Geek Ventures, a fund that specializes in backing immigrant founders, is raising a second fund | TechCrunch
Jan 28, 2025 - techcrunch.com
Geek Ventures, founded in 2021 by Ihar Mahaniok, is raising a second fund, as indicated by a recent SEC filing. The firm focuses on investing in early-stage immigrant founders, with a particular interest in SaaS, hardware, and deep tech sectors. Mahaniok, who immigrated from Belarus, previously highlighted the challenges immigrants face in the venture ecosystem, prompting him to establish Geek Ventures. The firm initially raised a $23 million debut fund and has invested in over 60 companies, including AI developer Spice AI and networking platform Saturday.
The new Fund II has raised $9 million so far, with no specified target amount. The first sale was registered on January 13th. Geek Ventures is part of a growing trend of venture firms targeting immigrant founders, alongside others like Unshackled Ventures and One Way Ventures. Ihar Mahaniok declined to comment on the new fund.
Key takeaways:
Geek Ventures is raising a Fund II, with $9 million raised so far according to an SEC filing.
The firm was founded in 2021 by Ihar Mahaniok and focuses on investing in early-stage immigrant founders.
Geek Ventures has made more than 60 investments to date, including companies like Spice AI and Saturday.
The firm targets sectors such as SaaS, hardware, and deep tech.
