Sector
Energy & Utilities VC Funds
Venture capital funds investing in energy technology, utilities innovation, and power infrastructure startups.
Artesian Investments, founded in 2004 by Jeremy Colless, Matthew Clunies-Ross, and John McCartney, is a global alternative investment management firm specializing in venture capital, public and private debt, and impact investment strategies. Based in Sydney, the firm has expanded its reach with offices in Melbourne, Adelaide, Shanghai, Jakarta, Singapore, London, and New York. Artesian's notable investments include Instaclustr, PouchNATION, and Regrow Ag. They are particularly active in the Asia-Pacific region, managing over $1.22 billion in assets and boasting more than 600 startup investments (Artesian). Their investment strategy focuses on early-stage ventures across various sectors, including technology, agrifood, medtech, and AI. Artesian also offers a unique "Venture Capital as a Service" (VCaaS) platform, providing customized investment solutions to corporations, government, and family offices. The firm places a strong emphasis on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria and impact investing, aiming to deliver sustainable returns while addressing critical global challenges. Artesian is a certified B Corp, underscoring their commitment to positive social and environmental impact. Key team members include Jeremy Colless (CEO), Matthew Clunies-Ross (CIO), and Luke Fay (Partner, Australian Venture Capital). Their diversified team spans multiple continents, bringing extensive expertise and a global perspective to their investment activities
Artiman Ventures, founded in 2001, is a venture capital firm based in Silicon Valley with an additional office in Bangalore. The firm specializes in early-stage investments and adopts a "white space" investment strategy, focusing on sectors with little to no existing competition, thereby seeking to create or disrupt multi-billion dollar markets. Artiman is sector-agnostic and invests across a diverse range of industries including technology, medtech, and communications. Notable investments in Artiman's portfolio include companies like Virsec, which focuses on application security, and Visby Medical, which is revolutionizing disease diagnostics. Other significant investments include ApplyBoard, an AI-enabled marketplace for international students, and CellMax Life, a precision cancer blood-testing company. Geographically, Artiman primarily invests in companies based in the U.S. and India, leveraging its cross-border presence to help startups scale globally. Their investment strategy involves being the first institutional capital, often at the concept phase, and working closely with entrepreneurs to drive strategy, market definition, and execution. The leadership team at Artiman includes experienced partners like Yatin Mundkur, Amit Shah, and Ajit Singh, who bring deep expertise in technology and life sciences investments. Founder Eric Benhamou, known for his tenure as CEO of 3Com and Palm, leads the team with a strong background in growing and managing tech companies.
Ascend Venture Capital, founded in 2015 and headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, is a beacon of innovation in the Midwest venture capital landscape. The fund primarily invests in early-stage startups across a variety of sectors including AI/ML, SaaS, and commercial products. Notable portfolio companies include Vouched, WhyLabs, and Yoodli, showcasing their commitment to cutting-edge technology and impactful solutions. With a strategic focus on the Midwest, Ascend aims to demonstrate that top-tier venture capital doesn't need to be confined to the coasts. Their investment strategy involves rigorous due diligence and a methodical approach akin to clinical trials. Ascend's first fund aimed to validate their investment thesis, while subsequent funds have stress-tested their systems and expanded their team. The average check size is around $2 million, and they participate in approximately six investment rounds annually. Ascend often uses special purpose vehicles (SPVs) to amplify investments in high-potential portfolio companies, particularly during critical Series A and B stages. The team is led by Dan Conner, the founding general partner, and Yinka Faleti, a key partner, both based in St. Louis. They emphasize human-centered values and transparency, fostering strong, genuine relationships with portfolio companies and investors alike. Ascend’s disciplined approach and focus on integrity and inclusivity have positioned them as a leading venture capital firm in the Midwest.
Ascent Energy Ventures is a Denver-based venture capital firm focused on the digital transformation of the energy industry. Founded in 2019 by David Forsberg, the firm specializes in late-seed to early Series A investments, targeting startups that leverage digital tools to address modern energy challenges. Ascent’s portfolio emphasizes innovations in sectors like IoT, SaaS, advanced materials, and energy technology, focusing on companies that have demonstrated revenue traction and product-market fit. The firm's strategy centers on identifying and supporting entrepreneurs who apply advanced digital solutions to optimize energy operations, infrastructure, and sustainability. Notable investments include Galatea Technologies, a software firm, and Iron-IQ, a leader in industrial IoT for energy operations. Ascent looks for companies positioned for growth and profitability, often targeting those on the verge of significant scaling. In 2024, Ascent raised $12 million in seed funding to bolster its energy tech portfolio. Led by a team with extensive experience in energy investment and technology, Ascent provides both financial backing and strategic guidance. Key team members include Jim Newell, with over 20 years of venture investment experience, and Chris Lang, who has a background in energy derivatives and advisory roles at major financial institutions. Ascent Energy Ventures is a crucial player in the evolving energy landscape, helping startups secure funding and navigate complex markets to achieve lasting impact..
