Investing in Georgetown alumni founders through a strategic model that gives back to the university that shaped us all.
Founders First, Georgetown Always
Founders First, Georgetown Always
Investing in Georgetown alumni founders through a strategic model that gives back to the university that shaped us all.
1789 Ventures invests in Georgetown alumni founders who are building companies with a lasting impact. We pair capital investment with professional mentorship to create a legacy of entrepreneurial success and philanthropic support for Georgetown University.
1789 Ventures invests in Georgetown alumni founders who are building companies with a lasting impact. We pair capital investment with professional mentorship to create a legacy of entrepreneurial success and philanthropic support for
Georgetown University.
Every Hoya’s journey began on the Hilltop. We help founders scale their visions and grow their companies through strategic capital and professional expertise, ensuring a portion of that success always finds its way back home.
At the time of a liquidity event, 1789 Ventures donates 10% of its equity proceeds to Georgetown University to support its philanthropic initiatives and entrepreneurial ecosystem. Every exit fuels a new beginning.
Purpose at the Center
Purpose at the Center
We partner with Georgetown alumni founders who lead with intention and demonstrate real progress toward solving meaningful problems. Our approach prioritizes clarity, traction, and ventures built for long-term economic and community impact.
What We Look For
What We Look For
We partner with Georgetown alumni founders who lead with intention and demonstrate real progress toward solving meaningful problems. Our approach prioritizes clarity, traction, and ventures built for long-term economic and community impact.
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Clear Market Fit
We invest in founders who clearly define the problem they’re solving and demonstrate demand for their solution.
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Proven Early Momentum
We look for meaningful early traction that shows the venture is moving beyond the concept stage.
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Commitment to the work
We partner with founders who lead with discipline, intention, and long-term commitment.
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Built for Durable Impact
We invest in companies designed to create lasting economic and community value over time.
our portfolio
founders
Co-Founder
Steve Padilla graduated from Georgetown University in 1997 with a B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies and later earned an M.F.A. in Film from Columbia University’s School of the Arts. Upon graduation, he founded his own production company and spent 25 years working as an independent filmmaker and commercial producer for some of the world’s most recognizable brands.
Over time, Steve realized that the most fulfilling part of his career was teaching, advising, and mentoring emerging creators. He now brings that same commitment to supporting founders as a co-founder of 1789 Ventures, partnering with Georgetown alumni building meaningful companies.
Steve Padilla
Co-Founder
Matt Rizzo graduated from Georgetown University in 1997 with a B.S. in Chemistry before attending Columbia Law School. For 25 years, he practiced private equity and M&A law at Willkie Farr & Gallagher, advising clients on complex transactions and long-term value creation.
In May 2022, Matt underwent successful brain surgery. When he woke up, he experienced a moment of clarity that led him to step away from the law and pursue venture capital investing. He founded MJR Ventures and later combined his passion for investing with his deep connection to Georgetown by co-founding 1789 Ventures with his lifelong friend, Steve Padilla.
matt rizzo
Get in Touch
If you’re a Georgetown alumni founder interested in working with us, share a few details about your company and we’ll be in touch.