Outset Ventures

Outset Ventures is an Auckland-based deep technology venture firm and incubator that combines a venture fund, purpose-built laboratory and engineering facilities, and a founder community. Founded in 2016 (formerly LevelTwo Ventures), it operates from a 6,000 sqm campus in Parnell, Auckland — the birthplace of Rocket Lab, LanzaTech, and Mint Innovation. The firm has run two early-stage funds: Fund I (NZ$12M, 2021) and Fund II (NZ$41.5M, closed May 2025), investing pre-seed through Series A/B in New Zealand-based deep tech companies across energy, advanced materials, aerospace, industrial chemistry, medtech, and biotech. Its third vehicle, Momentum Fund, is an opportunity fund targeting NZ$50M (US$30–50M) focused on Series A/B breakout portfolio companies scaling globally, structured to qualify under New Zealand's Active Investor Plus visa framework. Outset leads investment rounds between NZ$100K and NZ$10M and provides hands-on board support, lab access, global investor introductions, and operational input. Founders can submit pitches via the firm's website.