When Ironspring Ventures launched in 2020 to back startups in industrial sectors like construction and manufacturing, it was one of very few early-stage venture firms paying attention to these capital-intensive sectors. Now, the firm is doubling down on its initial commitment.

The Austin, Texas-based firm raised $100 million for its second fund, focusing exclusively on industrial startups. This marks a significant increase from the firm’s $61 million debut fund that closed in 2021. The latest raise has enabled Ironspring to expand its team by hiring its first principal, Colleen Konetzke, and a head of platform, Stephanie Volk. With Fund II, the firm plans to invest in 20 startups, supporting four to five companies annually.

The Gap in Venture Capital for Industrial Markets

“What we saw back then was as true as we see today,” Ironspring co-founder and general partner, Ty Findley, told TechCrunch. “There is a big gap in the venture industry that deeply studies and has genuine GP market fit with these industrial markets and can help them navigate a pretty challenging go-to-market process. When you really roll these industries up, they are over half of the U.S. GDP. My strong opinion is, we as a country simply cannot afford to let the U.S. get left behind.”

Findley refers to industries including manufacturing, construction, transportation, and energy. The firm backed 16 companies in its first fund, among them Solvento, a payments infrastructure startup for trucking companies in Mexico; OneRail, a last-mile logistics startup; and Prokeep, a communications platform for distributors.

Investment Strategy and Fund Allocation

Ironspring has already backed six companies with Fund II and has deployed about a quarter of the fund. Findley notes that the main difference between Fund I and Fund II is the additional capital, which allows the firm to write larger checks, ranging from $2 million to $4 million. This financial capability helps Ironspring stay competitive as seed rounds have grown larger.

Findley expresses enthusiasm for having a fresh pool of capital to invest now, given the macroeconomic tailwinds affecting the industries they focus on. Supply chain constraints that began during COVID-19 persist, and new challenges have emerged due to conflicts in the Middle East. Policies like the Inflation Reduction Act and CHIPS and Science Act are also bringing attention and government funding to these sectors. Additionally, advancements in AI could significantly impact these industries.

“We are seeing more top-tier tech and innovation talent flood into these industries,” Findley said. “Whether they are recirculating from recent tech unicorns, or just other tech talent that simply wants to make a big impact on their career that’s not based on photo sharing or adtech or chasing the next crypto coin, that is what the macro trends are.”

Case Study: GoodShip

GoodShip, a freight orchestration and procurement platform started by former operators at Convoy, exemplifies the type of company Ironspring is keen to support. Ironspring co-led the firm’s 2023 seed round alongside Chicago Ventures and re-upped at the Series A earlier this year.

While Ironspring was one of the first early-stage firms focused on industrial startups, the space has become more crowded as deep-pocketed firms like Andreessen Horowitz, General Catalyst, and Bessemer have entered. However, Findley views the entrance of these name-brand firms not as competition but as a positive development.

“I’m a believer that the more capital flowing into these industries, the better,” Findley said. “Those are great allies. We wouldn’t be able to do our job at the seed stage if we didn’t have great downstream growth.”

Findley emphasizes the collaborative nature required for these types of startups to grow successfully, appreciating the different perspectives other firms can bring to their portfolio companies. Ironspring even invites these other firms onto its podcast, Heavy Hitters, to create a valuable resource for their portfolio companies and beyond. Notable VCs such as Katherine Boyle, a general partner at a16z; Aaron Jacobson, a partner at NEA; and Lior Susan, the CEO and founder of Eclipse Ventures, have been featured.

Ironspring’s Unique Approach and Local Advantage

Findley believes Ironspring stands out among the growing competition due to its sector expertise and unique LP base. The firm’s LP base includes operators in the industries they invest in, such as owners of construction companies and manufacturing plants. These LPs can provide guidance and advice to companies and serve as potential customers.

Being based in Austin is also a significant asset for Ironspring, according to Findley. Contrary to the perception that Austin is merely an emerging tech hub, he points out that many of the industries Ironspring focuses on have deep roots in the area. With Tesla moving its headquarters to Austin and the recent approval of $6.4 billion from the infrastructure act for Samsung to build semiconductor chips there, the city has the right talent to drive the digital industrial revolution.

Findley’s commitment to ensuring that critical U.S. industries are not left behind is unwavering. “The U.S. can’t allow these critical industries to be left behind,” he said. “We are here for the long haul in ensuring that will never happen.”

