Summary

Stonks is a technology platform creating a network of investors and accelerators through live demo day events. For the first time, individual angels have access to premier events from top accelerators including Techstars, Plug & Play, and 500 Global. Stonks recently launched a YCombinator Access Fund through which the team will invest into the top startups in YC’s Summer 2022 cohort.

Background

Stonks recently launched a Stonks YC Access Fund through which they deployed $50K checks into 35 startups coming out of YCombinator’s (YC) Summer 2022 cohort (). YC has a notable reputation for being a top tier, early stage accelerator due to the competitive nature of the program and their success in funding, mentoring and guiding early stage founders. While each cohort consists of a few hundred companies, the Stonks YC Access Fund invested in the top 35 startups based on their early traction, proven product-market fit and exceptional team dynamics.

Why Cashmere Fund Invested:

Thesis of investing in YCombinator:

Since 2005, YC has brought together biannual cohorts of startups in order to support talented founders through funding and mentorship. To date, it has funded over 3,500 startups, assembled more than 9,000 founders, and attained a collective of companies with a combined valuation nearing $1T. It’s no secret that YC is featured as one of the most competitive and successful accelerator programs for early stage founders.

Impressive Team and Network:

Stonks Founder and YC Access Fund GP, Ali Moiz, has demonstrated success in launching two startups, Peanut Labs and StreamLabs, and as a veteran angel investor in AngelList, Gumroad, and Jar. Since launching Stonks in 2021, Ali has built the platform to 25K+ accredited investors and raised $15m from investors such as a16z, 500 Global, Yes VC and Matrix Partners. Ali’s experience combined with help from Adam Hardej, Head of Private Markets at Stonks, positions the team well to manage and deploy the Stonks YC Access Fund.

Aligned Vision of Using Networks to Break Barriers:

Stonks was created because fundraising is often painful and time-consuming, yet a necessary part of building a startup for founders. The platform allows for more connections to be made between early stage startups and investors, ultimately increasing the number of startups who are able to acquire funding. Sweater shares a vision of democratizing access and creating a more equitable venture landscape - with 0% carry and management fees, our team sees this as a fantastic opportunity to partner with a platform that aligns with Sweater’s mission.