TCP Venture Capital

Baltimore has fewer early-stage technology funds than some other cities, and TCP Venture Capital positions itself as one that works in and for the city. The firm is based in Baltimore, Maryland, and describes itself as an early-stage, technology-focused venture capital firm that partners with entrepreneurs to build great businesses.

Focus on unusual technology

TCP says its attention is on unique applications of technology. It is also clear about what it does not fund: franchises, brick and mortar operations and online retail sales are outside its interests. Businesses matching its stated investment interests are invited to send a short note about their business, and the firm asks applicants to allow a few business days for a reply.

The Propel Baltimore Fund

One of its vehicles is the Propel Baltimore Fund, which invests in early-stage technology companies that are willing to locate in Baltimore. According to the firm, the fund addresses a critical need for more early-stage capital in the city, encourages more entrepreneurial activity, creates more high-paying jobs and helps Baltimore realize its potential as a destination for growing businesses. That civic purpose is a clear difference from funds that invest wherever a company happens to be.

Support during early rounds

A portfolio company quoted on the site credits TCP with believing in its vision and team at the very beginning, and with providing leadership at an important moment and helping to galvanize early financing rounds. The firm itself describes its approach as using extensive experience and industry knowledge to help companies reach their goals.

Team experience

TCP says its managers have over one hundred and forty years of combined experience. The partner running the firm is described as an experienced venture professional with deep skills in structuring, negotiating and executing transactions, having closed over seventy deals in a career that included private finance and investment banking work in technology mergers and public offerings. Other members come from Maryland's entrepreneurial support scene, including state technology development programs and incubators, and from business school teaching in biotechnology commercialization and technology start-up work.

Who should apply

Early-stage founders building technology in Maryland, or willing to relocate to Baltimore, are the firm's clearest match.

TCP Venture Capital is a venture capital firm in Baltimore, Maryland. It backs early-stage technology companies and works alongside their founders as they build the business. Its stated interest is in unusual applications of technology.

Services

• Early-stage investment: funding for young technology companies that fit one of its investment themes.
• Propel Baltimore Fund: a vehicle for investing in early-stage technology firms willing to locate in Baltimore City.
• Hands-on partnership: leadership and support during a company's early financing rounds, as described by a portfolio company.

Customers and markets

Technology entrepreneurs, mainly at an early stage. The firm says it does not invest in franchises, physical shops or online retail.

Key facts

• Based in: Baltimore, Maryland, United States
• Team: the partners together have over 140 years of experience
• Local aim: more early-stage capital, entrepreneurial activity and skilled jobs in Baltimore
• Leadership: the managing partner has a background in investment banking and private finance