Solo GP Ashley Smith has closed her second fund at $25 million to invest in startups focused on artificial intelligence, security, and related sectors, the firm announced this week. This new fund follows her initial $15 million fund and aims to back early-stage companies innovating in these high-growth areas.
Smith raised the fund through a combination of limited partners and personal capital, targeting startups that leverage AI technologies and cybersecurity solutions. She emphasized a hands-on approach to support founders, with a focus on companies that demonstrate strong technical capabilities and scalable business models. The fund’s deployment strategy includes seed and pre-seed investments, with a typical check size ranging from $250,000 to $1 million.
The $25 million fund positions Smith among a growing number of solo general partners raising dedicated capital for AI and security startups, sectors that have attracted significant venture capital interest recently. Comparable funds in this space include those led by other solo GPs focusing on early-stage tech innovation. The fund’s size and focus reflect the increasing investor appetite for AI-driven solutions and cybersecurity amid rising digital threats and enterprise adoption.
Smith’s first fund invested in over a dozen startups since its 2024 launch, with several companies advancing to Series A rounds. The new fund’s close was confirmed in a filing dated July 7, 2026, setting the stage for fresh investments in the months ahead.