KYTO Technology & Life Science

KYTO operates through a vehicle called K2X Capital, which it describes as creating an ETF-like vehicle of diversified and thoroughly vetted startups. The structure pools capital into a single fund that holds a broad portfolio of over 85 companies, providing non-correlated exposure to angel-stage deals. Investors gain access to a batch of startups rather than making individual direct investments.

All investments are double-vetted through two formal screening committees. The Technology Screening committee is chaired by Hus Tigli, and the Life Science Screening committee is chaired by Joan Plastiras. The firm states it targets the top 10% of startups and maintains an agnostic posture on market and geography, sourcing from the US, Canada, Israel, and India.

KYTO makes direct investments in individual startups. Its publicly listed portfolio consists solely of operating companies, with no fund-of-fund positions disclosed. The firm participates across stages from seed to expansion, primarily in the technology and life science sectors.

Paul M. Russo serves as Chairman and CEO. Day-to-day portfolio management oversight falls to John Ricci as Director of Portfolio Management. Screening decisions are delegated to two committee chairs: Hus Tigli for technology deals and Joan Plastiras for life science deals. The firm also employs a Senior Advisor for Due Diligence, Richard Ayllon.

The firm's website lists two related funds focused on India: Chakra Growth Capital, targeting automation and decarbonization, and RiSo Capital, a seed investor for India-based tech startups. Both list Sri Purisai as managing director, and RiSo Capital shares its address in Saratoga, California with KYTO's advisory network.