Class 5 Global

Class 5 Global is a San Francisco, California-based venture capital firm that invests in early-stage technology startups from the pre-seed through Series A stages across emerging markets. The firm primarily targets companies operating in the Middle East and North Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia, providing hands-on operational support to connect local businesses with broader international opportunities. Operating with fewer than 25 employees and generating under $5 million in annual revenue, the firm currently manages two closed venture funds and opened a third fund to the market in November 2022. The firm's active investment portfolio features emerging market technology companies such as TrueHome, Dapi, Nomad, and Invygo, which includes leading an $8.8 million Series A funding round for TrueHome. Class 5 Global was officially founded in 2018 by managing partners and co-founders Zach Finkelstein and Joel Ayala.

Class 5 Global is a venture capital fund focused on investing in the next generation of entrepreneurs from emerging markets. Its mission centers on supporting visionary founders who are building innovative companies that address unique challenges and opportunities in these regions. The fund’s investment philosophy emphasizes backing high-potential startups that can scale globally while rooted in their local markets. Key sectors include commerce, shopping, and technology-driven platforms that serve large, underserved populations. By providing capital and strategic support, Class 5 Global plays a significant role in nurturing the startup ecosystem in emerging markets, helping founders access global networks and resources[1][2][4][5].

Founded in 2018 and based in San Francisco, Class 5 Global was established by partners with deep experience in emerging markets and technology investing. The firm has evolved by focusing on sectors where digital transformation is accelerating rapidly, such as e-commerce and fintech. Its portfolio includes notable companies like Careem, a ride-hailing platform acquired by Uber for $3.1 billion, Meliuz, a leading cashback app in Latin America, and Fresha, a commerce tool for beauty and wellness merchants worldwide. These successes highlight the fund’s ability to identify and scale market leaders in diverse emerging regions[4][5].

Core Differentiators

• Unique Investment Model: Focus on emerging market entrepreneurs with global scalability potential.
• Network Strength: Access to a broad ecosystem of founders, investors, and industry experts across multiple emerging markets.
• Track Record: Successful investments in category-defining companies like Careem, Meliuz, and Fresha.
• Operating Support: Hands-on partnership approach emphasizing founder support beyond capital, including strategic guidance and market access[5].

Role in the Broader Tech Landscape

Class 5 Global rides the wave of rapid digital adoption in emerging markets, where increasing internet penetration and mobile usage create fertile ground for tech-driven startups. The timing is critical as these markets leapfrog traditional infrastructure, enabling innovative business models in commerce, mobility, and financial services. Market forces such as growing middle classes, urbanization, and regulatory reforms favor startups that can deliver localized solutions at scale. By investing early and deeply, Class 5 Global helps shape the entrepreneurial ecosystem, fostering innovation that can compete globally while addressing local needs[1][2][5].

Quick Take & Future Outlook

Looking ahead, Class 5 Global is poised to deepen its influence by expanding investments into new emerging markets and sectors aligned with digital transformation trends, such as fintech, healthtech, and climate tech. The fund’s emphasis on founder-centric support and global connectivity will likely enhance its portfolio companies’ growth trajectories and exit opportunities. As emerging markets continue to mature technologically and economically, Class 5 Global’s role as a bridge between local entrepreneurs and global capital will become increasingly vital, potentially shaping the next wave of global tech champions[5].

This forward momentum ties back to Class 5 Global’s core ethos: investing in people and ideas that redefine emerging markets’ futures.