For many startup founders, securing a capital raise is a moment of triumph—validation of their vision, team, and opportunity. But seasoned investors will tell you: the work doesn’t end at funding. In fact, it begins in earnest.

When founders begin fundraising, it's natural to aim for the biggest names and largest funds they can find. After all, large venture capital funds bring prestige, connections, and deep pockets. However, there's a strong case to be made that smaller funds are often a better fit for early-stage startups, especially at the Seed stage.

Cove Fund is proud to announce that our portfolio company, BLNG, has been featured in The New York Times for its groundbreaking work in revolutionizing the jewelry industry through artificial intelligence. The article, titled “Jewelry, Bling and Artificial Intelligence,” highlights how BLNG is transforming jewelry design and marketing by integrating advanced AI technologies.

At Cove Fund, we review hundreds of startups every year—some make it into our portfolio, most don’t. But each one offers insight into how the early-stage venture landscape is shifting. We recently asked our limited partners: Are you seeing any interesting trends or patterns in the startups we’re screening?

At Cove Fund, we take a different approach to seed-stage venture investing — one that’s built on hands-on engagement, a true community model, and a deep commitment to Southern California founders.

At Cove Fund, we often say that a check is just the beginning. While capital is essential fuel for any startup, what truly differentiates a venture fund — especially in the seed stage — is the value it delivers beyond the check.

At Cove Fund, we don’t track vanity metrics — we focus on the signals that reveal real, sustainable progress in early-stage startups. While metrics vary by sector, our managers consistently emphasize six key areas

At the Cove Fund, we see hundreds of startup pitches each year — from founders across Southern California and beyond. The sheer volume means that standing out is not about flashy slides or big market claims. It’s about substance, clarity, and a team that inspires confidence.

At Cove Fund, when we invest in early-stage companies, we aren’t just betting on an idea or a market — we’re betting on people. Time and time again, our experience has taught us that the leadership team is the #1 driver of success.