Airtree Ventures is a Sydney-based venture capital firm founded in 2014, known for backing some of Australia’s most successful technology companies, including Canva and Airwallex. The firm was launched with the goal of transforming Australia’s startup ecosystem, which at the time had only a small number of tech companies of scale. Today, Airtree is recognized as one of the leading players in Australia’s venture capital market, with a portfolio that includes several of the country’s “kangaroo-nicorns” — startups valued at over $1 billion.
Airtree invests across seed, early-stage, and follow-on rounds, targeting high-growth companies in technology sectors with the potential for global scale. While the firm maintains a broad tech mandate, it is known for identifying and supporting Australian startups with world-class product, engineering, and go-to-market capabilities.
Its portfolio spans fintech, SaaS, consumer platforms, and enterprise technology.
In August 2025, Airtree announced the close of its fifth fund at $420 million. More than half of the capital came from international institutional investors, a significant shift from less than 10 percent in the prior fund.
Backers include MetLife Investment Management, Harvard Management Company, the University of Wisconsin’s endowment, and major Australian superannuation funds. The fund will be split between seed investments in new startups and follow-on capital for existing portfolio companies.
The close comes as global investors increasingly view Australia as a viable source of high-growth technology ventures, despite a muted local IPO market.
Leadership
Airtree’s leadership includes partners John Henderson and Craig Blair, alongside a team of experienced investors and operators. Henderson has been a vocal advocate for Australia’s growing tech ecosystem, noting the country’s expansion from just six sizable tech companies in 2014 to 43 unicorns in 2025.
Investment Strategy
Airtree’s strategy combines early conviction with sustained support, aiming to be a long-term partner for founders.
The firm is focused on identifying standout Australian startups early, providing them with capital, expertise, and access to global networks to help them scale internationally. By allocating capital to both new investments and existing portfolio companies, Airtree seeks to maximize impact across its ecosystem.
Notable Investments
The firm has backed some of Australia’s most prominent tech companies, including:
It has also supported a range of emerging ventures positioned to become the next generation of Australian tech leaders.
Notable Exits
Airtree’s portfolio companies have achieved significant exits, including Afterpay’s acquisition by Square in 2021 and AirTrunk’s $16 billion sale to Blackstone. Canva, one of its most recognized investments, remains privately held but is the subject of IPO speculation.
Other
The firm is increasingly connected to global capital pools, positioning it as a gateway for Australian startups to access international funding and markets.
