Draper Associates
Draper Associates is the global leader in early-stage venture capital. Founded in 1985 by Tim Draper, the firm has built a reputation for encouraging entrepreneurs to drive their businesses to greatness, to transform industries with new technologies, and to build platforms for extraordinary growth, jobs and wealth creation. The firm seeks out disruptive innovations and visionary founders, often looking for companies that have the potential to transform industries. Draper Associates has invested in companies including Tesla, SpaceX, Robinhood, Baidu, Twitch, Cruise, Coinbase, and other industry unicorns long before they became household names.
ABOUT DRAPER ASSOCIATES
Draper Associates is a global venture capital firm for industry defining companies that show exceptional promise.
As one of the most prominent venture capital firms in Silicon Valley, the firm targets startups with the potential to create new categories or revolutionize existing industries.
The firm emphasizes a hands-on approach, often working closely with entrepreneurs to help them navigate challenges and scale their businesses.
The firm has invested in industry-defining companies such as Tesla, Skype, Baidu, SpaceX, Twitch, Cruise, Robinhood, Coinbase, and Webflow.
FOCUS AREAS
Cryptocurrencies & Blockchain.
Draper Associates was among the earliest venture firms to bet big on Bitcoin and blockchain-based platforms. The firm has invested in Coinbase, Ledger, Tezos, and Bancor.
Smart Contracts & NFTs.
Beyond collectibles, Draper Associates sees smart contracts and NFTs as infrastructure for new digital economies.
Artificial Intelligence.
Companies using AI to automate decision-making, improve diagnostics, streamline operations, or personalize customer experiences.
Healthcare & Biotechnology.
The firm invests in platforms that analyze massive health datasets to detect conditions earlier and personalize care.
Financial Technology.
Draper focuses on financial inclusion, cross-border payments, and decentralized banking, with investments in Robinhood, Uphold, and Unstoppable Domains.
Surveillance & Civic Tech.
These include startups using computer vision, drones, or smart sensors to enhance public safety, governance transparency, or urban planning.