Why Now?

The venture landscape is undergoing a massive shift—and the industry isn't ready for it.

The Rise of AI & Automation

We're at the inflection point of AI redefining industries. The next generation of AI isn't general-purpose—it's highly specialized. Industry-specific automation models will reshape entire verticals.

LTF is positioned to back founders leveraging these technologies to fundamentally change how businesses operate across healthcare, logistics, industrial automation, and beyond.

Emerging U.S. Ecosystems

The best talent isn't just in Silicon Valley. Universities like CMU (Pittsburgh), Georgia Tech (Atlanta), UT Austin, and others are churning out world-class founders.

These undercapitalized cities are building unicorns—and we're getting in early. These aren't "emerging" markets. They're already producing category-defining companies that are flying under the radar of traditional VCs.

LP Demand for True Alpha

Institutional investors are demanding differentiated portfolios, not just exposure to the same overhyped categories. They're seeking funds that can deliver true contrarian edge.

LTF delivers alpha by identifying opportunities others miss—whether that's founders from non-traditional backgrounds, companies in overlooked geographies, or businesses solving problems most VCs aren't even aware of.

Our Strategy

We are a $25M fund, investing in 15-18 companies at Pre-Seed to Series A, writing checks between $250K - $1.5M.

AI & Automation

The next generation of AI isn't general-purpose—it's highly specialized. We back founders leveraging AI to reshape legacy markets—whether in healthcare, logistics, or industrial automation.

High-Impact Verticals

We invest where technology creates outsized, real-world impact. Healthcare, financial infrastructure, climate, and beyond. Systemic change with exceptional returns.

Unconventional Markets

Real alpha is found outside the obvious venture capital hubs. Pittsburgh, Atlanta, Austin, Columbus—these aren't "emerging" markets. They're already producing category-defining companies that most VCs miss.

Who We Back

We invest in founders who challenge conventional wisdom and build from first principles.

01

First-Principles Thinkers

They don't optimize for what exists today—they redefine what's possible. These founders see patterns and opportunities that others miss.

02

Deep Technical Expertise

We back founders who have an unfair advantage—whether from domain mastery, deep technical expertise, or lived experience that gives them unique market insights.

03

Capital-Efficient Builders

In a world of overfunded, cash-burning startups, we fund the outliers who know how to turn capital into durable businesses with sustainable growth models.

We don't chase trends. We create them. We don't follow the herd. We find the next frontier. We don't invest in founders who play by the rules. We back the ones who rewrite them.

Ready to Light the Fire?

For founders looking to build the future and LPs seeking true alpha, Light The Fire Ventures is your edge in a conformist market.

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