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Pathbreaker Ventures
Pathbreaker invests in specialized founders determined to solve the world’s hardest problems through novel hardware and software technologies.
Pathbreaker Ventures
Pathbreaker invests in specialized founders determined to solve the world’s hardest problems through novel hardware and software technologies. Pathbreaker Ventures was one of the 1st deep tech funds founded in Silicon Valley. The firm is one of the earliest and most active investors in Robotics, Computer Vision, AI, and Hardware in Silicon Valley and supports specialized engineering and product leaders solving critical global problems.
General information
Firm type
Venture Capital
Year founded
2015
Location
Region
North America
Country
United States
City
Corte Madera
Corporate office
San Francisco, CA, United States
Principals
Ryan Gembala
Founder & Managing Partner
Sector focus
Frequently asked questions
What is Pathbreaker's investment focus?
Pathbreaker targets pre-seed and seed-stage companies building novel hardware and software for industrial markets. Core technologies include artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer vision, and robotics. The firm looks for specialized founders solving technically complex problems that, when solved, can transform large legacy industries.
What is Pathbreaker's average check size and stage?
Pathbreaker invests at the earliest stages — pre-seed and seed — and describes itself as a first-check firm, with selected follow-on capital for growth rounds. The firm has not disclosed a standard check-size range publicly.
How does Pathbreaker source deals?
Gembala's network, built across a decade in Silicon Valley as an operator, early-stage investor, and Meta corporate development lead, is the primary deal-sourcing engine. The firm's thesis-focused brand in deep tech — and its track record of category-defining acquisitions — attracts specialized founders in AI, robotics, and computer vision.
Profile maintained by Altss using OSINT (open-source intelligence), regulatory filings, licensed data partners, and verified direct submissions. Read the methodology. Last updated: . Continuous refresh with full update cycles at least every 30 days.
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