

menlo labs
We Build Around Big Ideas
about
Menlo Labs Helps Talented Builders Start Exceptional Companies
If you’re a builder aspiring to create an iconic company in a large and important sector, Menlo Labs is the place for you. Here, you’ll have the full support of our specialized Labs team and Menlo Ventures’ investment partners as you build a high-confidence path toward solving a significant, unmet need. We provide market insights, customer discovery expertise, and operational experience, while you lead the execution. Together, this collaboration is where the magic happens.
How We Work and Invest
Ideation
<1 year. Any concept we pursue must solve a precise problem affecting a large population. We only move forward knowing that a sizable market opportunity exists, allowing us to launch the business
with precision.
Validation
2-6 months. We work with founders to develop product roadmaps, organizational plans, go-to-market strategies, and budgets.
Execution
12-18 months. We assemble the founding team, recruit the early employees, and stand up the back office with our “startup ops in a box.”
How We Work With Founders
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01
Pick a big problem
Great companies solve important problems for A LOT of customers. In collaboration with Menlo’s investment team that is constantly evaluating the best private companies, we ensure you zero in on a problem worth solving.
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02
Validate the need
No business plan survives first customers. Our validation experts embrace a structured customer discovery process, transforming hypotheses into demonstrated customer needs through primary research with end users. Our vast network of investors, portfolio companies, industry experts and research resources accelerates the process.
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03
Identify a wedge
Finding product-market fit is the hardest part of any startup journey. Our team helps you quickly explore and test a range of mission-aligned MVPs with target customers, increasing the odds that “when you build it, they will come.”
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04
Build your team
All great startups require the efforts of world-class teammates and collaborators. Our talent team and recruiter network help you identify and attract world-class co-founders and early team members.
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05
Land first customers
To really test, iterate on, and scale an idea, you need customers. We work closely with you to land your first set of customers, ensuring you’re set up for success.
Our Companies
Built from scratch, built to scale.


Milestones
Leadership



Partners


Milestones
Leadership

Partners


Milestones
Leadership



Partners


Milestones
Leadership
Partners
