Pacifica Fund

Approach - Core IT & Materials Technology

Target Sectors

Pacifica invests in the fields of Information Technology and Materials Science.

Information Technology:
Communications, Computing, Sensors and Control Systems

We favor companies with core technology or integration capabilities that benefit general purpose, horizontal markets over those focused on vertical markets or 'point' solutions. We prefer to invest in platform technologies and businesses that enable applications and partners to deliver unique value.

While our IT interests are broad, we take special interest in certain areas, based on our view of the market. These include wireless networking and access, augmented email and related communications, database technology, security and authentication. Areas in which we do not invest include content, services based on content, its distribution, protection, and digital rights management.

	Materials Science Pacifica invests in new technologies and materials for electronics, communications, computing or industrial applications. This includes companies focusing on:
		Combinatorial chemistry
		Polymer conductors and semiconductors
		Novel, low-cost assembly technology, such as inkjet or self-assembly
		Nanotechnology or micro-machines with specific sensor or effector applications

Type of Business

	We invest in companies:
		with a differentiated, technology-driven, intellectual property basis
		where technology is the basis of value delivered, represents a strong competitive entry barrier or creates a large execution advantage
		whose business model may include software or hardware sales, licensing, leasing, services
		that sell to other businesses

	We generally do not invest in companies:
		where speed to market is driven by factors other than technology
		with neither technical differentiation nor the ability to create switching costs
		whose business models are rooted in integration or professional services that differentiate primarily on execution rather than technical advantage
		that sell to consumers

Company Stage

Pacifica primarily targets series A investments and expects to support the company in follow-on rounds. We participate in later stage deals on a case-by-case basis, especially in situations where our individual backgrounds or unique connections into Asia (particularly Japan) can add value.

Pacifica entertains seed investments only if the fit with our investing targets is excellent, and the founding team includes strong executives with relevant domain and startup experience. Bridge-type infusions in seed companies are considered only if we have already decided to move ahead with the following equity round.