The cold chain logistics industry in the US plays a crucial role in maintaining the quality and safety of temperature-sensitive goods such as pharmaceuticals, food products, and biological materials. Companies within this sector provide specialized services including refrigerated transportation, temperature-controlled warehousing, and monitoring solutions, all designed to ensure compliance with strict regulatory standards. With growing consumer demand for fresh goods and pharmaceutical products, the industry is leveraging advanced technologies like IoT and automation to optimize operations. In addition, investments in sustainability and energy efficiency are becoming focal points, as businesses strive to minimize their environmental impact while enhancing service efficiency.

The list features a range of 15 prominent investors specializing in cold chain logistics, including venture capital and private equity firms. Their headquarters span major US cities like New York, San Francisco, and Chicago, with investments reflecting a variety of business sizes from startups to established corporations. Founded over decades, these firms have made a substantial number of deals in 2024, demonstrating their commitment to the sector's growth. From established players like KKR and Blackstone to innovative newcomers like the Deep Tech Fund, these investors are shaping the future of cold chain logistics with their financial support and strategic guidance.

Top 15 Cold Chain Logistics Investors in the US

1. Y Combinator

• Website: ycombinator.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 802
• LinkedIn: y-combinator

Y Combinator is a prominent startup accelerator and venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2005. It provides funding and mentorship to early-stage technology companies through a structured program that includes resources like the Startup School and co-founder matching services. Y Combinator has successfully launched over 4,000 startups, making it a key player in the technology startup ecosystem. Among its notable transactions, Y Combinator invested in Topship, a Lagos-based logistics startup, which raised $2.5 million in a seed round to enhance its technology and fuel growth. This investment highlights Y Combinator's engagement in the logistics sector, which can encompass cold chain logistics, although their primary focus remains on technology-driven startups.

2. Lineage

• Website: onelineage.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Novi, Michigan, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 4
• LinkedIn: lineage-logistics

Lineage, Inc. is a logistics company specializing in temperature-controlled warehousing and supply chain solutions. Founded in 2012 and based in Novi, Michigan, Lineage operates a vast network of cold storage facilities and transportation services, primarily serving the food industry. The company has significantly expanded its operations through strategic acquisitions, including VersaCold Logistics Services, a leading cold chain provider in Canada, and U.S. Growers Cold Storage, which added eight temperature-controlled warehouses in Southern California. Other notable acquisitions include Henningsen Cold Storage Co., Preferred Freezer Services, and Millard Refrigerated Services, which collectively enhance Lineage's position as a global leader in refrigerated warehousing. These transactions underscore Lineage's focus on optimizing the cold chain from production to delivery, ensuring efficient management of temperature-sensitive products across multiple countries.

3. Plug and Play Tech Center

• Website: plugandplaytechcenter.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Sunnyvale, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 501-1000
• Number of deals in 2024: 253
• LinkedIn: plug-and-play-tech-center

Plug and Play Tech Center is an innovation hub and venture capital firm based in Sunnyvale, California, founded in 2006. They connect startups with corporations to foster growth and innovation, offering various programs including accelerator initiatives and investment opportunities primarily in the technology sector. In recent years, they have been involved in several transactions relevant to the logistics industry, such as their investments in Amitruck, a logistics platform that raised funds in pre-seed rounds, and CloudFret, a SaaS startup focused on logistics solutions. Additionally, their support for Tive, a company specializing in shipment tracking, highlights their engagement in the logistics space, which is crucial for cold chain operations.

4. FJ Labs

• Website: fjlabs.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 169
• LinkedIn: fj-labs

FJ Labs is a venture capital firm based in New York, specializing in investing in marketplace and network effect businesses. Founded in 2015, the firm has built an extensive portfolio of over 1,000 companies, many of which have achieved unicorn status. FJ Labs has been particularly active in the logistics sector, with notable investments in companies like Flexport, which raised $1 billion in a Series D round to enhance its tech capabilities and expand its supply chain expertise. They also participated in earlier funding rounds for Flexport, including a $65 million Series B and a $22.1 million Series A. Additionally, FJ Labs invested in Cargomatic, a logistics company that raised funds in 2022. This focus on logistics startups highlights FJ Labs' commitment to supporting innovative solutions in the supply chain and cold chain logistics space.

5. Tiger Global

• Website: tigerglobal.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 25
• LinkedIn: tiger-global-management

Tiger Global Management, LLC is a prominent investment firm based in New York, specializing in both public and private equity investments. Founded in 2001, the firm manages approximately $50 billion and focuses on innovative companies leveraging technology. Tiger Global's investment portfolio includes significant transactions in the logistics sector, such as a $40 million Series C funding round for Loadshare Networks, a Bengaluru-based logistics and supply chain startup, and a $50 million Series B investment in Cogoport, an Indian logistics marketplace. These investments highlight Tiger Global's commitment to supporting companies that enhance logistics capabilities, which may include cold chain logistics solutions.

