NextGen Ventures

Overview

NextGen Ventures is a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage startups founded by students and young entrepreneurs in Australia. It provides first-check investments up to $100,000, along with mentorship and resources, targeting sectors such as AI, consumer technology, and agtech.¹²

History

NextGen Ventures was launched in late 2024 by Mitchell Hughes and Jerry X’Lingson to support student founders.¹ Backed by Blackbird’s Niki Scevak and other limited partners, the firm raised $2 million from 34 LPs by June 2025 after targeting a $2.5 million fund.¹ It has made investments in startups including Fluency, Blunge, GrazeMate, Metasorb, and Lucent.²

Notable Products

• Investments in Fluency - Early-stage investment in a startup, part of portfolio supporting young Australian founders.
• Investment in Blunge - First-check funding for innovative early-stage company.
• Investment in GrazeMate - Investment in agtech startup addressing real-world challenges.
• Investment in Metasorb - Support for early-stage venture in the firm's portfolio.
• Investment in Lucent - Funding provided to young founder-led startup.

Reputation

NextGen Ventures has earned a reputation on Australian campuses for backing student founders with a founder-first approach that includes capital, mentorship, and resources.¹² Professionals note its commitment to young entrepreneurs facing startup challenges, though specific quantitative metrics like total AUM are not disclosed.² It differentiates through broad sector interest and hands-on support beyond funding.²