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Redbud VC
Redbud VC is an early-stage venture capital fund investing in tech founders strengthened by struggle, supporting them with resources from Middle America.
Redbud VC
Redbud VC is an early-stage venture capital fund investing in tech founders strengthened by struggle, supporting them with resources from Middle America.
General information
Firm type
Venture Capital
Year founded
2000
AUM
Undisclosed
Location
Region
North America
Country
United States
City
Columbia
Corporate office
Columbia, MO, United States
Principals
Willy Schlacks
General Partner
Brett Calhoun
General Partner
Jabbok Schlacks
General Partner
Sector focus
Frequently asked questions
Who runs investment decisions at Redbud VC?
General Partners Willy Schlacks, Brett Calhoun, and Jabbok Schlacks make investment decisions. The firm has no investment committee; partners issue term sheets within 24 hours of a final call based on direct diligence and operator references.
How does Redbud VC source its deal flow?
Redbud VC sources founders through an open application process and ecosystem referrals from its Midwest base, rather than relying on warm introductions to coastal networks. The firm targets first-time entrepreneurs, immigrants, and founders with Midwest roots, which together represent the majority of its portfolio.
What investment stages and check sizes does Redbud VC target?
Redbud VC writes first checks into pre-seed and seed rounds. The firm has been the first institutional believer in over 60% of its portfolio and makes 8 to 12 new investments annually. The firm does not publicly disclose a standard check size.
Is Redbud VC a sector-focused fund?
No, Redbud VC is a generalist fund investing in technology companies across industries. Portfolio companies include AI-driven health tech, enterprise software, and medical imaging ventures, with no explicit sector exclusions.
Does Redbud VC participate in follow-on investments?
Yes, Redbud VC makes follow-on investments in existing portfolio companies. The firm structures its participation on a case-by-case basis after the initial pre-seed or seed round.
Where does Redbud VC invest geographically?
Redbud VC invests nationally across the United States and Canada, with portfolio companies in Toronto, Miami, New York, and the Midwest. The firm operates virtually and does not require founders to be based in Missouri.
What is the background of Redbud VC's founding team?
General Partners Willy Schlacks, Brett Calhoun, and Jabbok Schlacks are serial entrepreneurs who previously built a technology company to $4 billion in annual revenue in Columbia, Missouri. Their operator experience shapes the firm's diligence process and hands-on support model.
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