Collide Capital

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Overview

Collide Capital is a prominent venture capital firm focusing on early-stage technology and innovation-driven startups, emphasizing inclusion and diversity among its portfolio companies. Founded in 2021 by Brian Hollins and Aaron Samuels, Collide Capital is headquartered in Brooklyn, New York, with an additional office in San Francisco. The firm manages over $170 million in assets, largely from two key funds, Fund I and the recently closed $95 million Fund II. Collide's vision is particularly focused on fintech, sustainable supply chain, and future-of-work sectors.

Recent Developments

  • April 9, 2026: Collide Capital announced the closing of its $95 million Fund II. This new fund expands the firm's reach in fintech and future-of-work startups, increasing its total assets under management to over $170 million. The fund aims to back up to 30 companies with investments ranging from $1 million to $3 million.
  • January 26, 2026: Collide Capital's portfolio company, Jelou, has made significant strides in transforming WhatsApp into a global banking platform, showcasing Collide's focus on innovative solutions in the fintech industry.
  • July 16, 2025: The Maryland Technology Development Corporation (TEDCO) selected Collide Capital as one of the managers for the state's SSBCI funding, earmarked for supporting underrepresented communities in technology innovation.
  • June 23, 2025: Portfolio company Gemist launched new tech-driven solutions for its jewelry platform, emphasizing digital advancement in traditional industries.
  • August 5, 2025: Fintech venture Creditop raised $3.7 million to innovate cardless credit access solutions, reflecting Collide Capital’s strategic investment in financial inclusivity technologies.

Company Information

AttributeInformation
Founding Date2021
HeadquartersBrooklyn, New York; San Francisco, California
FoundersAaron Samuels, Brian Hollins
RevenueNot publicly disclosed
ProfitsNot publicly disclosed
Key InvestorsUC Regents, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, Accolade Partners, Fairview Capital
IndustryVenture Capital
Number of EmployeesNot publicly disclosed

Early History

Collide Capital was established amidst a growing need for greater diversity and inclusion within the venture capital landscape. Founders Aaron Samuels and Brian Hollins capitalized on their extensive networks and experiences with AfroTech and BLCK VC, which are among the largest Black tech ecosystems. They aimed to support underrepresented founders by providing not just capital, but also mentorship and strategic connections. The firm's inaugural fund, Fund I, raised $66 million, setting a foundation for future growth and emphasizing their mission to activate strong founder networks and provide pathways to institutional capital.

Company Profile and Achievements

Collide Capital deploys its financial resources across multiple key sectors, including fintech, supply chain technology, and automation-driven future-of-work technologies. By focusing on pre-seed to Series A funding rounds, the firm ensures that early-stage startups have the capital needed to scale.

  • Notable Achievements:
    • Secured $66 million in oversubscribed Fund I, pioneering as one of the largest Black-owned venture funds with backing from tech giants like Amazon, Alphabet, and Twitter.
    • Successfully closed $95 million Fund II, significantly broadening investment reach.
    • Portfolio includes companies like Butter (acquired by Grub Market) and innovative players like Revi, Culina Health, and Gemist.
    • Launched "Collide Campus" in 2022, which mentors aspiring students in venture capital, placed over 50 students in high-profile positions.

Current Operations and Market Position

Collide Capital distinguishes itself by maintaining a strong social mission of supporting diverse and underrepresented founders. The firm believes that those closest to the problems are best positioned to devise solutions. Its current deployment strategy involves targeting fintech and future-of-work technologies, leveraging its unique "Gen-Z buyer lens" to anticipate emerging trends in automation and data-driven applications. By tailoring investments to founders who are deeply connected with their communities and persistent about innovation, Collide Capital is aiming to capture meaningful market share and maintain competitive advantages through sustained relationships with industry leaders and tech innovators.

Conclusion

Collide Capital is effectively making its mark in the venture capital industry by combining financial investments with a socially conscious approach. This dual focus not only propels their portfolio companies towards success but also challenges traditional funding paradigms by advocating for diversity and inclusion. As it continues to expand and innovate, Collide Capital is poised to make substantial contributions to the tech industry, particularly in areas requiring transformative change and disruption. In the coming years, their strategic focus on underrepresented communities and emerging tech sectors will likely further their influence and solidify their position as leaders in both venture funding and social equity.