Key Takeaways:

• Ironspring Ventures has raised $100 million for its second fund, significantly up from its $61 million debut fund.
• The firm focuses on capital-intensive industrial sectors such as manufacturing, construction, transportation, and energy.
• Ironspring plans to invest in 20 startups, writing checks between $2 million and $4 million.
• Supply chain constraints, government policies, and advancements in AI are creating favorable conditions for industrial startups.
• The firm’s unique LP base and location in Austin are key assets in its strategy.

With a fresh pool of capital and a strategic focus on industries vital to the U.S. economy, Ironspring Ventures is poised to make a significant impact on the industrial startup landscape. The firm’s approach, combining sector expertise and collaborative investment strategies, ensures that it remains a key player in fostering innovation in these critical sectors.

In an inspiring twist to the usual post-graduation story, 18-year-old best friends Christopher Fitzgerald and Nicholas Van Landschoot are trading summer fun for hard work in the world of startups. The recent high school graduates from Boulder, Colorado, have secured a $500,000 pre-seed investment from Varana Capital to launch their innovative venture, APIGen.

From High School Graduates to Startup Founders

High School Achievements:

• Christopher Fitzgerald: Valedictorian of a top-ranked high school in Boulder.
• Nicholas Van Landschoot: A programming prodigy tutoring college-level students since age 14.

While most of their peers are enjoying their last summer before the responsibilities of college or careers, Fitzgerald and Van Landschoot are immersed in the entrepreneurial grind. They have set up shop in a venture capital (VC) office in Boulder, focusing all their energy on APIGen, a startup that aims to simplify API creation through natural language processing.

Future Plans:

• Fitzgerald: Heading to Penn State in the fall.
• Van Landschoot: Delaying college to lead APIGen full-time.

The Birth of APIGen

The concept for APIGen blossomed from the duo’s shared passion for coding and their early exposure to the challenges of API development. The two met on their school’s debate team and quickly bonded over their love for technology. Their first collaborative project was a chatbot designed to facilitate data interaction, but they soon realized the uniqueness of their idea was limited. This realization led them to a pivotal insight about the complexities and difficulties of designing APIs.

“We discovered that creating APIs was cumbersome and not straightforward,” said Fitzgerald. “It was during this project that we decided to focus on simplifying API generation.”

With a prototype in hand, they began showcasing their idea to local programmers and industry professionals in Boulder, a city known for its vibrant tech community.

Securing Investment

Their perseverance paid off when they caught the attention of Philip Broenniman, the founder of Denver-based Varana Capital. Varana Capital, which has grown from a family office to a firm managing $400 million in assets under management (AUM), saw potential in the young founders’ vision. Initially planning to provide mentorship, Broenniman and his team were so impressed by the teens’ presentation that they decided to invest.

Investment Details:

• Initial Meeting: Aimed to provide guidance but ended with an investment offer.
• Term Sheet: $250,000 pre-seed money and $250,000 in a Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE).
• Support: Office space provided by Varana Capital.

Broenniman recalled, “We walked into the meeting intending to offer some advice, but their pitch was the best we had heard in years. Their insights were incredibly sharp for their age.”

The Vision for APIGen

APIGen’s mission is to develop a platform that allows users to create custom APIs using natural language prompts. This approach simplifies the complex process of API creation, making it accessible to users without extensive technical knowledge. The platform aims to serve various needs, from basic data connectors to intricate business logic integrations.

“We’re not just talking about simple data exchanges. Our goal is to generate code for APIs that incorporate complex functionalities and business logic,” explained Van Landschoot.

Potential Use Cases for APIGen:

• E-commerce: Create APIs that integrate web front ends with databases.
• IoT Devices: Develop APIs to control devices like drones and smart locks.
• Security: Generate APIs for face recognition and building security systems.

The founders envision a future where creating APIs is as simple as giving a verbal command. For instance, an e-commerce business could request an API to connect its online store to its inventory database, and APIGen would deliver a functional solution.

APIGen’s Capabilities:

Building a Community and Looking Ahead

Fitzgerald and Van Landschoot have quickly integrated into Boulder’s close-knit tech scene. They joined the local AI Meetup, which boasts over 1,400 members and received enthusiastic support from the community. Their early involvement and the positive reception of their product demos have been pivotal in building a network of supporters and potential users.

