Next Coast Ventures

Austin-based venture capital firm providing early-stage capital to high-growth startups in 'Next Coast' markets between traditional coasts, with thematic research-driven investment approach.

Austin, USA Est. 2016

Investment Requirements

Revenue (ARR)
Flexible
Deal Structure
Flexible
Target Industries
B2B Software Tech Services
Geographic Focus
North America

Company Overview

Next Coast Ventures

What They Buy

  • Target: Early-stage companies at critical development stage
  • Focus: Innovative software, retail, digital health, community-driven platforms
  • Geography: “Next Coast” markets between traditional coasts (Texas, Montana, Utah, Minnesota)
  • Structure: Early-stage venture capital with hands-on support
  • Philosophy: Built for entrepreneurs, by entrepreneurs
  • Themes: Future of work, demographic shifts, emerging markets

Recent Major Investments

  • Everly Health: Digital health diagnostics (20M+ lives served)
  • ICON: 3D-printed homes ($451M total raised, Tiger Global led)
  • Enboarder: Employee onboarding platform ($32M Series B)
  • Diligent Robotics: Hospital automation solutions
  • UpEquity: Home buying platform
  • Workweek: Business media platform

Track Record

  • Founded: 2016 in Austin, Texas
  • Leadership: Michael Smerklo (Co-Founder & Managing Director, search fund hall of fame)
  • Scale: $500M+ assets under management across three funds
  • Fund III: $195M raised for early-stage tech businesses
  • Portfolio: 30+ companies in first fund, 50+ total investments
  • Support: 150+ expert network, dedicated platform team, company building playbooks

Portfolio Companies

Everly Health
Digital health diagnostic services (serves 20M+ lives, 250+ enterprise customers)
ICON
3D-printed homes builder ($451M total equity raised)
Diligent Robotics
Hospital automation robotics
UpEquity
Home buying platform
Workweek
Business media platform
Enboarder
Employee onboarding platform ($32M Series B)