Participated · Seed · Sep 2022

CarpeDM operates a subscription-based, tech-enabled matchmaking service and patented video-based dating app designed to help Black women and people seeking to date them. The service pairs handpicked and algorithm-curated matches and requires a 5- to 10-minute video chat to test chemistry before users remain matched. CarpeDM has pioneered 100% member background checks, verifying identity, employment, income, and criminal history via a proprietary one-on-one interview process and its accredited partner KarmaCheck. The app is currently available in the Washington, D.C. area and the company participates in the inaugural Techstars Washington DC Powered by J.P. Morgan accelerator. Co-founded by Naza Shelley and Sali Hama, CarpeDM recently closed a Pre-Seed round and plans to use the funds to accelerate growth and expand operations.

Participated · Seed · May 2022

Lalo is a digital-scrapbook mobile app that launched out of closed beta on the App Store and Google Play to help users memorialize loved ones. Users create private, invite-only “spaces” where family and friends can upload photos, video, voice messages and text; voice messages proved especially popular in the ~600-user closed beta. The app includes prompts developed with board member Dr. Robert Niemeyer, a psychology professor and grief expert, to guide storytelling and avoid triggering content. Lalo currently offers free uploads and plans to charge around $25 per year for additional storage while keeping a free tier and refusing to sell ads or user data. The company uses AWS for encrypted data storage today and says it will store backups in multiple locations and comply with privacy laws; users can request deletion of their data. Founder Juan Medina left Amazon in March 2021 to build the product and the company operates with a small team of five.