6. IFC - International Finance Corporation

• Website: ifc.org
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1956
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 107
• LinkedIn: ifclinkedin

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a not-for-profit organization established in 1956, focused on private sector development in emerging markets. Based in Washington, D.C., IFC provides investment, advisory, and asset management services to businesses and financial institutions, facilitating access to capital and expertise to promote economic growth. IFC operates in over 100 countries, addressing poverty and fostering sustainable development. Notably, IFC has made significant investments in the cold chain logistics sector, including a $9.4 million equity investment in Ifria, a US-based cold chain specialist, aimed at expanding temperature-controlled logistics warehouse facilities in Morocco and Senegal. Additionally, IFC acquired a 20% stake in Building Logistics Services (BLS) in Morocco, further demonstrating its commitment to enhancing cold chain logistics infrastructure. These transactions underscore IFC's strategic focus on improving logistics and supply chain capabilities in emerging markets, particularly in the cold chain sector.

7. Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)

• Website: av.vc
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2023
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 258
• LinkedIn: deep-tech-fund-av-focused-fund

The Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund) is a venture capital firm based in Manchester, New Hampshire, founded in 2023. It provides accredited investors and institutions with access to professionally-managed, diversified venture portfolios, leveraging a network of over 10,000 investors to connect them with high-quality investment opportunities in the startup ecosystem. The fund has been involved in several transactions relevant to the cold chain logistics industry, including a seed round investment in Coldcart, which raised $6,546,893 on June 27, 2024. This investment highlights the fund's commitment to supporting innovative solutions in the cold chain logistics space. Additionally, the fund's participation in other logistics-related companies such as Gatik, OneRail, Flexe, and Logistyx Technologies further demonstrates its engagement in the logistics sector, which is closely tied to cold chain operations.

8. Blackstone

• Website: blackstone.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 57
• LinkedIn: blackstonegroup

Blackstone Inc. is a leading investment management firm based in New York, specializing in alternative investments across various sectors, including private equity, real estate, and credit solutions. Founded in 1985, Blackstone has built a reputation for delivering lasting value through its extensive portfolio and strategic investment approaches. Notably, Blackstone has made significant investments in the cold chain logistics sector, including a $275 million investment in Cryoport, a company focused on temperature-controlled logistics for life sciences. This investment highlights Blackstone's commitment to supporting businesses that require specialized logistics solutions. Additionally, their investment in LifeScience Logistics further underscores their engagement in the cold chain logistics space, as this company provides logistics services tailored to the life sciences industry. These transactions demonstrate Blackstone's strategic interest in the cold chain logistics market, making them a key player in this field.

9. Sosv

• Website: sosv.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 170
• LinkedIn: sosv

SOSV is a venture capital firm founded in 1995, specializing in funding and supporting deep tech startups through its development programs. The firm operates globally, connecting innovative companies with investors and providing resources to help startups grow and succeed. In 2023, Sosv was involved in a significant transaction with Truckistan Technologies, a Pakistan-based tech-enabled less-than-truckload (LTL) company, which secured nearly $1 million in initial funding. This investment highlights Sosv's interest in logistics technology, which can encompass cold chain logistics solutions. Additionally, Sosv has supported other startups like Artyc, although these transactions are not directly related to cold chain logistics. Overall, Sosv's engagement in logistics investments positions it as a potential player in the cold chain logistics sector.

10. Kkr

• Website: kkr.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1976
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 74
• LinkedIn: kkr

KKR & Co. Inc. is a prominent investment firm specializing in private equity, credit, infrastructure, and real estate. Founded in 1976 and based in New York, KKR provides asset management solutions to institutional investors and individual clients, helping them navigate complex investment landscapes and achieve strong financial returns. In recent years, KKR has made significant investments in the logistics sector, including the acquisition of Hitachi Transport System Ltd., which enhances their capabilities in transportation and logistics. They also provided a substantial credit facility to Flexport, a logistics technology company that supports importers and exporters, indicating their commitment to the logistics industry. Furthermore, KKR's acquisition of LEAP India, a pallet pooling platform, aligns with their strategy to invest in infrastructure that supports efficient logistics operations. These transactions highlight KKR's active role in the logistics space, making them a relevant player in the cold chain logistics sector.

11. Goldman Sachs

• Website: goldmansachs.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 59
• LinkedIn: goldman-sachs

Goldman Sachs is a prominent investment bank and financial services firm founded in 1998, headquartered in New York, New York. The firm provides a wide range of services including investment banking, asset management, and wealth management, catering to a diverse clientele that includes corporations, financial institutions, and individuals. In the context of logistics, Goldman Sachs has made significant investments that highlight their interest in the sector. For instance, they participated in a venture round for Mahindra Logistics, which raised approximately $38.2 million in 2017, and invested $48 million in Odyssey Logistics & Technology Corporation in 2014. Additionally, their $170 million investment in Shanghai ANE Logistics in 2015 and the acquisition of Metro International Trade Services for $550 million in 2010 further demonstrate their strategic focus on logistics, potentially including cold chain logistics solutions.

