Alumni Ventures Invests in Rownd, a Game-Changer in User Authentication
Rownd CEO Robert Thelen Recently Discussed His Company on AV’s Tech Optimist Podcast
![](https://alumniventures.imgix.net/2024/08/Rownd-Product-Illustration.png?auto=format&fit=max&w=3840&q=40)
Alumni Ventures (AV), one of the world’s most active venture capital firms, is a proud investor in Rownd. The company’s privacy platform helps companies register and retain more users through frictionless sign-ins across all of their websites or apps — with one simple code snippet. AV secured an allocation in Rownd’s oversubscribed $2.2 million seed round alongside Uncorrelated Ventures, Y Combinator, AIN, Legal Tech Fund, SaxeCap, Grit Partners, DVC, Asymmetry Ventures, and others.
Co-founded by entrepreneur and Air Force veteran Robert Thelen, Rownd is on a mission to transform the outdated and cumbersome user onboarding process. “User onboarding has remained stagnant for the past 20 years, causing a significant drop-off rate at the login screen,” explained Thelen, who recently discussed his company on AV’s Tech Optimist podcast. “We aim to make it easier for people to access apps, which can lead to substantial outcomes early in the user journey.”
Tech Optimist Episode 32: Meet the Startup Making User Onboarding Easy
See video policy below.
Rownd’s innovative approach allows developers to experiment with and perfect authentication processes, moving them around within the app to optimize user experience. This flexibility is crucial in an era where 50% of users abandon apps at the login screen. By increasing onboarding efficiency, Rownd aims to help businesses retain more users and improve their overall app performance.
Thelen’s extensive background includes eight years in the Air Force, where he managed diverse teams and handled significant responsibilities. After his military service, Thelen earned a business degree from Dartmouth and led product development at IBM before launching Rownd. His unique blend of military discipline and tech expertise drives Rownd’s mission.
“We aim to make it easier for people to access apps, which can lead to substantial outcomes early in the user journey.”
“We’re thrilled to support Robert and and his team in their mission to revolutionize user authentication,” said Alumni Ventures Partner Pete Mathias, who hosted the conversation with Thelen on AV’s Tech Optimist podcast. “Rownd’s innovative solution addresses a critical pain point in the tech industry, and we believe they have the potential to make a significant impact.”
Rownd’s seed financing will accelerate their growth and expand their capabilities in both the commercial and defense sectors. As Thelen noted, “The demand for robust authentication is increasing, not just to enhance user experience but also to protect against cyber threats.”
About Rownd
Rownd is an innovative contextual authentication platform. Brands rely on the Rownd Platform to better align the friction of gathering profile and authentication data with the intrinsic rewards of their app or website. Rownd’s Hub can be implemented on any website in seconds with an easy-to-use code snippet. With 12+ SDKs for backend, web app, and mobile app implementations, Rownd provides a “batteries included” system that spans a company’s ecosystem. This creates a cohesive and well-rounded experience for new and returning users alike.
About Alumni Ventures
Alumni Ventures offers accredited individuals access to professional-grade venture capital, a key asset class missing from the portfolios of many sophisticated investors. Since 2014, AV has raised $1.3+ billion from 10,000+ investors and backed 1,300+ unique portfolio companies. AV is a top 20 VC firm in North America according to CB Insights and the #1 most active VC firm in the U.S., and #3 most active in the world, according to PitchBook’s 2022 and 2023 rankings. AV has won awards from Inc. Magazine, Fast Company, Benzinga, and the US FinTech Awards. AV funds are private, for-profit, and not affiliated with or sanctioned by any school.
About Tech Optimist
The Tech Optimist Podcast, presented by Alumni Ventures (AV), focuses on the intersection of technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation. True to our name, we are passionate about technology and its potential to drive positive change. We explore our lane through interviews with founders, investors, and futurists; discussions of new innovations; and reviews of trends in tech and venture capital. Subscribe Here »
Media Contact Info
Scott Murphy
Alumni Ventures
670 N. Commercial Street, Suite 403
Manchester, NH 03101
Email: [email protected]
Want to learn more?
View all our available funds and secure data rooms, or schedule an intro call.
New to AV?
Sign up and access exclusive venture content.
Contact [email protected] for additional information. To see additional risk factors and investment considerations, visit av-funds.com/disclosures.