Brainworks

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Human neuro-anatomy and neuroscience are the root inspirations for AI innovation. This is a schematic of a human brain model.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Brainworks Ventures?

Brainworks Ventures is a $50 million AI-native venture capital fund. We invest in early-stage companies that use artificial intelligence as the foundation of their products and operations — not just as an add-on feature. Our focus spans AI-native enterprise software, health and biotech AI, AI infrastructure, and creative/media AI.

What stage companies do you invest in?

We primarily invest at the seed and Series A stages, typically writing checks of $500K to $3M. We look for companies with working prototypes or early traction that demonstrate a deep understanding of the AI technology powering their product.

What makes Brainworks different from other VC funds?

Our founding team brings decades of hands-on technical experience in AI, neural interfaces, semiconductor design, and technology commercialization. Dr. Phillip Alvelda, our Managing Partner, holds 30+ patents and led AI programs at DARPA, MIT AI Lab, and NASA JPL. We don’t just evaluate pitch decks — we understand the science behind the technology.

For Founders

How do I pitch Brainworks?

Submit your deck through our Pitch Us form on our homepage. We review every submission and aim to respond within two weeks. Include a brief description of your AI technology, your team, traction to date, and what you’re raising.

What do you look for in founders?

We invest in founders who deeply understand the AI powering their product. As Feynman said: “What I cannot create, I do not understand.” We value technical depth, clear thinking about market opportunity, and the ability to articulate why their approach is differentiated. We also look for founders who are building AI-native companies — where AI fundamentally changes the economics or capabilities, not just automates existing workflows.

What sectors are you most interested in?

Our core investment areas include:

  • AI-Native Enterprise Software — where AI is the product, not a feature
  • Health & BioTech AI — molecular diagnostics, drug discovery, brain-machine interfaces, precision medicine
  • AI Infrastructure — developer tools, compute platforms, data infrastructure
  • Creative & Media AI — content generation, production automation, distribution optimization

For Investors

How can I invest in the Brainworks fund?

Qualified investors interested in our fund can reach out through our Invest With Us form or Contact page. We’ll schedule a conversation to discuss our thesis, portfolio, and terms.

What is your geographic focus?

While we are headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area, we invest globally. Our European Partner, Volker Hirsch, leads deal sourcing and portfolio support across Europe and emerging markets.

How can I contact Brainworks?

Visit our Contact page or reach us through the forms on our homepage. We’re also active on LinkedIn and Bluesky.