The Backing
Funding for inception
Capital is part of every Philo relationship, through our programs and on its own. We write first checks into inception-stage founders, whether you're building with us or independently. Plus open doors, hands-on −1 to 1 know-how, and our team on call for the moments we can move the work forward.
Who we back
Founders building from −1 to 1.
We back founders at the earliest stages of value creation. The ones tackling big problems and building futures worth chasing. We tend to be the first institutional check on the cap table, often before product, sometimes before the vision is clearly set. We're looking for ambition, conviction, and the kind of insight that changes our view of the future. We don't wait for traction to prove you out. We engage early and build conviction alongside you.
How we invest
Earliest engagement, earliest conviction, earliest funding.
The speed comes from conviction, not corner-cutting. Because we engage early, often through our programs, we already know the work by the time we invest. That means first checks on standard, founder-friendly terms, without drawn-out diligence.
Where capital shows up
Through our programs and on its own.
Capital is part of every Philo relationship.
On its own.
First checks into the inception-stage founders we believe in. For founders building independently or who don't want a full program engagement. Capital, network, and our team available for the moments we can move the work forward.
Through Explore.
$25K for 1% on a SAFE, so you can pressure-test a thesis with capital behind you.
Through Build.
$450K in operating capital from day one, plus $450K in platform, for $900K of total value. The cash funds the work; the crew helps drive it.
Sandbox
For the next generation of founders.
The Sandbox Fund is Philo's dedicated capital for student founders building out of the Sandbox accelerator at leading universities across Utah and the surrounding region. First checks into the most ambitious student founders building a future worth backing. This is our commitment to building the next generation of value creators where we are.
Beyond the check
Even when it's just a check, you get the crew behind it.
In the trenches with you.
We build companies ourselves, so we know your work from the inside. You get partners who've made the same calls, with the instincts, relationships, and resources to help, not just a check.
Open doors.
Introductions to the customers, investors, and operators you actually need to reach.
A team on call.
Office hours and working sessions for the moments we can move the work forward.
Raise with Philo
Let's talk.
Whether you have a deck or just a thesis, get in touch. We move fast, and we read every note.