Alumni Ventures launches Fund for AI-Native Startups

Venture capital firm Alumni Ventures has launched the AI First Fund, aimed at investing in startups built entirely around artificial intelligence technologies. The fund will focus on companies that use language models, autonomous agents, and proprietary data as core components of their business from inception.

According to Alumni Ventures, the new fund will concentrate on applications of AI across workplace productivity, scientific research, industry-specific solutions, and infrastructure development. These areas include generative AI assistants, AI-powered simulations, vertical market automation, and hardware and software systems that support the broader AI ecosystem.

Founder and CEO Mike Collins said the fund is intended to support founders building AI-driven business models from the ground up rather than adapting existing products to incorporate AI. Managing Partner Ray Wu added that the strategy will draw on the firm’s proprietary deal flow, startup support services, and partnerships with other venture capital firms to identify early-stage opportunities.

The firm plans to leverage its network of alumni, including PhDs, experienced entrepreneurs, and accelerator graduates, to identify talent and provide portfolio companies with operational and strategic support. Alumni Ventures has previously invested in AI-focused companies such as Lambda Labs, Cohere, Patlytics, and Precision Neuroscience.

Founded in 2014, Alumni Ventures manages more than $1.4 billion in committed capital from over 11,000 accredited investors, with a portfolio of more than 1,600 companies across various sectors.