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Cherryrock Capital: Backing Overlooked Tech Founders
15 Feb
Summary
- Stacy Brown-Philpot launched Cherryrock Capital to fund overlooked entrepreneurs.
- Cherryrock focuses on Series A and B software companies with smaller checks.
- The firm's disciplined pace contrasts with faster-deploying venture funds.
Stacy Brown-Philpot, formerly of Google and TaskRabbit, has established Cherryrock Capital with a distinct investment strategy. Launched in February 2025, the fund focuses on Series A and B software companies, deliberately targeting "underinvested entrepreneurs." This approach contrasts sharply with the mega-rounds and AI-centric deals prevalent in Silicon Valley.
Cherryrock Capital's debut fund, which closed in February 2025, is pursuing a concentrated portfolio of 12 to 15 investments. As of February 2026, the firm, alongside cofounder Saydeah Howard, has invested in only five companies, reflecting Brown-Philpot's emphasis on a measured deployment pace.
Brown-Philpot's focus on founders who may not fit the typical Silicon Valley mold is supported by prominent investors like JPMorgan and Bank of America. A new California diversity reporting law, requiring demographic data on portfolio company founding teams, aligns with Cherryrock's existing practices.
Investments include Coactive AI, which provides AI infrastructure for media and entertainment, and Vitable Health, a Philadelphia-based company offering primary care to employers and hourly workers. Brown-Philpot's operating philosophy acknowledges that most companies pursue acquisition rather than going public.
Looking ahead to 2026, Cherryrock Capital plans to actively deploy capital. The firm seeks Series A and B companies that have achieved scaled product-market fit, prioritizing strong founders regardless of their background.
