Inspired by the bold entrepreneurial spirit of Walt Disney, Steamboat Ventures is named after the famous Mickey Mouse cartoon Steamboat Willie. Theatrically released in New York in 1928, Steamboat Willie was the screen debut of Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. It was also the first animated cartoon to use synchronized sound-a great innovation at the time. Our mission at Steamboat Ventures is to help young companies successfully face the challenges of becoming leaders in their markets. We invest in early- to mid-stage, technology-focused companies that are pursuing opportunities in emerging digital media and consumer technology markets. Although the fund is primarily focused on technology investments, we also consider venture investments in other areas of broad strategic importance to The Walt Disney Company.