Welcome to the Refinery Ventures Newsletter! We’re excited to bring to you a recap of our recent X15 events, an introduction to our new team member, and updates on our portfolio companies. Enjoy this month’s edition!
Team Updates
We are so excited to welcome Patrick Gilligan to the Refinery Ventures team!
Patrick joins us as our newest Associate, supporting both the Operations and Investments teams. He graduated from Clemson University in 2020 with a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering. Patrick brings a strong foundation in private markets from his time as a Private Market Strategist at Fifth Third Bank.
Where We’re Going
The Refinery team is traveling to Pittsburgh and Chicago this month! Check out the dates below and email Tim (tim@refinery.com) if you would like to connect.
X15 Dinner in Detroit
In April, we were busy traveling and hosting X15 dinners! Our Detroit dinner on April 17th brought together a high-energy group of leaders—many meeting for the first time—for a night of insight, connection, and shared experience. With representation from companies like Signal Advisors, Cisco, and Livegistics, the conversation focused on the unique challenges of scaling in hypergrowth, Midwest momentum, and a healthy dose of Detroit vs. Ann Arbor rivalry.
X15 Dinner in Nashville
On April 23rd, we hosted an X15 dinner in Nashville and brought together a diverse group of leaders for honest conversations about building and scaling in high-growth environments. Topics ranged from hiring traits to tough leadership decisions. These dinners reinforce the need for tighter feedback loops in the Midwest in order to grow stronger local connections and learn from each other.
News Across the Portfolio
Bitewell is Now the FoodHealth Company
A new name and a fresh look to match their bigger mission of transforming how food and health connect for everyone.
9.3/10 User Recommendation Score
Champion earned a 9.3/10 user recommendation score in the 2025 Customer Marketing Technology Landscape Report.
Partnered with SodaStream
Fooji and SodaStream worked together to offer free SodaStream sparkling water makers, reusable bottles, and a variety of flavors for a sustainable hydration setup to customers.
Announced Champions in Security Awards Winners
Portal26 announced the 3rd Annual Champions in Security Awards Winners at the 2025 RSA Conference.
Partners with Magellan AI
RedCircle partnered with Magellan AI to expand their analytics in competitive intelligence, ad verification, and performance measurement.
Refinery Job Opportunities
Director of Client Success in San Francisco, CA
Seeking a customer-obsessed professional to lead and execute client work whille building our client success function from scratch.
