Brick & Mortar Ventures

Overview

Brick & Mortar Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2015, headquartered in San Francisco, that invests in early-stage startups developing software and hardware for architecture, engineering, construction, and facilities management sectors.¹²³⁴ It manages around $97 million in assets, has made 71 investments across stages from pre-seed to growth equity, and maintains a network of limited partners including Autodesk, Hilti, and Cemex.¹ The firm is recognized as the first dedicated construction-tech VC, with notable exits like PlanGrid, Levelset, Fieldwire, and BuildingConnected.¹²

History

Darren Bechtel founded Brick & Mortar Ventures in 2015 to invest in technology for the built world, drawing from his experience in venture investing, engineering, and operating in AEC and medical device industries.¹²³⁴ The firm has achieved exits with portfolio companies including PlanGrid, Levelset, Fieldwire, and BuildingConnected.¹² It continues active investing in North America-focused construction tech startups, managing $97 million in assets across 71 investments.¹

Notable Products

• PlanGrid - Digital blueprints and construction management software, achieved successful exit.
• Fieldwire - Construction management software, achieved successful exit.
• BuildingConnected - Construction bidding and subcontractor management platform, achieved successful exit.
• Levelset - Lien waiver management and payment compliance tools, achieved successful exit.
• SafeAI - Developer of autonomous construction equipment.
• Curbio - Provider of pre-sale home renovation services.

Reputation

Brick & Mortar Ventures is perceived as a specialized leader in construction-tech investing, valued for its industry expertise, hands-on support, and LP network providing customer access.¹² Professionals note its successful exits and focus on the 'built world' as strengths.¹² The firm employs a small team of around 12-26, led by experienced partners like Darren Bechtel.²³ No major criticisms appear in available sources.