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Backstage Capital

Backstage Capital is a US venture capital firm founded by Arlan Hamilton in 2015 to invest in early-stage companies led by underrepresented founders — women, people of colour and LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. It has backed more than 200 companies.

Venture CapitalLos AngelesFounded 2015backstagecapital.com
200+companies invested inTechCrunch

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About

Backstage Capital invests in the earliest stages of companies led by founders underestimated by traditional venture capital — specifically women, people of colour and LGBTQ+ founders. Founded in 2015 by Arlan Hamilton, the firm pioneered an open application process and a syndicate (Backstage Crowd) that let accredited and non-accredited investors participate. In December 2024 it entered a strategic partnership with 360 Venture Collective.

Backers

Backstage Capital's first outside LP was Susan Kimberlin in 2015; the firm has since raised over $30M. In December 2024 it entered a strategic partnership with 360 Venture Collective.

Some figures are founder-stated, not independently confirmed

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Quick answers

What does Backstage Capital invest in?

It invests in early-stage startups led by underrepresented founders — specifically women, people of colour and LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs — who are typically overlooked by traditional venture capital.

When was Backstage Capital founded?

Backstage Capital was founded in 2015 by Arlan Hamilton, who built the firm while experiencing homelessness.

Is Backstage Capital still active?

Yes. As of 2024-2025 the firm remains active; founder Arlan Hamilton moved into a Chair and advisory role, and Backstage entered a strategic partnership with 360 Venture Collective.

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Maintained by TechTO · facts sourced and dated · last reviewed Jul 18, 2026