UpRoute ventures

We journey further together

We invest in and partner with good people building profitable businesses for the long-haul.

Growth Partnership

More Than Capital. A Partner in Growth.

Strategic Direction

Long-term thinking, clear priorities, and experienced guidance for the next step.

Capital & Investment

Patient capital for great businesses and people we believe in for the long haul.

Growth & Marketing

Brand, advertising, digital, web, and proven systems for profitable growth.

Financial Strategy

Better visibility, smarter decisions, and disciplined financial management.

Operations & Systems

Processes, accountability, technology, and infrastructure built to scale.

People & Expertise

Experienced operators and specialists across finance, HR, technology, etc.

Ventures

A selection of businesses we've built and partnered with.

2023 - 2025

FRWRD

Launched a home service coaching business with Kenneth Deemer and Patrick Murray. Profitable in year one. We have since exited ownership but still support the business.

New Venture
2025

Look Media

Acquired a small marketing agency and executed a smooth exit for the existing team while successfully transitioning all clients.

Acquired
2016 - 2022

Clarity Squared

Founded a web development and digital advertising agency. Ran independently for six years before merging into UpRoute's marketing studio.

Merger
2018 - 2020

Kitchen Repose

A brand partnership with a meal delivery company as it launched as well as brand development and as it expanded offerings.

New Business Launch
2016 - Present

Dog Guard

A long-term growth partnership with a nationwide dealer network. Supporting the home office and over 65 locations with advertising, website, and operations.

Long-term Partnership
2024 - 2025

KO17 Lacrosse

Invested into the business, redesigned the mobile iOS app and explored opportunities to expand the business. Mutually decided to transition ownership to the founder.

Investment

“I really can’t tell you how grateful I am for you all. You are a huge asset to our team — I can’t even remember what it was like before we had you around.”

Kenn & Pat / Founders of FRWRD

The people

Get to Know Us

The best way to get to know us is a conversation, that will always be better than us trying to write about ourselves. But if you want a little background, here you go.

With deep roots in entrepreneurship from launching new brands, owning multiple businesses, serving on boards, consulting hundreds of small businesses, and working with national franchises — we bring real-world experience and an eagerness to keep learning.

Davis Smith

Davis Smith

Partner

Alanna Smith

Alanna Smith

Partner

Andrew Gregory

Andrew Gregory

Partner

Supported by an incredible team

While you’ll be working directly with us, our team includes experts in marketing, creative, technology, finance, operations, and strategy and is ready to step in wherever needed.

Notes from the trail

What We’re Thinking About

We’re not interested in quick wins or short-term tactics.

We’re interested in helping owners build businesses that are healthier, more valuable, and easier to run.

That means asking hard questions.

Thinking long-term.

Creating predictable growth.

And surrounding ourselves with people who genuinely enjoy doing life together.

Start a conversation

Let's build a business together

If you think there might be a way we could work together, or if this just sounds interesting to you, we'd love to hear from you.