---
title: "Harlem Capital Backs Espa and AccessGrid; Malomo Exits"
description: "Harlem Capital backed repeat founders at Espa (AI) and AccessGrid (mobile wallet keys), while portfolio company Malomo was acquired by Redo."
date: 2026-05-11T00:00:00.000Z
tags: ["harlem-capital", "seed-investing", "artificial-intelligence", "new-york-funds", "startup-funding"]
source: https://venturecapitaltracker.com/2026-harlem-capital-espa-accessgrid-malomo
---

# Harlem Capital Backs Espa and AccessGrid; Malomo Exits

> Harlem Capital backed repeat founders at Espa (AI) and AccessGrid (mobile wallet keys), while portfolio company Malomo was acquired by Redo.

**Harlem Capital** doubled down on repeat, proven founders — backing **Espa** (AI) and **AccessGrid** (mobile wallet keys) — while portfolio company **Malomo was acquired by Redo**.

## Key facts

- **Investor:** Harlem Capital
- **Espa:** AI company from repeat founder Deon Nicholas (previously Forethought)
- **AccessGrid:** Apple/Google Wallet mobile keys, from Quicknode founder Austen Bunsen
- **Also backed:** Lava, Ponte, Faura (2025-2026)
- **Exit:** Malomo acquired by Redo (early 2026)

## Why this matters

The deals reflect Harlem Capital's Fund III focus on repeat founders and AI-native infrastructure, while the Malomo exit adds to its 10 tracked acquisitions.

## Sources

1. Harlem Capital next-chapter / repeat-founder wins: https://harlem.capital/introducing-harlem-capitals-next-chapter-all-winners-welcome/
2. Harlem Capital portfolio & Malomo exit (PitchBook): https://pitchbook.com/profiles/investor/226523-89

**By:** [Venture Capital Tracker](https://venturecapitaltracker.com/editorial-policy)

**Editorial note:** AI tools assisted with research, structure, or drafting. Venture Capital Tracker retains human editorial responsibility for factual accuracy, relevance, and source quality before publication.