Horizon Ventures has invested in early to mid-stage information technology companies which exhibit the hallmarks of most successful startups:

• Great teams – a core group of experienced entrepreneurs with the conviction that they can achieve ambitious but realistic goals
• Differentiated technology – innovative products and novel ideas that create real value for customers
• Crystal-clear focus – deep understanding of specific markets and customers is key

OUR MARKETS

Communications and Systems

More new multi-billion dollar markets have appeared in this category over the past decade than in any other (e.g., NAS, WiFi, multi-gigabit Ethernet switching, security appliances); the rate of technology innovation continues to be staggering. Our enthusiasm is for companies built to provide customer-focused innovation.

Component Technologies

Bringing technology from the lab environment into large-scale commercial production is the critical skill that enables Silicon Valley to constantly reinvent itself. In addition to semiconductor chip applications, MEMS, RFID, nanotech, display technologies, and semiconductor manufacturing equipment are all areas where we have experience.

Healthcare IT

There is an impending avalanche of aging baby boomers in need of healthcare services and an increasingly complex payment system. On the supply side, the nearly flat growth in healthcare professionals is no match to handle the workload. It is for this reason, we have invested in companies that will improve productivity in the healthcare industry.

Software Applications for Business

As the IT industry has matured, a small number of software platforms have evolved to dominate the current landscape. Within this increasingly rigid environment, we believe there remain targeted solutions to augment, extend, and connect relevant constituents.

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Although we have occasionally pursued opportunities outside of these areas of focus, we have preferred to invest where we have prior experience. For that reason, we do not invest in biotech, drug development and discovery, or retail businesses. We avoid companies with low competitive barriers to entry, including those businesses built around "first mover" advantage or consumer marketing.

We have syndicated even the earliest rounds with other like-minded VCs who plan to actively participate in management.

Our Venture Partners are experts from our focus areas and can help refine business plans and better define markets of our portfolio.