Open Core Ventures (OCV) is handbook first and public by default. Our handbook is continuously updated to reflect the current status of operations and is subject to change. OCV founders and team members should check the handbook frequently for the most up-to-date information. We document our policies, processes, and points of view in our public handbook so people outside of OCV can benefit from it. Avoid unstructured content when contributing to the handbook.
This is a public handbook. Do not add personal or confidential information. For security reasons, we do not name our internal systems, vendors, or list direct contact details. This document should not be relied on for legal, investment, or tax advice.
OCV Vision and Mission
Open Core Ventures forms new open core companies around existing open source software projects. OCV operates differently from traditional investor firms, incubators, and studios. Founders should familiarize themselves with OCV’s business model to ensure alignment before signing an offer letter. OCV does not invest in existing companies.
Founder Resources
Working with OCV
Prospective Founders
Founder Onboarding
First WeekBoard of Directors and Board ApprovalOffice HoursGoal SettingMonthly Investor UpdatesFundraising
Building BlocksFundraisingProduct
Licensing & Distribution Commercial MVPFinding Product Market FitGrowth
PricingMarketing SalesLegal & Compliance
Legal TeamBoard Meetings and Annual Meeting MinutesPrivacy PolicySubscription AgreementsTrademark ProtectionTerms of UseCompliance RequirementsOCV Support Scope
CTO Founder OutreachFormation StagePre-Seed (First 18-24 Months)Growth Stage (Post-External Funding)Vendor Deals for OCV CompaniesHiring
First Hires Recruiting for OCV CompaniesCo-Founder InterviewsAdvisorsGlobal Workforce ConsiderationsProspective CEOsPeople Operations
Compensation & BenefitsOnboarding PayrollPublic Handbook & TemplatePhishing/Sexual Harassment Prevention TrainingPerformance EvaluationStock OptionsTeam ClassificationTerminationsTracking Employee PTOFinance & Tax
Finance Operations for OCV CompaniesRunway & Operating BudgetQSBSSecurity
SecurityOCV Employees
How the OCV firm operates excluding the interaction with the outside world and the portfolio companies. This section defines processes and procedures for the OCV team.