Slow Ventures cuts first check from $60M creator fund into woodworking founder

Slow Ventures has announced its first investment from its newly launched $60 million Creator Fund, directing $2 million into the hands of Jonathan Katz-Moses, a well-known woodworking influencer. With a following of approximately 600,000 and nearly 75 million views on his videos, Katz-Moses has successfully transitioned from content creation to entrepreneurship, establishing his own line of woodworking tools. The Creator Fund aims to empower influencers to build their businesses, leveraging the skills that made them successful in the digital space. According to Billy Parks, a partner at Slow Ventures and the lead investor on this deal, the role of creators has evolved significantly over the past decade. Instead of merely focusing on media and sponsorships, many creators are now intent on developing substantial, off-platform enterprises. Parks noted that the pandemic served as a catalyst for direct-to-consumer business growth, but emphasized that the true indicators of success lie with those who have managed to sustain and expand their ventures post-pandemic. He highlights that an effective creator-founder operates with an entrepreneurial mindset, prioritizing the creation of genuine businesses over the pursuit of fame. Katz-Moses exemplifies this model, as his woodworking tutorials have paved the way for him to market his tools and accessories. With a dedicated team supporting business operations and content creation, the recent funding from Slow Ventures will bolster his ongoing projects and entrepreneurial pursuits. Katz-Moses's journey into woodworking began after a life-altering incident in 2010, where he was assaulted and left with severe injuries. In a recent video, he recounted waking up in a pool of blood surrounded by emergency responders, marking the moment as a significant turning point in his life. Determined to follow his passion, he began posting his woodworking projects on YouTube, quickly amassing a devoted audience. After going through a rigorous selection process among 700 applicants, Katz-Moses expressed excitement when Parks reached out to discuss his business further. Parks recalls their meeting at Katz-Moses's extensive workshop in Santa Barbara, where he was impressed by Katz-Moses's dedication and vision for a scaled business. The Creator Fund at Slow Ventures reflects a growing trend of investment in the creator economy, as firms seek to collaborate with influential figures who are becoming increasingly adept at business. Parks emphasized the importance of partnering with creators who are focused on specialized niches, rather than broad entertainment, to cultivate businesses with strong foundations and sustainable growth. Since receiving the investment, Katz-Moses has been proactive in advancing his business, hiring product developers, applying for patents, and exploring new product opportunities. He remains committed to sharing educational content about woodworking, with a primary focus on enhancing his presence on YouTube while also expanding to other platforms.