The online car rental industry in the US offers quick and flexible solutions for consumers needing transportation. Companies typically range from traditional car rental services to innovative peer-to-peer platforms that allow individuals to rent their vehicles. Major players like Turo and Getaround reflect a shift towards sharing economies and digital platforms, reshaping how people access mobility. Additionally, advancements in technology, such as app-based convenience, are driving growth in this space. With focus on sustainability and evolving user preferences, the industry aims to become more integrated with on-demand services, ultimately transforming car rental into a more accessible experience.

The investors profiled here include a mix of venture capital firms and private equity giants, primarily located in New York and California. Ranging in size from startups to major players with thousands of employees, these firms were founded between 1972 and 2023. In 2024, they collectively made numerous investments, with notable activity in the online car rental space. Firms like Goldman Sachs and Y Combinator are key players, showcasing robust investor interest in innovative car rental solutions.

Top 18 Online Car Rental 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 helps entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses. Y Combinator has successfully launched over 4,000 startups, making it a key player in the technology startup ecosystem. Among its notable investments in the online car rental space are Kovi, which raised $30 million in a Series A round in November 2019, and Drivezy, which received $10 million in funding in October 2017 to expand its market presence. These transactions highlight Y Combinator's active role in supporting innovative solutions within the online car rental industry.

2. 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 invested in Drivemate, a platform that facilitates car rentals by connecting car owners with renters, which aligns with the online car rental industry. Additionally, they have invested in Telgani and Esar, which, while not directly related to car rentals, showcase their focus on innovative startups. With a count of 98 investments in 2024 alone, 500 Global is actively seeking opportunities across various sectors, including those relevant to online car rentals.

3. 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, founded in 2015, that specializes in investing in marketplace and network effect businesses. They provide capital and strategic guidance to entrepreneurs across various industries, including e-commerce and logistics. With a portfolio of over 1,000 companies, many of which have achieved unicorn status, FJ Labs has demonstrated a strong track record in supporting innovative startups. Notably, they have invested in Kyte, an on-demand car rental service, participating in both seed and Series B funding rounds, which collectively raised significant capital to expand their fleet and market presence. This involvement in the online car rental sector highlights FJ Labs' interest and expertise in this area, further solidifying their position as a relevant investor in the online car rental industry.

4. 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 based in New York, founded in 1998. It offers a wide range of services including investment banking, asset management, and wealth management, catering to a diverse clientele. Notably, Goldman Sachs has been active in the online car rental space, having invested in Kyte, an on-demand car rental company, which secured $200 million in funding from them to expand its fleet. This investment highlights their commitment to the evolving car rental market. Additionally, their involvement in funding mobility companies like Bolt and Uber further demonstrates their strategic interest in the transportation sector, which encompasses online car rental services.

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 client base includes institutional investors and high-net-worth individuals seeking expert investment management and advisory services. Notably, Tiger Global has made substantial investments in Ola, a leading ride-hailing service, with transactions including a $500 million investment in Series F in November 2015, a $400 million investment in Series E in April 2015, and several other rounds totaling over $1.5 billion. These investments highlight Tiger Global's commitment to the mobility sector, which intersects with the online car rental industry.

6. 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 a diverse portfolio. Notably, they participated in the Series A and Series B funding rounds for Campanda, an international platform for motorhome and campervan rentals, contributing to a total of €17 million in investments. Additionally, Accel has invested in Ola, a prominent ride-hailing service, and BlaBlaCar, a long-distance carpooling service, further showcasing their interest in the mobility and transportation sectors.

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

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. With a network of over 10,000 investors, the firm focuses on connecting them with high-quality investment opportunities in the startup ecosystem. Notably, the fund has participated in significant transactions within the online car rental space, including investments in Getaround, which raised $140 million in Series E financing and $300 million in Series D financing, and Kyte, an on-demand car rental service that raised $60 million in Series B financing. These investments highlight the fund's active role in supporting innovative solutions in the car rental industry.

8. 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, helping them access capital and expertise to foster economic growth. Operating in over 100 countries, IFC addresses challenges of poverty and promotes sustainable development. Notably, IFC has invested in several companies relevant to the online car rental and mobility sector, including Bolt, a ride-hailing service that raised $24 million for expansion in emerging markets, and Moove, which secured $20 million in debt financing. These transactions highlight IFC's commitment to supporting innovative transportation solutions, making it a significant player in the online car rental investment landscape.

9. 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. With a global network aimed at transforming economies through entrepreneurship, Endeavor helps businesses scale and create jobs in emerging markets. Notably, Endeavor has been involved in several transactions relevant to the online car rental industry, including a $100 million investment in Kovi, a car subscription startup, and participation in funding rounds for FlexClub, a South African car subscription marketplace. These investments highlight Endeavor's commitment to fostering innovation and growth in the car rental sector, alongside their broader mission of supporting diverse entrepreneurial ventures.

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 based in New York, specializing in private equity, credit, infrastructure, and real estate. Founded in 1976, KKR has established itself as a global leader in asset management, providing tailored investment solutions to institutional and individual clients. In recent years, KKR has been involved in several notable transactions within the online car rental and transportation sectors. For instance, KKR participated in a significant funding round for Revel, a car subscription startup from Spain, which raised $123 million to expand its car network. This investment included a combination of debt and equity, showcasing KKR's commitment to supporting innovative transportation solutions. Additionally, KKR has invested in Lyft, a major player in the ride-sharing market, further solidifying its presence in the transportation industry. These transactions highlight KKR's strategic focus on the evolving landscape of mobility and car rental services.

