LongJump Ventures - How a Pre-Seed Fund Evaluates Early-Stage Startups

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Capital Connections brings funds, investors, and founders together to discuss what’s top of mind for early-stage companies: fundraising. This session features LongJump Ventures, the most active pre-seed VC investing in Chicago companies since 2021.

Founders will learn about LongJump’s investment approach, what the firm looks for in early-stage startups, and how they support founders beyond capital. As a first-check, founder-led fund, LongJump focuses on backing the next generation of entrepreneurs with capital, connections, and community.

This session provides founders with direct insight into how pre-seed investors think and evaluate opportunities.

Who Should Attend:

Early-stage founders
Startups considering venture capital
Founders preparing for pre-seed fundraising
Entrepreneurs seeking investor perspective

About the Instructor

Tina Hrabak is Head of Platform at LongJump Ventures. She builds LongJump’s presence within the startup community, supports portfolio growth, and assists with fund operations.

About the Organization

LongJump is a first-check, founder-led fund designed to invest in the next generation of founders. We provide capital, connections, and community to help founders take the leap toward building fast-growing, scalable businesses.

About Capital Connections

Capital Connections brings funds, investors, lenders, and other capital providers together to discuss what's top of mind for every founder: fundraising! This program connects entrepreneurs with funding resources and provides an environment to learn about the venture capital landscape. While we don't guarantee connections between founders and VCs, we offer valuable education and resources that help founders make informed decisions about their fundraising strategy. Capital Connections empowers entrepreneurs by providing insights into what investors are looking for, current market trends, and strategies for effectively approaching potential funders.

Venue

Classroom

Location

mHUB 1623 W Fulton St 1623 W Fulton St, Chicago, IL 60612, US Get Directions

Date and Time

01/28/26 @ 2:00 PM

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