Nicholas Chirls

Partner at Notation Capital in Brooklyn, NY

Nicholas Chirls is a Partner at Notation Capital, a venture capital firm based in Brooklyn, New York. He has been with Notation Capital since its founding in November 2014, focusing on early-stage investments, particularly in pre-seed and seed companies. Notation Capital is recognized as one of the first dedicated pre-seed funds in New York, emphasizing investments in innovative and emerging markets.1 2

Professional Background

Before joining Notation Capital, Chirls served as the Head of Investments at Betaworks from September 2011 to August 2014, where he led seed investments. His earlier roles include Head of Business Development at HappyFunCorp and a Trader at Lehman Brothers.1 4 Chirls co-founded TwoSeed, a company that provided community engagement platforms, from 2009 to 2011.1 3

Education

Chirls holds a Bachelor's degree from Yale University (2003-2007) and a Master's degree in Technology and Business from The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (2009-2010).1 4

Investment Philosophy

Chirls is known for his interest in investing in "too early" startups, believing that significant opportunities often lie in markets that are not yet fully developed. He aims to build a portfolio of companies that are fundamentally new and anticipates market growth within a few years.2 Notation Capital has completed several funds, with their current Fund III totaling $45 million.2

In addition to his role at Notation, Chirls hosts the podcast Origins, which explores venture capital from the perspective of Limited Partners.2 3

Highlights

Oct 17 · twitter

Going to the Billie show tonight - who’s with me?

Oct 3 · twitter

Yo NYC

We're adding a team member at @asylumventures - someone obsessed with the art of making companies and wants to help us provide an alternative to the big venture bankers.

Holler if you are someone you know is interested

hiring@asylum.vc

May 4 · Forbes

The 2023 Midas Brink List: Venture's Up-And-Coming Investors ... - Forbes

Jul 30 · TechCrunch

NYC pre-seed powerhouse Notation has a new fund and a new community for founders - TechCrunch

Experience

Partner at Notation Capital (November 2014 - Present)

Head of Investments at betaworks (September 2011 - August 2014); Head of Business Development at HappyFunCorp (November 2010 - November 2011); Co-Founder at TwoSeed (2009 - 2011); Trader at Lehman Brothers (June 2007 - February 2009)

Education

BA from Yale University (2003 - 2007); Master's Degree in Technology and Business from The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (2009 - 2010)