Despite facing stiff competition from established players like Salesforce’s MuleSoft and RapidAPI, the founders believe APIGen has a unique value proposition. Their approach to API creation, centered on natural language and tailored to specific user needs, sets them apart in the burgeoning API market.

Competition and Market Potential:

• Established Competitors: MuleSoft, RapidAPI.
• Market Size: $7 billion and growing.
• APIGen’s Niche: Simplified and customized API creation.

“We’re entering a competitive space, but we’re carving out our own niche,” said Fitzgerald. “The support we’ve received from the local community and the backing from Varana Capital give us confidence in our path forward.”

Overcoming Challenges and Next Steps

Although APIGen is still in its early stages, the founders are focused on refining their product. They are working tirelessly to develop a minimum viable product (MVP) and plan to release a beta version later this month. The feedback from this release will be crucial as they aim to attract their first set of users and demonstrate the platform’s capabilities.

Development Milestones:

• Current Status: Pre-MVP, working on beta release.
• Next Steps: Beta launch and user feedback.
• Future Plans: Expand functionality and market reach.

Broenniman, who will take a seat on APIGen’s board, is optimistic about the startup’s prospects. He highlights the founders’ ability to build a community around their idea and their potential to make significant returns on investment.

“APIGen is more than just a startup; it’s a partnership with Christopher and Nicholas. They are tapping into a massive market and have already shown they can rally support,” he said. “The potential for returns is remarkable.”

The Road Ahead

As Fitzgerald and Van Landschoot navigate their journey from high school graduates to startup entrepreneurs, they remain focused and determined. Their story is a testament to the power of youthful ambition and the vibrant support networks available in tech-centric communities like Boulder.

With their first major funding secured and a clear vision for APIGen, the young founders are poised to make a significant impact on the API development landscape. Their summer may be spent in an office rather than on the beach, but they are building something that could change the way businesses interact with technology.

As the tech world watches, these two young innovators are proving that with a compelling idea and the right support, age is just a number in the realm of entrepreneurship.

While Italy is known for its rich history and vibrant culture, it is not the first country that comes to mind when thinking of startup hubs in Europe. However, recent developments indicate that this might be changing. Italy ranks eighth in Europe in terms of venture capital investment, a position it is striving to improve with the introduction of the Italian Founders Fund (IFF).

Boosting Italian Startups

IFF has been established with a substantial commitment of €50 million to invest in about 25 promising companies. This new fund is not limited to any specific sector, aiming to be both founder-friendly and versatile, addressing various entrepreneurial pain points. Lorenzo Franzi, a founding partner of IFF, discussed the mission to support early-stage founders in Italy who struggle to find committed lead investors at critical pre-seed and seed stages.

Portfolio Growth and Strategic Goals

To date, IFF’s portfolio already includes four companies, with a fifth deal currently underway. Among these, the fund led a 2023 funding round for the HR tech startup Jet HR, following an investment in the customer research platform Glaut. The strategic direction of IFF focuses on several key areas:

• Key Hires and Commercial Expansion: IFF supports its portfolio companies in identifying and recruiting essential personnel, expanding business operations, and securing strategic partnerships.
• Hands-on Investment Approach: Unlike traditional angel investing, which can suffer from issues like limited analysis and undersized funding rounds, IFF brings structured and proactive support to its investments.

Current IFF Portfolio Highlights

Addressing Market Challenges

While IFF has set ambitious goals, Franzi acknowledges some limitations. High taxes and complex bureaucratic processes remain significant challenges that a private VC firm alone cannot mitigate. However, recent public initiatives aim to enhance Italy’s appeal and the competitiveness of its tech sector. Unlike state-backed entities like CDP Capital, IFF operates entirely with private funding, giving it the freedom to invest without geographic constraints.

This flexibility will be crucial as IFF plans to support Italian founders both domestically and abroad, and to attract foreign startups interested in the Italian market. The fund also aims to establish connections with foreign VC funds for co-investments in its portfolio, either initially or in subsequent funding rounds.

Global Connections and Local Impact

The influence of IFF extends beyond Italy’s borders. It supports Italian entrepreneurs with global aspirations, helping them to connect and compete on an international stage. Notable global Italian startups like Bending Spoons, known for popular apps like Evernote and Meetup, exemplify the potential of Italian innovation on the global market.