11. 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, based in the United States, that specializes in funding and supporting deep tech startups through its development programs. The firm provides venture capital investment and resources to help startups in various sectors, including health and climate technology, grow and succeed. Notably, Sosv has been actively involved in the online car rental industry through its investments in Getaround, a leading car-sharing platform. They participated in several funding rounds for Getaround, including a $24 million Series B in November 2014, a $10 million Series C in October 2016, a $300 million Series D in August 2018, and additional convertible notes in 2020 and 2021. This involvement highlights Sosv's commitment to the online car rental space, connecting innovative companies with investors globally.

12. Morgan Stanley

• Website: morganstanley.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 79
• LinkedIn: morgan-stanley

Morgan Stanley is a prominent investment bank and financial services firm founded in 1986, headquartered in New York, New York. With a workforce exceeding 10,000 employees, the firm provides a wide array of services including wealth management, investment banking, and capital markets. Morgan Stanley has a global presence and leverages its expertise to offer tailored financial solutions to individuals, families, corporations, and governments. In the context of the online car rental industry, Morgan Stanley has made notable investments, including a $24 million Series C investment in Enterprise Rent-A-Car in 2000, which underscores their commitment to the sector. Furthermore, their acquisition of a majority stake in Zenith Vehicle Contracts Group Limited in 2010 reflects their strategic interest in vehicle rental services. These transactions illustrate Morgan Stanley's active participation in the online car rental market, alongside their broader investment portfolio.

13. New Enterprise Associates (NEA)

• Website: nea.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1977
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 57
• LinkedIn: new-enterprise-associates

New Enterprise Associates (NEA) is a prominent venture capital firm based in Menlo Park, California, founded in 1977. NEA specializes in investment management and advisory services for startups, particularly in technology and healthcare sectors. The firm is known for its collaborative approach, emphasizing long-term relationships with entrepreneurs. NEA has been involved in several notable transactions relevant to the online car rental industry, including a significant $1.2 billion investment in Uber in December 2014, a leading ride-hailing service that has ventured into car rentals. Additionally, NEA participated in a $1.7 million seed round for Fluid Truck in November 2016, a company that provides truck rental services, further showcasing their engagement in the vehicle rental market. These investments highlight NEA's strategic focus on mobility and transportation, aligning with the interests of online car rental businesses.

14. 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. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage and growth-stage technology companies, providing not only financial backing but also strategic advice and access to a vast network of industry experts. SV Angel's mission is to foster innovation and help startups navigate the challenges of business development. Notably, they have invested in companies like Luxe, which raised $20 million in Series A funding in 2015, and Metromile, which raised $96 million in Series D funding in 2016, as well as $4 million in Series A funding in 2011. These transactions highlight SV Angel's engagement in the transportation sector, making them a relevant player in the online car rental industry.

15. Kleiner Perkins

• Website: kleinerperkins.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1972
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 38
• LinkedIn: kleiner-perkins

Kleiner Perkins is a venture capital firm based in Menlo Park, California, founded in 1972. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage and growth companies, particularly in the technology and life sciences sectors. With a portfolio of over 900 ventures, Kleiner Perkins has established itself as a key player in the venture capital landscape. Notably, they have invested in Turo, a leading peer-to-peer car-sharing platform, participating in significant funding rounds such as a $47 million Series C in 2015 and a $92 million Series D in 2017. These investments highlight their commitment to the online car rental industry and their strategic support for companies that enhance customer experiences and expand into new markets.

16. General Catalyst

• Website: generalcatalyst.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 144
• LinkedIn: general-catalyst-partners

General Catalyst is a venture capital firm founded in 2000, based in San Francisco, California. The firm specializes in early-stage and growth investments, providing capital and strategic guidance to startups and growth-stage companies across various industries, including technology and healthcare. Notably, General Catalyst has invested in Getaround, a peer-to-peer car sharing service that raised $3.4 million in seed funding with their participation. They also invested in inDrive, which raised significant funding in both Series C and debt financing rounds, indicating their commitment to companies operating in the car rental and ride-sharing space. Their involvement in these transactions highlights their active role in the online car rental industry, making them a relevant investor in this category.

17. Liquid 2 Ventures

• Website: liquid2.vc
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 91
• LinkedIn: liquid-2-ventures

Liquid 2 Ventures is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in investing in technology startups at the pre-seed and seed stages, as well as growth-stage companies. They provide capital, mentorship, and access to a vast network of industry insiders to help founders navigate their entrepreneurial journeys. Notable transactions include investments in Kovi, a car rental service, and Yoshi, which offers gas delivery services and plans to expand into various auto-related services. Their involvement in these sectors indicates a broader interest in the automotive and mobility landscape, making them a supportive partner for startups in the online car rental industry.

18. 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 founded in 1966, based in New York, specializing in growth investments across various sectors, including healthcare, technology, and financial services. With over $83 billion in assets under management, the firm has a diverse portfolio of more than 225 companies worldwide. Notably, Warburg Pincus has invested in several companies within the transportation and mobility sectors, such as Ola, which raised $500 million in 2021, and eDaijia, which secured $100 million in 2015. Additionally, they have invested in Meituan Bike and Gojek, both of which are significant players in the on-demand transportation market. These transactions highlight Warburg Pincus's commitment to investing in innovative mobility solutions, aligning them with the online car rental industry.

Online Car Rental Insights: Key Investors in the US

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