Slauson & Co, an early stage venture capital firm rooted in economic inclusion, has announced the close of its $100 million Fund II.
The fund is significant increase from its previous $75 million fund and signals continued investor appetite for inclusive venture capital despite economic challenges.
Focus on Representation and Inclusion
Founded by Ajay Relan and Austin Clements in 2020, Slauson & Co. has always championed diversity, backing early-stage companies across sectors such as SaaS and consumer technology.
“We invest in everybody,” Relan told TechCrunch, adding that the firm wants to make sure all perspectives are included in its products and services.
The firm reports that 95% of its portfolio companies are led by founders of color, with over half of our founding teams led or co-led by a woman. These companies have gone on to raise hundreds of millions of dollars after Slauson & Co.’s initial investment.
“Toughest fundraising environment in 20 years”
Despite facing a tougher fundraising climate in 2024, with a downturn in corporate diversity initiatives, Slauson & Co. succeeded by proving the financial viability of their inclusive investment thesis.
“We began ramping up for Fund II during the toughest fundraising environment in 20 years,” Slauson & Co. stated in their press release.
“We had hundreds of conversations with potential investors with numerous rejections along the way… Despite the challenges, the result is exactly what we hoped for: a group of aligned LPs who share our values and see the massive opportunity ahead of us.”
Strategic Investments and Long-Term Vision
Fund II, which will distribute investments between $500,000 and $2 million, is expected to support 30 startups over the next three years.
Slauson & Co. has already begun deploying capital from this new fund, further strengthening its ecosystem through mentorship, an accelerator program, and networking opportunities.
The firm remains focused on creating a standard in venture capital that amplifies diverse voices and disrupts traditional investment patterns.
“If we do our jobs right, others with deeper pockets will follow our lead,” Relan said, optimistic about the future of inclusive investment.
Feature Image Credit: Slauson & Co
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