Co Ventures

Co Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Sydney, Australia, dedicated to supporting pre-seed stage software-led companies with global aspirations. Founded in 2023, the firm distinguishes itself by embracing a 'belief before proof' philosophy, providing crucial capital and comprehensive support to founders at the earliest, often raw, stages of their entrepreneurial journey. They focus on identifying potential in ideas and individuals that may not yet fit traditional venture capital patterns.

The firm's unique approach involves more than just financial investment; it acts as a collaborative platform and a network of founders, investors, and operators. This 'Co Community' is designed to compound value through shared capital, context, and conviction, fostering an ecosystem where participants grow together. Co Ventures offers strategic guidance from experienced operators who have successfully scaled companies from inception to Series B and beyond, along with active introductions to crucial US and international networks.

Leadership at Co Ventures includes General Partner Maxine Minter and Partner Alexey Mitko. Maxine Minter is recognised as Australia's first solo female General Partner and the founder of the country's first dedicated pre-seed fund. Her extensive background spans operating, angel investing in both the US and Australia, and founding Co Lab, a platform connecting founders with executive coaches. Alexey Mitko is an operator, founder, and angel investor with a notable track record, having helped scale Canva to a global team and co-founded Eucalyptus. Together, they bring a blend of capital and hands-on perspective, ensuring founders receive tailored support.

Co Ventures is committed to empowering Australian founders who possess the grit, clarity, and ambition to build global companies from day one. The firm actively seeks out software-led ventures that are built for international scale, explicitly excluding investments in hardware, biotech, or companies burdened by high regulatory hurdles. By nurturing these early-stage companies, Co Ventures aims to strengthen the foundational ecosystem for Australian startups, propelling them towards global success and contributing to the creation of future 'unicorn' companies.