Starting Line

2018

Founded

25

Investments

United States

Offices

Venture Fund

Investor Type

About

Starting Line is a Chicago-based venture capital firm dedicated to supporting early-stage consumer startups that aim to make products and services accessible to a broad audience. Founded in 2018 by Ezra Galston, the firm has raised three funds: $17 million in 2018, $30 million in 2021, and $30 million in 2023. Their investment philosophy centers on partnering with founders who are deeply committed to reshaping the world and are willing to take substantial personal risks to achieve their vision.

Notable investments include Cameo, which achieved a billion-dollar valuation, and Made In Cookware, endorsed by celebrity chefs. Starting Line emphasizes transparency by open-sourcing their operating manual, quarterly letters, and mental health policy, reflecting their commitment to being unrelenting in their pursuit of founders' success.

Portfolio Companies

Cameo, Made In Cookware, Unchained Capital, Chowbus, SpotHero

Gepgraphic Focus

United States

Key Differentiators

Transparency, Founder-Centric Approach, Commitment to Accessible Innovation

Thypical Investment Size

$1 million–$3 million

Total Funds Raised

$77 million

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Apps

FinTech

Software

IoT (Internet of Things)

Health & Wellness

PetTech

Seed

United States