Our Strategy: Vertical AI + Embedded Finance
At Great North Ventures, we back founders who can turn new technology into measurable business results. As former operators ourselves, we’ve built and scaled companies through multiple technology cycles — and we know the difference between hype and execution. With this in mind, we’ve sharpened our focus around two themes: Vertical AI and Embedded Finance. […]
Recap: 2025 Great North Ventures Annual Reception
At our 2025 Great North Ventures Annual Reception, the fireside chats were the centerpiece of the evening. For me, being on stage with our founders and partners was a chance to highlight not only their journeys but also the optimism and resilience of our community. Each conversation offered a unique window into how we are […]
How Two Midwest VCs Have Mastered Success Through Multiple Tech Cycles
by Graeme Thickins For twin brothers Rob and Ryan Weber, founding partners of Great North Ventures in Minnesota, entrepreneurship began in college, just as the Internet was taking off in 1996. As computer science majors (and Rob later switching to entrepreneurial studies), they learned quickly that Internet traffic could be monetized. Over a few years, […]
Great North Ventures Promotes Grant Gibson to Principal
Minneapolis – September 8, 2025 – Early-stage venture capital firm Great North Ventures announced today it has promoted Grant Gibson to Principal. Gibson joined the firm in 2023 as an Associate after receiving a JD Degree from the University of St. Thomas Law School, passing the Bar, and doing a brief stint at a local […]
New Investment into Benji
As a venture capitalist at Great North Ventures, I’m always looking for companies disrupting outdated industries with innovative solutions. That’s why I’m incredibly excited to share that we’ve invested in Benji, a startup poised to revolutionize loyalty rewards partnerships and integrations. The current landscape is ripe for disruption, and Benji’s next-generation platform offers a much-needed […]
The New Data Frontier: How Startups Are Transforming Industries Using Earth Observational Data
Advancements in technology are making satellite imagery more accessible than ever. Lower launch costs, improved data processing, and new drone capabilities are enabling industries to harness Earth observation data for specialized, high-impact solutions. From agriculture to logistics, companies are leveraging these tools to drive efficiency, reduce costs, and unlock new insights. New Tech That Makes […]
Waterlily Raises $7M Seed Round to Transform Long-Term Care Planning with AI
In a significant development for the long-term care (LTC) industry, Waterlily (http://www.waterlily.com) has secured $7 million in seed funding to advance its AI-driven platform that helps families and advisors navigate the complex landscape of long-term care planning. The oversubscribed round attracted notable investors including Brewer Lane Ventures and Great North Ventures alongside strategic investments from […]
Reflections from Iowa Angel Investor Summit 2024
Yesterday, I attended the Iowa Angel Summit 2024 which was organized by Tej Dhawan, Managing Director of Plains Angels.
Reflections From Wisconsin’s 2024 Early Stage Symposium
This past week, I had the pleasure of attending Wisconsin’s 2024 Early Stage Symposium in Madison, Wisconsin, on November 13th and 14th. Organized annually by the Wisconsin Technology Council, the event serves as a gathering place for investors, founders, and ecosystem partners across the region to foster collaboration and investment. As a Minnesota-based investor, I’ve […]
Know a Scrappy or Ultra Ambitious Startup? We’re Ready to Invest!
As we continue to deploy the remaining $24M from our early-stage Great North Ventures Fund II, we’re actively seeking exceptional startups to invest in. We are focused on two key profiles: the scrappy & efficient or the ultra-ambitious. Do you know a startup that fits one of these categories? Let us know! THE SCRAPPY & EFFICIENT […]