The video game sound design industry in the U.S. focuses on creating immersive audio experiences that enhance gameplay. Companies range from independent sound studios to large game developers, all aiming to provide quality soundscapes that engage players. With the rise of virtual reality and augmented reality, sound design has become more vital than ever, as it deeply affects player engagement and emotional connection. As gaming becomes increasingly sophisticated, there's a growing push for interactive audio that adapts in real-time based on player decisions and game scenarios, highlighting sound's role not just as a backdrop, but as an integral part of gameplay.


This list features 16 significant investors in the video game sound design sector. They include established venture capital firms, such as Y Combinator and Accel, along with newer entrants like The Deep Tech Fund. Headquartered mainly in California and New York, these firms are instrumental in funding innovative projects. They range in size from small partnerships to larger capital firms. With a total of 1,250 investments recorded in 2024 alone, their backing can dramatically impact the development of interactive audio solutions in gaming.


Top 16 Video Game Sound Design 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, helping entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses through structured programs and resources like the Startup School. Y Combinator has successfully launched over 4,000 startups, establishing itself as a key player in the technology startup ecosystem. Among its notable investments, Y Combinator has backed companies like Niantic, known for its groundbreaking augmented reality games, and Spellbrush, which raised $120,000 to develop creative tools for game development. Other investments include Museum of Future Experiences and Ramen VR, both of which explore innovative experiences that could intersect with gaming and sound design. These transactions highlight Y Combinator's engagement with the gaming industry, particularly in areas that may involve sound design.


2. BITKRAFT Ventures

  • Website: bitkraft.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Denver, Colorado, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2017
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 26
  • LinkedIn: bitkraftvc

BITKRAFT Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2017 and based in Denver, Colorado. The firm specializes in investments in gaming and emerging technologies, providing funding and support to startups in these sectors. BITKRAFT Ventures is particularly focused on Synthetic Reality™, positioning itself at the forefront of innovation in the gaming industry. Notable transactions include their investment in Voicemod, a Valencian company specializing in AI voice modification software, which raised $14.5 million in a funding round that highlights the intersection of technology and sound design. Additionally, they invested in Lost Lake Games, a Seattle startup that raised $5 million, further demonstrating their commitment to the gaming sector. Their portfolio reflects a strong alignment with the needs of video game sound design, making them a significant player in this space.


3. Makers Fund

  • Website: makersfund.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2017
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 10
  • LinkedIn: makersfund

Makers Fund is a venture capital firm founded in 2017, based in the United States, that focuses on investing in startups within the gaming and interactive entertainment sectors. The firm provides capital, strategic guidance, and access to a global network to help visionary entrepreneurs navigate early-stage challenges. Notably, Makers Fund has participated in significant funding rounds for companies like AudioMob, which raised $14 million in a Series A round to develop its audio technology for gaming, and Klang Games, which raised $22.33 million in Series B funding for its upcoming title Seed. These investments highlight Makers Fund's commitment to enhancing audio experiences in gaming, making them a relevant player in the video game sound design industry.


4. 500 Global

  • Website: 500.co
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 98
  • LinkedIn: 500-startups

500 Global is a venture capital firm and startup accelerator based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, providing not only funding but also mentorship and resources to help founders scale their businesses. Among their notable transactions, they have invested in Audiodraft, which raised $400,000 to enhance its audio solutions, directly relevant to sound design in video games. Additionally, they have invested in Tamatem Games, a mobile games publisher that has raised significant funding, indicating their commitment to the gaming industry. These investments highlight 500 Global's focus on innovative startups, including those that contribute to the video game sound design landscape.


5. Intel Capital

  • Website: intelcapital.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Santa Clara, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1991
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 23
  • LinkedIn: intelcapital

Intel Capital is a venture capital firm based in Santa Clara, California, founded in 1991. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, with a focus on areas such as AI, cloud computing, and semiconductor technologies. Intel Capital provides funding, strategic support, and access to Intel's extensive resources to help startups scale and innovate within the tech ecosystem. Notably, Intel Capital has made significant investments in the gaming industry, including Winking Entertainment, which raised $8 million in Series B funding in 2007, and Kabam, which raised $85 million in Series D funding in 2011. Additionally, their investment in Inworld AI, a company developing AI-driven virtual characters, highlights their interest in technologies that can enhance gaming experiences, including sound design. These transactions demonstrate Intel Capital's active role in supporting companies that contribute to the video game industry.


