Announcing Ekistic Ventures

By Brett Goldstein & David Spielfogel

Today we are excited to launch Ekistic Ventures, a new firm committed to building a portfolio of companies that will solve critical urban problems.

Why are we doing this, and how are we different?

First, we are not just another VC firm. Our team brings experience from local, state and national government as well as the private sector, having seen the shortfalls of each in solving complex problems alone. We’ve seen a lot of pitches over the years, and we know how good ideas never see the light of day because the entrepreneur or start-up doesn’t understand the market landscape or the realities of succeeding in the urban environment.

Second, in addition to writing a check we also commit our time and networks to build meaningful companies for the long haul. That’s why we only work with a small handful of companies each year, and why we so closely tie our success to the success of our portfolio companies.

We know we don’t have all the answers, but by applying our deep knowledge of technology, data science and urban governance, we can help the best entrepreneurs and early stage companies grow their ideas into real solutions and help them deliver those interventions at scale.

From our base in Chicago, we will seek out innovative ideas that can change lives. If you have a new solution to a complex problem, we want to work with you.