Chris DeVore (Founders' Co-op)
Overview
Chris DeVore is a notable figure in the venture capital landscape, especially recognized for his work as the Founding Managing Partner of Founders' Co-op, a leading seed-stage venture fund located in the Pacific Northwest. Under his leadership, the firm has become a significant player in the startup ecosystem, investing in over 100 startups. Chris is highly recognized for his pivotal role in the early stages of prominent companies such as Remitly, Outreach, and Auth0. Aside from his venture capital endeavors, DeVore was instrumental in the establishment of Techstars Seattle, guiding many startups in their infancy.
Recent Developments
- November 3, 2025: Chris DeVore announced the launch of Founders' Co-op's sixth fund, valued at $50 million. This initiative reflects the firm’s ongoing commitment to supporting promising early-stage startups in the Pacific Northwest.
- March 11, 2025: Founders’ Co-op disclosed through SEC filings that they were raising a new fund, signaling continued growth and investment in the regional technology sector.
- 2024: The firm, under DeVore's guidance, continued to broaden its portfolio and strengthen its investment strategy focused on technical founding teams.
- 2023: Chris DeVore emphasized the strategic focus on being the "best first-check investor," staying true to the company's roots without expanding aggressively beyond their chosen market.
Personal Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Chris DeVore |
| Born | Not publicly available |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Venture Capitalist, Managing Partner |
| Known For | Founders’ Co-op, Techstars Seattle |
| Net Worth | Not publicly available |
| Education | Bachelor's from Yale University, MBA from Stanford |
Early Life and Education
Chris DeVore completed his undergraduate studies at Yale University, which laid a strong foundation for his future entrepreneurial and venture capitalist endeavors. Following his stint at Yale, he attended Stanford Graduate School of Business for his MBA, though details about his early childhood and family background remain largely private. His experiences at these prestigious institutions equipped him with the necessary skills and insights needed for success in the dynamic business and technology sectors.
Career and Notable Achievements
Chris DeVore’s career is marked by impressive entrepreneurial ventures and significant contributions to the startup ecosystem:
- Founders' Co-op (2008 - Present): As the Founding Managing Partner, DeVore has cultivated a robust portfolio of startups. The firm is renowned for its early backing of now-major companies like Remitly and Outreach.
- Techstars Seattle: Co-founded this accelerator, which was pivotal in shaping the startup landscape in Seattle. From 2010 to 2019, DeVore played a critical role in supporting over 100 founding teams.
- Adjacency: Co-founded this e-commerce consultancy, which was acquired by Sapient in 1999.
- Patagonia: Spearheaded the creation of the company's online retail presence, a pioneering move at the time.
Current Work and Impact
Currently, Chris DeVore leads Founders' Co-op, which continues to be a vital force in funding startups. The firm’s strategy, as articulated by DeVore, focuses on being a pivotal early investor that helps propel startups to subsequent funding rounds. This approach not only aids in the initial success of emerging companies but also contributes significantly to the Pacific Northwest’s economic and technological landscapes.
Conclusion
Chris DeVore's work, particularly through Founders' Co-op, has had a profound impact on the venture capital scene, especially in the Pacific Northwest. His strategic vision and commitment to supporting early-stage startups have laid the groundwork for numerous companies achieving notable success. As he continues to nurture burgeoning enterprises, DeVore’s influence is expected to persist, fostering innovation and economic growth in the region.