TEN13

TEN13 is an innovative venture capital firm based in Fortitude Valley, Australia, co-founded in 2019 by Stew Glynn and Steve Baxter. Its mission is to provide flexible, network-driven early-stage venture capital to ambitious founders and sophisticated investors. TEN13 operates on a deal-by-deal investment model, allowing over 500 investors to selectively back startups, primarily in sectors such as fintech, health and wellbeing, education, AI, and enterprise software. The firm has deployed over $100 million across more than 65 startups globally, offering not only capital but also strategic guidance, operational support, and extensive network connections to help startups scale effectively[1][3][6].

Founded with a vision to change how venture capital is accessed and deployed, TEN13 was established by experienced entrepreneurs and investors Stew Glynn and Steve Baxter in 2019. The firm has evolved to include partners like Sophie Robertson and Joel Pobar, who bring expertise in AI and investor relations. TEN13’s unique syndicated investment platform emerged to provide more targeted and flexible investment opportunities, supporting startups from pre-seed to Series A rounds. Early successes include backing companies like Clipchamp (acquired by Microsoft), Go1 (which raised $200 million from Softbank), and Chipper Cash, a leading African fintech app[1][3][5].

Core Differentiators

• Unique Investment Model: Deal-by-deal syndication allows investors to choose specific startups, increasing flexibility and targeted capital allocation.
• Network Strength: Access to a broad network of over 500 investors and global connections, including expansions into Southeast Asia and North America.
• Track Record: Over $100 million invested in 65+ startups with notable exits and high-growth portfolio companies.
• Operating Support: Hands-on involvement providing strategic guidance, operational help, and network facilitation beyond just funding.

Role in the Broader Tech Landscape

TEN13 rides the wave of democratizing venture capital by leveraging a syndicated, network-driven model that aligns with the increasing demand for flexible, founder-friendly funding. The timing is favorable due to growing global startup ecosystems, especially in fintech, AI, and health tech sectors, where TEN13 actively invests. Their approach supports early-stage innovation across multiple continents, influencing the broader ecosystem by enabling startups to access capital and expertise that might otherwise be out of reach, thus accelerating global tech innovation[1][3][6].

Quick Take & Future Outlook

Looking ahead, TEN13 is poised to continue expanding its global footprint and sector focus, particularly in AI and emerging markets. Trends such as increased digital transformation, cross-border fintech adoption, and AI-driven solutions will shape their investment strategy. Their influence is likely to grow as they refine their syndication model and deepen operational support, potentially becoming a leading global early-stage VC platform that bridges investors and visionary founders with agility and scale[1][3][5]. This evolution ties back to their founding mission of changing access to venture capital and fueling the next generation of world-changing companies.