JFFVentures

JFFVentures is an impact venture fund specializing in workforce development and future-of-work technologies, based in Boston. The fund invests in early-stage companies building tech-enabled solutions for economic mobility among workers in low- and middle-wage jobs, focusing on learning, career navigation, and job placement. Its first fund targeted $50 million across 55 investments, with 84% of founders identified as underrepresented in venture capital. JFFVentures recently announced a $15 million first close for its second $50 million fund, targeting 30-35 pre-seed and seed-stage startups with initial checks ranging from $250,000 to $1 million. Portfolio companies include Cell-Ed, ChargerHelp, and AdeptID, while funders have included the Rockefeller Foundation, Walmart Foundation, and Kellogg Foundation. The fund was launched in 2018 by founding managing partners Yigal Vakan and Rie Raja.