HAX (SOSV)

HAX, a part of SOSV, is a venture capital firm focused on pre-seed startups solving challenging real-world problems with hard technology. The firm emphasizes bridging the gap between scientific research and industrial-scale application, providing hands-on support for founders working at the intersection of science and engineering. HAX aims to tackle significant physical challenges in areas like plasma, critical minerals, climate infrastructure, chemistry, robotics, and advanced manufacturing, recognizing that these areas demand more than just software solutions. Their strategy involves de-risking technologies through rapid prototyping, access to specialized resources, and technical expertise, and assisting founders in achieving market traction. HAX offers more than just capital; they build an entire engineering organization around their portfolio companies. This support includes a six-month residency at their 35,000 square-foot facility in Newark, NJ, providing access to tools, space, and technical depth necessary for turning research into prototypes and prototypes into viable products. Complementing the Newark operation are HAX's design, engineering, and manufacturing experts located in Pune and Shenzhen, offering a global reach for their support infrastructure. The firm's unique approach involves a hands-on approach, addressing the specific needs of hard tech startups, differentiating it from traditional venture capital firms. HAX's focus extends to building ecosystems that support deep tech innovation. An example of this is the development of the HAX Plasma Forge in Princeton, NJ, in partnership with the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory and the New Jersey Economic Development Authority. This initiative aims to provide founders with access to world-class plasma physics expertise, facilitating advancements in manufacturing, materials, semiconductors, and energy. By creating dedicated infrastructure and access to experts, HAX aims to accelerate the development and commercialization of plasma-based technologies and other hard tech ventures. HAX seems to invest in companies that have a focus on the future of industry and global challenges such as decarbonization and energy transition. They look for female founders and companies based in specific locations that they are working to build up as hubs.

Plasma, critical minerals, climate infrastructure, chemistry, robotics, advanced manufacturing, energy transition, neurotech, decarbonization, sustainable manufacturing, industrial IoT

Core thematic spaces, technologies, and target market segments of interest.