6. 1Up Ventures

  • Website: 1upfund.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Kirkland, Washington, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2019
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 7
  • LinkedIn: 1upfund

1Up Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2019, based in Kirkland, Washington, that specializes in supporting independent game developers. With a focus on providing both financial investment and community support, 1Up Ventures aims to help studios grow and succeed in the competitive gaming industry. They have participated in several notable funding rounds, including a $5 million seed round for Sprocket Games, which emphasizes inclusivity and diversity in game development. Additionally, they were involved in the funding of Lost Lake Games, a Seattle startup that raised $5 million, and The Believer Company, which secured $55 million in Series A funding. These transactions highlight their active role in the gaming sector, particularly in supporting studios that may incorporate sound design into their projects.


7. Galaxy Interactive


Galaxy Interactive is a venture capital firm founded in 2018, based in New York City, that focuses on investments in the interactive space, including gaming, media, and technology. They provide capital and expertise to innovative startups, helping them grow in a competitive market. Notable transactions include leading a $40 million Series B funding round for Bad Robot Games, the video game division of J.J. Abrams' company, which indicates their commitment to high-profile gaming projects. They also participated in a $9 million Series B investment in Polyarc, the studio behind the acclaimed VR game Moss, which emphasizes emotional feedback and player interaction—elements closely tied to sound design. Additionally, they led an $8 million Series A funding round for Nekcom, a US video game developer, which aims to accelerate game development and R&D. These investments highlight Galaxy Interactive's active role in the gaming industry, making them a relevant player in the video game sound design sector.


8. 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, part of Alumni Ventures, is a venture capital firm founded in 2023, based in Manchester, New Hampshire. It provides accredited investors and institutions with access to diversified venture portfolios, leveraging a network of over 10,000 investors to connect them with high-quality investment opportunities. The fund has been actively involved in the gaming sector, participating in notable transactions such as Barnyard Games, which raised $3.4 million to develop games using Unreal Engine for Fortnite, and Sinn Studio Inc., which raised $2.5 million. Additionally, the fund is linked to The Believer Company, founded by former Riot executives, showcasing its engagement with innovative gaming projects. These investments highlight the fund's commitment to supporting the gaming industry, including aspects related to sound design.


9. Griffin

  • Website: griffingp.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2019
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: griffin-gaming-partners

Griffin Gaming Partners is a venture capital firm founded in 2019, located in Santa Monica, California. The firm specializes in the gaming industry, providing investment and advisory services to startups at various stages of development. In 2024 alone, Griffin has made three investments, showcasing their active role in the gaming sector. Notable transactions include leading a $10.5 million funding round for Neon Media, the studio behind the blockchain-based first-person shooter game Shrapnel, and a $3 million seed funding round for Harmony Games, which aims to expand its presence in the mobile market. Additionally, Griffin led a $5.2 million seed funding round for Hardball Games, which is focused on developing multiplayer IP. These investments highlight Griffin's commitment to supporting innovative gaming projects, which likely involve sound design as a key element of game development.


10. SV Angel

  • Website: svangel.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2009
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 44
  • LinkedIn: sv-angel

SV Angel is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2009. They specialize in early-stage and growth-stage investments, primarily in the technology sector. SV Angel aims to support founders by providing financial backing, strategic advice, and access to a vast network of industry experts. Notably, they have invested in several prominent companies within the video game industry, including Zynga, which raised $10 million in its Series A round in 2008, and Manticore Games, which received a total of $45 million across multiple funding rounds from 2017 to 2019. Additionally, their investment in Twitch during its Seed Round highlights their engagement with platforms that are integral to the gaming community. This track record of investing in gaming-related companies positions SV Angel as a relevant player in the video game sound design space.


11. Boost VC

  • Website: boost.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Mateo, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2012
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 18
  • LinkedIn: boost-vc

Boost VC is a venture capital firm founded in 2012, located in San Mateo, California. The firm specializes in connecting accredited investors with innovative deep tech startups through events like the Deep Tech Demo Day. Boost VC has a diverse portfolio, with a focus on high-tech industries, including video games. Notably, they have invested in Melodrive Inc., which is known for its AI-driven music generation technology, relevant to video game sound design. They also participated in funding rounds for Pixel Ripped, a game that integrates nostalgic gameplay with modern sound design elements. Their investment in Alta, a virtual reality metaverse studio, further showcases their commitment to supporting companies that are likely to explore advanced sound design techniques in immersive gaming experiences. In 2024, they invested in Sinn Studio Inc., which may also contribute to the video game sound design landscape.


