Next Founderville: Investing in the Future of Greenville’s Startup Ecosystem

Greenville-based NEXT is making waves in the startup world with its innovative approach to funding and supporting tech companies. Since launching a $6 million capital fund in January 2023, NEXT has already invested nearly $3 million in a select group of companies, with more on the horizon.

But NEXT’s Founderville fund is not just about the money. Co-founder Shay Houser explains, “The thesis of this fund is former Greenville founders funding the next crop of Greenville founders.” With 45 investors from Greenville, all of whom are founders or C-level executives of other successful companies, Founderville is focused on not only providing financial support but also mentorship and guidance to the startups it invests in.

Competition for funding from Founderville is fierce, as they aim to grow their fund to $12 million and attract tech startups from the Carolinas and Georgia for a one-year residency program at Flywheel Greenville, in partnership with Furman University’s The Hill Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

Houser emphasizes the long-term goal of building a thriving startup ecosystem in Greenville, one that can retain and attract the next generation of founders. With data showing a potential demographic shift in the city by 2030, Founderville is working to ensure that Greenville remains a hub for innovation and tech growth.

One key aspect of their strategy is to invest in companies that will in turn attract more investment and business to the area. Houser notes, “When we invest in a company, other money comes with it. It’s business feeding business. Everyone wins.”

With a vision to add eight companies a year for the next decade, Founderville is poised to make a significant impact on Greenville’s tech landscape and economy. As they continue to support and nurture startups, the hope is that Greenville will become a destination for tech talent and innovation, creating a brighter future for the city and its residents.