Lever VC

Lever VC is a New York-based FoodTech and AgTech specialist venture capital firm founded in 2017 by Managing Partner Nick Cooney. The firm invests globally in early-stage companies creating the future of food and agriculture, with a focus on alternative proteins, crop genetics, novel food ingredients, animal agriculture technology, plant-based foods, fermentation, and sustainable ag inputs. Its portfolio spans North America, Europe, Asia, Latin America, and the GCC. Lever VC closed Fund I at $80M (deploying since 2019) and is actively deploying Fund II, which achieved a first close of $50M toward a $250M target. Initial check sizes range from $200K–$1M, with follow-on capacity of $1M–$4M. The firm prefers to lead or co-lead rounds and take board or board observer seats. It conducts lead-level due diligence supported by an in-house scientific and technical team. Founders can submit investment opportunities via an Airtable form on the firm's website.