12. Warburg Pincus LLC

• Website: warburgpincus.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1966
• Headcount: 501-1000
• Number of deals in 2024: 24
• LinkedIn: warburg-pincus

Warburg Pincus LLC is a leading global private equity firm specializing in growth investments, founded in 1966 and based in New York, New York. With over $83 billion in assets under management, the firm has a diverse portfolio of more than 225 companies worldwide. Warburg Pincus partners with management teams across various sectors, including healthcare, technology, and financial services, to provide capital and strategic guidance. Notably, they invested $255 million in BlueGrace Logistics in 2016, aimed at fueling rapid growth and strategic acquisitions in the logistics sector. This investment highlights their interest in logistics, which may encompass cold chain logistics operations. Additionally, they have made investments in other logistics-related companies, such as Shanghai ANE Logistics, further demonstrating their engagement in the logistics industry.

13. Endeavor

• Website: endeavor.org
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1997
• Headcount: 501-1000
• Number of deals in 2024: 27
• LinkedIn: endeavor_2

Endeavor is a not-for-profit organization founded in 1997, based in New York, New York, that supports high-impact entrepreneurs through mentorship, education, and investment opportunities. They operate a global network aimed at transforming economies through entrepreneurship, helping businesses scale and create jobs in emerging markets. Endeavor has been involved in various transactions, including investments in logistics-related startups such as Nowports, a digital freight forwarder in Latin America, and OnTruck, a European digital road freight platform. These investments highlight Endeavor's engagement in the logistics sector, which is closely related to cold chain logistics, as these companies facilitate the movement of goods, potentially including temperature-sensitive products.

14. Stonepeak

• Website: stonepeak.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 16
• LinkedIn: stonepeak-partners

Stonepeak is a private equity investment firm based in New York, specializing in infrastructure and real estate investments. Founded in 2011, the firm manages assets on behalf of large institutions, including pension funds and endowments, with a focus on creating value through strategic investments in critical infrastructure that supports daily life. Stonepeak has been actively involved in the cold chain logistics sector, leading significant funding rounds for companies such as Emergent Cold Latin America, which raised $500 million to expand its cold storage network. Additionally, Stonepeak has invested in Lineage Logistics, contributing to its substantial equity raises aimed at enhancing temperature-controlled logistics capabilities. These investments reflect Stonepeak's commitment to driving growth and sustainability in the cold chain logistics space, aligning with its overall investment strategy.

15. UPS Supply Chain Solutions

• Website: ups.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Alpharetta, Georgia, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1907
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn: upssupplychainsolutions

UPS Supply Chain Solutions, a division of United Parcel Service, Inc., is a leading logistics company based in Alpharetta, Georgia, providing comprehensive shipping and supply chain solutions. Founded in 1907, UPS serves a diverse range of customers, including businesses and consumers, through its extensive network that facilitates efficient transportation of goods globally. In recent years, UPS has made significant strides in the cold chain logistics sector, highlighted by its acquisition of Marken, a global provider of supply chain solutions for the life sciences industry, and Biotech & Pharma Logistics, both of which are crucial for managing temperature-sensitive products. Additionally, the acquisition of Frigo Trans further enhances UPS's capabilities in cold chain logistics, positioning them as a key player in this industry. With a focus on leveraging technology and an extensive carrier network, UPS is well-equipped to meet the demands of cold chain logistics.

Cold Chain Logistics Insights: Key Investors in the US

Investor	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Deals 2024
Y Combinator	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2005	802
Lineage	Novi, Michigan, United States (USA)	10001+	2012	4
Plug and Play Tech Center	Sunnyvale, California, United States (USA)	501-1000	2006	253
FJ Labs	New York, New York, United States (USA)	11-50	2015	169
Tiger Global	New York, New York, United States (USA)	51-200	2001	25
IFC - International Finance Corporation	Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1956	107
Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)	Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)	51-200	2023	258
Blackstone	New York, New York, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1985	57
Sosv	United States (USA)	51-200	1995	170
Kkr	New York, New York, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1976	74
Goldman Sachs	New York, New York, United States (USA)	10001+	1998	59
Warburg Pincus LLC	New York, New York, United States (USA)	501-1000	1966	24
Endeavor	New York, New York, United States (USA)	501-1000	1997	27
Stonepeak	New York, New York, United States (USA)	201-500	2011	16
UPS Supply Chain Solutions	Alpharetta, Georgia, United States (USA)	10001+	1907	3

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