Backstage Capital Founder Arlan Hamilton Announces New Chapter
In a statement released online on Friday, Arlan Hamilton, founder of Backstage Capital, announced that her role at the firm she started in 2015 will undergo significant changes. After 12 years of being deeply involved in the day-to-day operations, Hamilton has decided to transition into a chairperson and advisory position.
A New Era for Backstage Capital
According to Hamilton’s statement, this move will allow her to focus on what she does best: amplifying Backstage’s mission, hosting office hours with founders and investors, chairing the advisory board, and bringing new opportunities to the table through her platform. The firm has invested in over 200 companies, including fintech Guava and information platform Career Karma, and has around $20 million in assets under management, with 56 exits.
Strategic Partnership with 360 Venture Collective
Hamilton also announced that Backstage Capital will enter a strategic partnership with 360 Venture Collective. This partnership will see 360 Venture Collective acquiring a significant stake in Backstage’s management entity and joining as co-managing operators, providing capital, and helping the firm scale. Together, they will launch a $200 million fund in 2025.
A New Chapter for Hamilton and Backstage Capital
Hamilton wrote that this partnership will ensure the firm remains sustainable while multiplying its ability to support underestimated founders and create a lasting legacy. She expressed her confidence that this next chapter will take the firm to incredible heights and is honored to continue being part of the journey in this new capacity.
The Future of Backstage Capital
Backstage Capital has weathered some stormy winds over the past few years, with a slowdown in investments reported back in 2022. The firm announced at the time that it would focus on backing only existing portfolio companies and substantially downsize its team from 12 people to three.
Hamilton also noted in her podcast that she was frustrated with limited partners, saying that the firm found itself in a "purgatory kind of position" because some investors believed it already had enough support, even though this wasn’t the case. The landscape for firms like Backstage and for founders like those it backs has only become more fraught since 2022.
The Challenge Ahead
Funding and support to diverse founders and operators have somewhat stalled, especially for Black founders. Hamilton’s statement highlighted that the partnership with 360 Venture Collective will ensure the firm remains sustainable while multiplying its ability to support underestimated founders and create a lasting legacy.
The Impact of the Partnership
The strategic partnership between Backstage Capital and 360 Venture Collective is set to bring significant changes to the firm. With 360 Venture Collective acquiring a significant stake in Backstage’s management entity, the firm will have access to more capital, resources, and expertise. This partnership will help the firm scale and continue its mission of supporting underestimated founders.
Hamilton’s Commitment
In her statement, Hamilton expressed her commitment to continuing her work with Backstage Capital, albeit in a new capacity. She is confident that this next chapter will take the firm to incredible heights and is honored to be part of the journey in this new capacity.
The Future of Venture Capital
The partnership between Backstage Capital and 360 Venture Collective highlights the evolving landscape of venture capital. As firms like Backstage adapt to changing market conditions, it’s essential to consider the impact on founders and operators who rely on these firms for support.
Conclusion
Arlan Hamilton’s announcement marks a significant shift in her role at Backstage Capital. With a new partnership with 360 Venture Collective, the firm will have access to more resources, capital, and expertise. This strategic move is set to propel Backstage Capital forward while supporting its mission of amplifying underestimated founders.
About Arlan Hamilton
Arlan Hamilton is the founder of Backstage Capital, a venture capital fund that invests in underestimated founders. She has been instrumental in shaping the firm’s mission and strategy over the years.
About 360 Venture Collective
360 Venture Collective is a venture capital firm that partners with firms like Backstage Capital to provide support and resources to underestimated founders.
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