Expansion-Stage Software Investor: Updata’s Jon Seeber
Mar 26, 2025
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Jon Seeber, General Partner at Updata Partners, shares insights from his 20+ years in the software industry. He discusses the dynamic growth equity landscape in D.C., emphasizing strategic partnerships with management teams of B2B software firms. A case study on Viewpoint Construction Software illustrates how operational expertise fuels success. Jon also highlights the importance of teamwork, drawing parallels with his wrestling background, and reflects on the value of community, showcasing Updata's support for the Washington Nationals Youth Baseball Academy.
Updata Partners focuses exclusively on high-growth B2B software companies, targeting those with proven product-market fit and over 50% growth.
The firm's hands-on approach to value creation emphasizes collaboration with management teams while also supporting community initiatives like the Washington Nationals Youth Baseball Academy.
Deep dives
The Ecosystem of Growth Equity in D.C.
The growth equity landscape in the D.C. metropolitan area boasts a strong ecosystem supported by several prominent private equity firms. Updata Partners has been a significant player in this space for over 25 years, focusing on technology investments and partnering with various entrepreneurs. Although the area's technology sector has evolved, it remains a vital component of the private equity scene. The continuous presence of firms like Carlyle and Revolution underscores the longevity and resilience of this sector in D.C.
Differentiating Factors for Updata Partners
Updata distinguishes itself in the competitive growth equity market by concentrating exclusively on high-growth B2B software companies that have bootstrapped successfully. The firm particularly targets businesses that have achieved significant scale, typically showing over 50% growth when Updata invests, ensuring they focus on companies that possess proven product-market fit. Another key differentiator is the team’s extensive operational experience, which allows them to understand the challenges faced by management teams and to guide them effectively through growth strategies. This approach fosters a collaborative relationship where Updata acts as both an investor and a trusted partner.
Commitment to Growth and Community Engagement
Updata’s philosophy emphasizes a hands-on approach to value creation, where the firm seeks to actively engage with the management teams of its portfolio companies. This involvement ensures that they can provide meaningful support, from due diligence through to operational enhancements, without overstepping the boundaries of management's authority. Additionally, the firm is committed to making a positive impact beyond financial investments, as demonstrated by its support of initiatives like the Washington Nationals Youth Baseball Academy. This organization not only provides mentorship and educational resources to youth in challenging environments but also reflects Updata’s broader commitment to social responsibility and community engagement.
In this episode we speak with Jon Seeber, General Partner of Updata Partners, a leading technology-focused growth equity firm based in Washington, D.C.
Led by an investment team averaging more than 25 years of technology experience, and who began their software careers working in operating companies, Updata invests in high-growth B2B software and software-driven businesses where the combination of capital and operating experience will help accelerate success. Updata has partnered with more than 75 entrepreneurs to date, and has raised more than $1.5 billion in committed capital.
Jon has been a member of Updata’s investment team since 2006. He has more than 20 years of experience as an operator and investor in the software industry.
Jon supports Washington Nationals Youth Baseball Academy. To learn more about this organization click here.
I am your host RJ Lumba. We hope you enjoy the show. If you like the episode, click to follow.
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