Draper Associates
Draper Associates is a global leader in early-stage venture capital, renowned for backing visionary entrepreneurs and disruptive technologies. Founded in 1985 by Tim Draper, the firm has cultivated a legacy of helping founders scale businesses, transform industries, and create long-term growth, jobs, and wealth. Draper Associates focuses on companies with the potential to reshape markets and drive innovation, seeking out bold ideas and transformative technologies. Over the years, the firm has made early investments in some of the world’s most successful companies, including Tesla, SpaceX, Robinhood, Baidu, Twitch, Cruise, and Coinbase, identifying and supporting these industry leaders long before they became household names. Draper Associates continues to leverage its global network, entrepreneurial expertise, and strategic guidance to fuel the next generation of high-impact startups.
ABOUT DRAPER ASSOCIATES
Draper Associates is a global venture capital firm focused on industry-defining startups with exceptional growth potential.
Based in Silicon Valley, the firm targets companies that have the ability to create entirely new categories or revolutionize existing industries.
Draper Associates takes a hands-on approach, working closely with entrepreneurs to navigate challenges, scale operations, and achieve long-term success.
The firm has backed transformative companies such as Tesla, Skype, Baidu, SpaceX, Twitch, Cruise, Robinhood, Coinbase, and Webflow.
FOCUS AREAS
Cryptocurrencies & Blockchain – An early adopter in the space, Draper Associates has invested in Bitcoin, Coinbase, Ledger, Tezos, and Bancor, supporting blockchain technologies and decentralized platforms.
Smart Contracts & NFTs – The firm views smart contracts and NFTs not just as digital collectibles but as infrastructure for emerging digital economies.
Artificial Intelligence – Investments target AI companies that automate decision-making, enhance diagnostics, streamline operations, and personalize user experiences.
Healthcare & Biotechnology – Draper backs platforms leveraging big data in health, enabling earlier detection of conditions and more personalized care solutions.
Financial Technology – The firm focuses on financial inclusion, decentralized banking, and cross-border payments, with investments in Robinhood, Uphold, and Unstoppable Domains.
Surveillance & Civic Tech – Draper Associates supports startups using computer vision, drones, and smart sensors to improve public safety, urban planning, and governance transparency.