The Rise of Frontier Tech: Crosscut Ventures and the Future of Investment
March 19, 2025, 5:43 pm
Location: United States, California, West Hollywood
Employees: 11-50
Founded date: 2019
Total raised: $69M
In the heart of Los Angeles, a quiet revolution is brewing. Crosscut Ventures, a seed-stage venture capital firm, is at the forefront of this change. Founded in 2008, the firm has carved a niche in the bustling Southern California tech ecosystem. With a focus on early-stage investments, Crosscut is not just about capital; it’s about building a community of innovators.
Brian Garrett, co-founder and managing director, embodies the spirit of this venture. With over two decades of experience, he has witnessed the evolution of the tech landscape. His journey began with a vision: to catalyze the Southern California tech ecosystem. Today, that vision has blossomed into a thriving network of over 170 companies, attracting more than $7.2 billion in follow-on capital.
Crosscut’s investment thesis has evolved significantly since its inception. Initially focused on Adtech and eCommerce, the firm has expanded its horizons. Now, it embraces a broader spectrum of industries, including energy, climate, and frontier technology. This shift reflects a growing recognition of the urgent challenges facing humanity. Garrett believes that the next wave of innovation will come from sectors that push the boundaries of technology. This includes space exploration, advanced manufacturing, and sustainable energy solutions.
The firm’s success stories are a testament to its strategic foresight. One standout investment is Umbra Space, a company revolutionizing satellite technology. With a focus on synthetic aperture radar, Umbra has grown rapidly, nearing unicorn status. This success is not an isolated incident. Crosscut has backed companies like Pearl, which is transforming dental diagnostics through AI. These investments highlight the firm’s commitment to supporting visionary entrepreneurs tackling complex problems.
Crosscut’s approach is rooted in community. The firm has built a robust network that connects founders with resources and expertise. This network is a vital differentiator in a crowded market. By fostering relationships, Crosscut positions itself as a partner rather than just a financier. This hands-on approach allows the firm to add value beyond capital, helping entrepreneurs navigate the challenges of scaling their businesses.
However, the journey has not been without challenges. The venture capital landscape is fraught with uncertainty. Garrett emphasizes the importance of patience and resilience. In a field where success is often measured in years, maintaining confidence can be daunting. Yet, it is this very perseverance that has defined Crosscut’s journey. The firm has learned to embrace failures as part of the process, focusing on the relationships built along the way.
Looking ahead, Crosscut is poised for further growth. The firm is launching a new investment platform aimed at later-stage rounds in frontier tech. This initiative will connect mission-aligned investors with transformative projects. By expanding its focus, Crosscut aims to play a pivotal role in the next wave of technological advancement.
The landscape of venture capital is shifting. As new players enter the arena, the need for differentiation becomes paramount. Crosscut’s commitment to community-building and support for Southern California’s talent sets it apart. The firm’s history of successful investments and its deep-rooted connections within the ecosystem position it well for future success.
In the broader context, the rise of frontier technology reflects a global trend. Industries are increasingly recognizing the need for innovation to address pressing challenges. From climate change to energy sustainability, the stakes have never been higher. Crosscut’s focus on these sectors aligns with a growing demand for solutions that can drive meaningful change.
As the firm continues to evolve, its impact on the Southern California tech ecosystem will be closely watched. The next decade promises to be a transformative period, with Crosscut Ventures at the helm. By investing in the pioneers of tomorrow, the firm is not just funding businesses; it is shaping the future.
In conclusion, Crosscut Ventures stands as a beacon of innovation in the venture capital landscape. With a commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and a focus on frontier technology, the firm is well-positioned to navigate the complexities of the modern market. As it embarks on new initiatives and expands its reach, the potential for impact is immense. The journey is just beginning, and the possibilities are limitless. In the world of venture capital, Crosscut is not just a player; it is a game-changer.
Brian Garrett, co-founder and managing director, embodies the spirit of this venture. With over two decades of experience, he has witnessed the evolution of the tech landscape. His journey began with a vision: to catalyze the Southern California tech ecosystem. Today, that vision has blossomed into a thriving network of over 170 companies, attracting more than $7.2 billion in follow-on capital.
Crosscut’s investment thesis has evolved significantly since its inception. Initially focused on Adtech and eCommerce, the firm has expanded its horizons. Now, it embraces a broader spectrum of industries, including energy, climate, and frontier technology. This shift reflects a growing recognition of the urgent challenges facing humanity. Garrett believes that the next wave of innovation will come from sectors that push the boundaries of technology. This includes space exploration, advanced manufacturing, and sustainable energy solutions.
The firm’s success stories are a testament to its strategic foresight. One standout investment is Umbra Space, a company revolutionizing satellite technology. With a focus on synthetic aperture radar, Umbra has grown rapidly, nearing unicorn status. This success is not an isolated incident. Crosscut has backed companies like Pearl, which is transforming dental diagnostics through AI. These investments highlight the firm’s commitment to supporting visionary entrepreneurs tackling complex problems.
Crosscut’s approach is rooted in community. The firm has built a robust network that connects founders with resources and expertise. This network is a vital differentiator in a crowded market. By fostering relationships, Crosscut positions itself as a partner rather than just a financier. This hands-on approach allows the firm to add value beyond capital, helping entrepreneurs navigate the challenges of scaling their businesses.
However, the journey has not been without challenges. The venture capital landscape is fraught with uncertainty. Garrett emphasizes the importance of patience and resilience. In a field where success is often measured in years, maintaining confidence can be daunting. Yet, it is this very perseverance that has defined Crosscut’s journey. The firm has learned to embrace failures as part of the process, focusing on the relationships built along the way.
Looking ahead, Crosscut is poised for further growth. The firm is launching a new investment platform aimed at later-stage rounds in frontier tech. This initiative will connect mission-aligned investors with transformative projects. By expanding its focus, Crosscut aims to play a pivotal role in the next wave of technological advancement.
The landscape of venture capital is shifting. As new players enter the arena, the need for differentiation becomes paramount. Crosscut’s commitment to community-building and support for Southern California’s talent sets it apart. The firm’s history of successful investments and its deep-rooted connections within the ecosystem position it well for future success.
In the broader context, the rise of frontier technology reflects a global trend. Industries are increasingly recognizing the need for innovation to address pressing challenges. From climate change to energy sustainability, the stakes have never been higher. Crosscut’s focus on these sectors aligns with a growing demand for solutions that can drive meaningful change.
As the firm continues to evolve, its impact on the Southern California tech ecosystem will be closely watched. The next decade promises to be a transformative period, with Crosscut Ventures at the helm. By investing in the pioneers of tomorrow, the firm is not just funding businesses; it is shaping the future.
In conclusion, Crosscut Ventures stands as a beacon of innovation in the venture capital landscape. With a commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and a focus on frontier technology, the firm is well-positioned to navigate the complexities of the modern market. As it embarks on new initiatives and expands its reach, the potential for impact is immense. The journey is just beginning, and the possibilities are limitless. In the world of venture capital, Crosscut is not just a player; it is a game-changer.