Collab Capital is a venture capital firm founded in 2020 by Jewel Burks Solomon and Barry Givens. Headquartered in Atlanta, the firm is dedicated to investing in Black-led early-stage companies and building a new model for shared prosperity in the innovation economy. Its approach blends capital, culture, and community to support founders solving real and systemic problems.
Collab Capital focuses on early-stage companies building in sectors such as the future of work, healthcare, and infrastructure.
The firm primarily invests at the seed and Series A stages, with an emphasis on mission-driven teams that are tackling large, structural challenges in society.
In June 2025, Collab Capital announced the close of its second fund, a $75 million vehicle. Fund II includes major institutional limited partners such as Apple, Goldman Sachs Asset Management, and The Leon Levine Foundation.
The fund is designed to invest in at least 30 companies over the next five years, with check sizes ranging from 1 million to 2 million dollars.
Approximately 40 percent of the fund has been reserved for follow-on investments. The firm has already made six investments out of Fund II.
This new capital allows Collab to expand its strategy and “double down” on its mission, making larger investments in companies that demonstrate strong potential for both impact and returns.
Leadership
Collab Capital is led by co-founders Jewel Burks Solomon and Barry Givens. Solomon gained national recognition for her leadership at Google for Startups US and has been a visible advocate for Black entrepreneurs in tech. Givens is a seasoned entrepreneur and investor who has played a key role in shaping the firm’s operational and cultural vision.
Investment Strategy
The firm applies a conviction-driven strategy that pairs capital with high-touch support. Collab offers not only funding, but also:
The firm believes that by removing systemic barriers and focusing on sustainable growth, startups can generate competitive returns while driving long-term impact.
Notable Investments
From its first $50 million fund, Collab Capital backed 38 companies, including the waste management startup Goodr and the digital health platform Culina Health.
The firm’s second fund is already active, with six undisclosed portfolio companies funded to date.
Other
Raising Fund II took nearly two years amid a difficult macro environment and shifting LP priorities.
The successful close reflects the firm’s growing influence in the venture capital ecosystem and the trust it has built with both investors and founders.
Collab Capital is part of a broader movement of Black-led venture funds closing sizable vehicles and reshaping access to capital across underrepresented communities.
