Helping High Impact Leaders Build Momentum
Hi, I’m Cari Sommer
Co-Creator and Growth Partner
For close to two decades, I’ve helped founders and executives turn bold visions into real-world results.
As the Founder of RAISE Collective, a strategic advisory and investment platform, I work with visionary tech founders and purpose-driven leaders as a growth partner, helping to scale impact through communications, capital, and community. My approach is collaborative, strategic, and outcomes-focused—whether that means shaping a narrative that builds credibility, connecting people to capital, unlocking new customer segments, or forging transformational relationships and partnerships.
I began my career practicing law before pivoting into the startup and investment world, where I’ve had the privilege of working with some of the most notable tech leaders of our time.
If you're building something with ambition and purpose, let’s connect.
Communications
Building Visibility and Trust
I’m the CEO of RAISE Communications, an advisory firm ranked among the top two percent of women-owned businesses in the U.S. RAISE is trusted by category-defining startups, venture firms, and mission-driven organizations. We help leaders craft compelling narratives, build lasting market credibility, and become recognized voices in their industries.
Capital
Backer of Bold Ideas
I invest in founders and nonprofit leaders who are reimagining everyday life – from access to health, education, and opportunity. I am particularly interested in ideas that foster human connection, enabling people to learn, grow, and build together. I’m a Partner and Head of Platform at Visible Ventures, an early-stage fund investing in opportunities powered by demographic shifts. I’m also a member of Women Moving Millions, a global collective of female philanthropists who have catalyzed over $1 billion to invest in women and girls.
Community
Connector & Ecosystem Builder
I help build and activate communities that galvanize support, advocacy, and ambassadorship. Whether it’s curating intimate gatherings to bring an idea to life or designing donor networks or advisory boards that drive sustained impact, I create spaces where people come together to connect and champion change.