Astanor Ventures, founded in 2017 by Eric Archambeau and George Coelho, is a Brussels-based venture capital firm specializing in sustainable agrifood technologies. The firm focuses on investing in early-stage, mission-driven companies that address significant social or environmental issues within the agrifood value chain. This includes sectors like regenerative agriculture, bioeconomy, and climate-positive solutions. Astanor recently closed its second venture fund at €360 million, bringing its total assets under management to €800 million. This fund will support innovative solutions aimed at transforming the global food system to be more sustainable and resilient. The firm boasts an extensive network of entrepreneurs, experts, scientists, and policymakers, which helps identify and nurture groundbreaking technologies. Notable investments include companies that advance autonomous electric agricultural machinery, high-functioning proteins, and genomic sequencing for sustainable food production.
Astarc Ventures, established in 2015, is the corporate venture arm of Astarc Group based in Mumbai, India. The fund focuses on early-stage investments in innovative technology companies across various sectors, including fintech, healthtech, logistics, AI/ML, and e-commerce. Notably, Astarc Ventures invests globally, with a presence in markets like India, Israel, the United States, and the United Kingdom. The firm typically supports entrepreneurs whose ventures align with Astarc Group's strategic interests and disruptive technologies. With over 60 investments, Astarc Ventures has backed companies such as Rooter, Purple Style Labs, Jai Kisan, and Dataloop. These investments span diverse industries from AI-driven solutions to consumer marketplaces and climate-tech. The firm is also known for its exits, including Liv.ai, which was acquired by Flipkart in 2018. Led by Executive Director Salil Musale and an experienced team, Astarc Ventures leverages deep operational expertise to help portfolio companies scale. The team takes an active role in guiding startups, offering both strategic advice and operational support, especially in emerging sectors.
Aster Capital, established in 2000 and based in Paris, is a venture capital firm specializing in Climate Tech investments. The firm focuses on sectors such as energy, mobility, and industry, supporting startups at various stages of development. Aster Capital manages around €500 million in assets and operates globally with offices in Paris, San Francisco, and Tel Aviv. Key investments by Aster include companies like ekWateur, an energy supplier accelerating the energy transition; Betterway, a pioneer in employee mobility solutions; and Iceotope, specializing in liquid cooling technologies for data centers. These investments reflect Aster’s commitment to supporting innovative solutions that contribute to carbon neutrality. Aster recently raised €240 million to invest in energy transition and future mobility projects, underscoring their dedication to driving significant environmental impact through technology. The firm’s strategy involves not only financial investment but also providing extensive support through their "Business Hub" approach, which facilitates business opportunities and partnerships for their portfolio companies.
Asymmetry Ventures, based in San Francisco, is a prominent early-stage venture capital firm founded by Rob Ness. The firm focuses on investing in transformative startups that have the potential to create significant impact. They have a diverse portfolio of over 280 investments, including notable companies like BillionToOne, Foresight Mental Health, Mast Reforestation (formerly DroneSeed), and Orbit Fab. Asymmetry Ventures is known for their commitment to supporting defensible businesses, particularly in sectors such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and aerospace. They typically make initial investments in the range of $2 million and have been involved in notable funding rounds such as Orbit Fab's $10 million raise, which also saw participation from major aerospace players like Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin. The firm prides itself on identifying and backing visionary founders and innovative business models, with a strong emphasis on early-stage investments that leverage technology to create natural barriers to entry and generate recurring revenue streams. They also prioritize investments that address significant market needs with scalable solutions. For startups looking to partner with Asymmetry Ventures, demonstrating a strong leadership team and a clear path to market dominance are crucial. The firm's deep network and extensive industry experience provide valuable support and guidance to their portfolio companies, enhancing their potential for growth and success.
At One Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2020 by Tom Chi, a founding member of Google X. The firm is dedicated to investing in early-stage startups that are developing disruptive deep tech solutions aimed at making humanity a net positive to nature. With a strong focus on climate tech, At One Ventures has established itself as a significant player in the industry. The firm recently closed its second fund at $375 million, indicating strong investor confidence and a robust commitment to supporting climate-positive innovations. This fund follows their initial $150 million fund and aims to support startups that can dramatically reduce environmental footprints while upending established industrial economics. At One Ventures' investment portfolio includes companies across various sectors such as renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and advanced materials. Notable investments include Noon Energy, which focuses on long-duration energy storage, and MightyFly, which is developing hybrid electric drone delivery systems. The firm's approach is hands-on, providing strategic guidance in talent acquisition, operations, marketing, IP strategy, and manufacturing. The team at At One Ventures consists of experienced professionals with backgrounds in physical sciences, engineering, manufacturing, and finance, ensuring a deep understanding of the technologies and markets they invest in. They operate globally, with a presence in San Francisco and London, and continue to seek partnerships with entrepreneurs, scientists, and investors who share their vision for a sustainable future.
