Why Ragtag Ventures?

We embrace creativity, adaptability and a drive to get things done. Ragtag is a nod to the character, grit, and passion that fuel every project we take on — a reminder that you don’t need to be traditional to build something timeless.

As a small team with big ambitions and unique backgrounds, we knew we didn’t fit the traditional mold; we chose the name “Ragtag Ventures” because it reflects our unconventional spirit and team.

Meet the team

Ned Hoyt

Founder & CEO

Ned Hoyt exemplifies leadership. His experience as a West Point cadet (class of 1990, BSc in Economics, Valedictorian) and Marshall Scholar at Oxford University, as well as his service as a US Army Airborne Ranger, all prepared Hoyt to bring these qualities and values to the business world. 

After working as a management consultant at McKinsey & Company, Hoyt founded a startup called IOwn.com. When the dot-com bubble showed signs of bursting, he moved his family to his wife’s native country, Australia, where he became an independent consultant and investor. Discovering a passion for real estate development, he founded Happenstance Developments, a real estate development firm in Brisbane, Australia. 

Ned’s entrepreneurial spirit couldn’t be contained to one continent, though — he brought these same skills back to the US and started Inventure Capital with a former West Point classmate in Madison, Wisconsin, where he developed a deep affection for the community. Wanting to continue to develop spaces that matter, Hoyt assemled a team with diverse backgrounds and expertise to create upscale multifamily living opportunities in the Greater Madison area — and Ragtag Ventures was born.

Marnie Harvey

Co-Founder & COO

Marnie’s career spans decades in the legal, accounting and finance sectors, as well as the real estate industry. Her experience working with both top-tier and smaller suburban firms has given her an extensive knowledge of property and will and estate transactions.  

As a longtime valued partner to Ned, serving as Principal of Happenstance Realty as well as a sales agent, Marnie is a natural addition to the Ragtag team.

Outside of her professional life, she enjoys bushwalking and spending time at the beach. Marnie is a keen home renovator and gardener who enjoys spending time with family and grandchildren.

Chase Zimmerman

Co-Founder & Associate

A UW-Whitewater graduate in Finance and Management (Real Estate and Leadership emphasis), Chase helps guide investment strategy and project planning across the Greater Madison area. He’s passionate about finding value through creative design and data-driven decisions. Outside the world of real estate, Chase is deeply involved in tech, theater, and the arts—interests that inform his unique take on building communities with character.

Our Partners

With strong roots in the Greater Madison area, we’ve built lasting relationships with a select group of trusted partners who collaborate with us on every project.