Brittany Barreto

Venture Associate, Capital Factory

Houston

I am a dynamic entrepreneur with a doctorate in Molecular and Human Genetics with a passion for innovation. I am a scientist turned founder turned venture capitalist. My favorite topics include startups, femtech, genetics, DTC lab tests, dogs, and mental wellness. Recognized as Houston 40 under 40, Women to Watch, Greater Houston Partnership Founder Hype Award

While finishing my PhD, I co-founded Pheramor, the nation's first DNA-based dating app and also launched a secondary product called WeHaveChemistry.com for couples. We successfully fundraised over $1M and won dozens of awards. Although Pheramor and WeHaveChemistry did not become the unicorn I hoped for, it was an unicorn-valued experience.

I have extensive experience in research, teaching, leadership, and fundraising. I am very involved in the Houston startup ecosystem and have been named a top female leader in Houston innovation. I have consulted for biotech, big data, femtech, and AR companies. I enjoy mentoring new founders, particularly underrepresented ones, and speaking as a thought leader around the country on the future of romance, being a female founder, and raising capital in the South.

My role at Capital Factory as Houston-based Venture Associate is to evaluate startups, mentor founders, and assist in deal flow / review for the Fund. As the first associate to be based in Houston my role includes laying the foundation for Capital Factory in a growing Houston startup ecosystem.

I also have non-profit experience as the fundraiser and then treasurer of Houston Roundup, an annual LGBTQIA Recovery conference. I cofounded Cooper's Crossroad, an organization that brings awareness to the effects of early childhood trauma and treatment for PTSD. I also enjoy fostering rescue dogs from my local shelter!