12. 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. With a global reach, Sosv connects innovative companies with investors, providing venture capital investment and resources to help startups grow in various sectors, including health and climate technology. Notably, Sosv has made significant investments in the video game sound design context, particularly with Harmonix Music Systems, which raised funds in multiple rounds from 1996 to 2015. Harmonix is renowned for its work in music-based video games, highlighting Sosv's involvement in the gaming sound industry. More recently, Sosv invested in MixRift, a startup that raised funds in 2024, potentially indicating ongoing interest in the intersection of technology and sound in gaming.


13. Samsung Next

  • Website: samsungnext.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Mountain View, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2012
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 49
  • LinkedIn: samsung-next

Samsung Next is a venture capital firm based in Mountain View, California, founded in 2012. The firm invests in technology startups across various sectors, including Artificial Intelligence, Healthtech, and Consumer Services. Notably, Samsung Next has made significant investments in the video game industry, particularly in companies like Survios, which develops VR titles such as The Walking Dead: Onslaught and Creed: Rise to Glory, and Baobab Studios, known for its innovative animated VR experiences. In 2020, Samsung Next participated in a $16.7 million funding round for Survios, and they also invested in Baobab Studios during their Series A and B funding rounds, totaling $31 million. These transactions highlight Samsung Next's active role in supporting companies that are likely to prioritize sound design in their gaming products, positioning them as a key player in the video game sound design investment landscape.


14. Accel

  • Website: accel.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Palo Alto, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1983
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 101
  • LinkedIn: accel-vc

Accel is a venture capital firm founded in 1983, based in Palo Alto, California, specializing in investing in startups and early-stage companies primarily in the technology sector. With a global presence that includes offices in London, India, and China, Accel has made significant investments in the gaming industry. Notable transactions include a $42 million investment in Rovio Entertainment, the developer of 'Angry Birds', and a $12 million investment in Supercell, known for its innovative mobile games. Additionally, Accel participated in funding rounds for Space Ape Games and Flaregames, further demonstrating its active role in supporting companies that contribute to the gaming ecosystem, including aspects like sound design.


15. Epic Games

  • Website: epicgames.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Cary, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1991
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 6
  • LinkedIn: epic-games

Epic Games, Inc. is a prominent video game developer and software publisher based in Cary, North Carolina, founded in 1991. Known for developing the Unreal Engine and popular titles like Fortnite, Epic Games serves both game developers and consumers by providing tools for game creation and entertainment. In recent years, Epic has made significant acquisitions that enhance its capabilities in sound design and music integration. Notably, the acquisition of Harmonix Music Systems in November 2021 aims to improve musical experiences in Fortnite and support existing titles like Rock Band 4. This move highlights Epic's focus on sound design within its gaming ecosystem. Additionally, their acquisition of Cubic Motion, which specializes in realistic facial animations, indicates a commitment to enhancing the overall gaming experience, including sound and music integration. Other acquisitions, such as Psyonix (developer of Rocket League) and Tonic Games Group (maker of Fall Guys), further demonstrate Epic's strategy to bolster its portfolio with studios that can contribute to innovative sound design and musical elements in gaming.


16. Gaingels

  • Website: gaingels.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Burlington, Vermont, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 60
  • LinkedIn: gaingels

Gaingels is a venture capital firm founded in 2015, based in Burlington, Vermont, dedicated to investing in companies with diverse leadership. They provide capital and support to startups, particularly those led by underrepresented groups, to foster diversity and inclusion in the innovation economy. In the gaming sector, Gaingels has participated in several notable transactions, including a $10.85 million seed funding round for Playgig, a cross-platform gaming studio, and a $5 million seed round for Sprocket Games, which promotes inclusivity in game development. Their investments also include Overplay, which aims to introduce a new era of interactive media. These transactions highlight Gaingels' active role in the gaming industry, particularly in supporting companies that may focus on sound design and overall game development.



Video Game Sound Design Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Y CombinatorSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)51-2002005802
BITKRAFT VenturesDenver, Colorado, United States (USA)11-50201726
Makers FundUnited States (USA)11-50201710
500 GlobalSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)201-500201098
Intel CapitalSanta Clara, California, United States (USA)11-50199123
1Up VenturesKirkland, Washington, United States (USA)1-1020197
Galaxy InteractiveNew York, New York, United States (USA)11-50201811
Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)51-2002023258
GriffinSanta Monica, California, United States (USA)11-5020193
SV AngelSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)1-10200944
Boost VCSan Mateo, California, United States (USA)1-10201218
SosvUnited States (USA)51-2001995170
Samsung NextMountain View, California, United States (USA)51-200201249
AccelPalo Alto, California, United States (USA)51-2001983101
Epic GamesCary, North Carolina, United States (USA)1001-500019916
GaingelsBurlington, Vermont, United States (USA)11-50201560


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