IFF’s Backers: A Broad Spectrum

• Diverse Backgrounds: IFF’s financial backers include approximately 100 Italian entrepreneurs from various sectors and generations.
• Shared Vision: These backers are united by a common goal—to establish Italy as a top location in Europe for launching and growing businesses.

Long-Term Vision and Management

Managed by KOINOS Capital, a private equity firm diversifying into venture capital, IFF is inspired by successful international examples such as the U.S.’s Founders Fund and France’s Galion.exe. These founder-led funds have proven effective in other markets, and IFF aims to replicate this success in Italy.

Conclusion

The creation of the Italian Founders Fund marks a significant step in the maturation of Italy’s startup ecosystem. While venture capital numbers are on the rise, there is still much work to be done. “Challenging the status quo on processes, speed, and an entrepreneur-focused mindset is essential,” Franzi emphasizes. With its comprehensive approach and strategic investments, IFF is poised to play a pivotal role in reshaping Italy’s position in the European startup landscape.

As businesses rapidly incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) into their operations, the prevailing belief is that younger, technologically adept employees will spearhead educating their senior managers on effectively harnessing these advanced tools. However, a recent study challenges this notion, especially concerning the use of generative AI technologies.

Study Details and Key Participants

The study was a collaborative effort involving scholars from prestigious institutions such as Harvard Business School, MIT, and Wharton, in partnership with Boston Consulting Group. The research focused on the interactions and experiences of junior employees with generative AI systems, particularly GPT-4, in real-world business scenarios.

Unexpected Findings from Junior Consultants

Contrary to expectations, the study revealed that junior employees, often presumed to be tech-savvy, might not be the best resources for guiding senior professionals in the effective use of emerging technologies like generative AI. The findings showed that the risk mitigation strategies proposed by these junior consultants frequently contradicted expert advice and lacked a deep understanding of AI’s capabilities.

Key Insights from the Study:

• Junior Consultants’ Tactics: The research highlighted that the strategies suggested by junior employees to alleviate seniors’ concerns about AI risks were often misaligned with expert recommendations. These tactics were more about altering human behavior than enhancing the AI system’s design.
• Focus on Short-term Solutions: Many recommendations were project-specific rather than aimed at broader organizational or industry-wide applications, suggesting a narrow scope of understanding.

In-depth Analysis of the Research Findings

1. Limited Technical Expertise The study found that junior consultants typically had minimal technical expertise in AI. Their recommendations were based more on general knowledge and less on a technical understanding of AI systems like GPT-4.

2. Risk Mitigation Approaches Junior employees tended to focus on immediate, surface-level solutions rather than systemic changes or in-depth strategies that could be more beneficial in the long run.

Challenges in Adopting Generative AI in Business

The rapid evolution of generative AI technologies presents significant challenges and opportunities for businesses. These AI systems can perform tasks such as engaging in detailed dialogues, responding to follow-up questions, and assisting in writing, analysis, and coding tasks. However, the study underscores the necessity of comprehensive AI governance and the need for expert input at all organizational levels.

Navigating AI Implementation Challenges:

• Top-down Governance: Effective AI implementation requires informed leadership rather than relying solely on the knowledge of digital natives within the organization.
• Expert Involvement: Incorporating AI experts into strategic planning and implementation processes is crucial to address potential risks and optimize AI usage.

Moving Forward: Recommendations for Effective AI Adoption

The findings advocate for a structured approach to AI adoption in corporate settings:

• Upskilling Programs: Develop extensive training programs to enhance the AI competence of employees across all levels.
• Leadership Roles: Senior professionals should take proactive roles in understanding and integrating new technologies to lead their teams effectively.
• Future-proofing Strategies: Businesses need to anticipate future technological advancements and their potential impacts on industry and internal operations.

Summary in Bullet Points

• Study Collaboration: Involvement of top academic institutions and Boston Consulting Group.
• Key Finding: Junior employees may not be ideal mentors for senior staff in AI adoption.
• Recommendations: Emphasize top-down governance, expert involvement, and comprehensive training.

This extensive study not only highlights a critical gap in the assumed capabilities of junior employees concerning AI but also sets the stage for rethinking how businesses should approach the integration of these powerful technologies into their workflows. Senior leaders are encouraged to take a more active role in understanding and guiding AI initiatives to ensure that their organizations can fully leverage AI’s capabilities responsibly and effectively.