Atlantic Bridge, founded in 2004, is a global growth equity technology firm that focuses on investing in deep technology companies across Europe, the UK, and the US. With over €1 billion in assets under management, the firm has a portfolio of 70 companies and has created over 5,000 jobs. Atlantic Bridge is known for its cross-border value-add strategy, helping portfolio companies expand internationally through its offices in Dublin, London, Munich, Paris, and Palo Alto. The firm's portfolio includes notable companies such as SOC Prime, which specializes in enterprise threat detection and response, and Elisity, which combines Zero Trust Network Access with an AI-enabled Software Defined Perimeter. Other significant investments include Siren, an investigative intelligence platform, and Aizon, which optimizes pharmaceutical manufacturing processes using real-time data and predictive models. Atlantic Bridge has achieved successful exits with companies like Navitas Semiconductor, which recently debuted its GaN Power ICs on Nasdaq, and Mitiga, a provider of hybrid managed services for incident response and readiness. The firm is led by experienced industry professionals, including Managing Partners Elaine Coughlan, Brian Long, and Kevin Dillon, who bring extensive expertise in scaling technology companies and executing successful IPOs and M&As.
Atlantic Labs, based in Berlin, is a prominent early-stage venture capital firm that supports mission-driven founders across Europe. Founded in 2013, the firm has a focus on investing in transformative technology sectors such as climate tech, digital health, future of work, AI and data, industrial automation, mobility and logistics, fintech, and proptech. Atlantic Labs typically invests at the pre-seed stage, with investment sizes ranging from €25,000 to €5 million or more. They have backed over 215 companies, including notable names like SoundCloud, GetYourGuide, Clue, Vimcar, and Cazoo. The firm emphasizes a hands-on approach, providing not only capital but also strategic guidance and access to a robust network of industry experts to help their portfolio companies grow and succeed. The firm's portfolio reflects its diverse focus areas, supporting companies that aim to redefine various industries through innovative solutions. Examples include digital health companies like Clue, AI and data startups such as Mobius Labs, and mobility ventures like GetYourGuide and Cazoo. Atlantic Labs is led by a team of experienced investors and operators who are committed to supporting entrepreneurs throughout their entire journey. This commitment to fostering innovation and growth has established Atlantic Labs as a key player in the European venture capital landscape.
Atomico, founded in 2006 by Skype co-founder Niklas Zennström, is a leading venture capital firm based in London, with additional offices in Paris, Berlin, and Stockholm. The firm focuses on Series A and beyond investments in disruptive technology companies globally. Atomico's notable investments include Klarna, Truecaller, Lime, Hinge Health, and Rovio, which highlight their strong presence in fintech, healthcare, consumer tech, and gaming sectors. Atomico's investment strategy centers around partnering with mission-driven European founders, providing them with not just capital but also extensive operational support through their Growth Acceleration Team. This team assists with scaling operations, strategic planning, and navigating complex market dynamics. Their typical investment range is from $10 million to $50 million, and they often lead rounds, ensuring significant influence in their portfolio companies' trajectories. The firm is known for its diverse team and deep industry expertise. Key figures include Niklas Zennström, CEO and Partner; Chris Barnes, COO; and Thomas Wehmeier, Partner and Head of Insights, all based in London. This diverse leadership team brings a wealth of experience from various sectors, enhancing their ability to support and scale innovative startups. For startups looking to engage with Atomico, it's crucial to showcase innovative solutions with a potential for significant market impact. The firm is particularly interested in technology-driven companies that can leverage shifts in consumer behavior and technological advancements.
ATP Fund, established in 2014 and headquartered in Austin, Texas, is an early-stage venture capital firm that focuses on deep tech investments aimed at advancing human conditions through scientific innovation. The firm specializes in sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), biotechnology, cleantech, cybersecurity, enterprise software, healthcare, and robotics. ATP Fund is known for its strategic investments in startups that are tackling some of the most challenging and impactful problems of our time. ATP Fund adopts a contrarian and hands-on approach, often partnering with scientific entrepreneurs at the earliest stages of their ventures, sometimes even at the formation stage via their Proto.n initiative. This strategy reflects their commitment to long-term partnerships and their belief in the transformative potential of cutting-edge technologies. The fund's portfolio includes a variety of high-impact companies like Diligent Robotics, which focuses on healthcare robotics, and Infleqtion, a firm that specializes in quantum technology. These investments highlight ATP Fund's dedication to supporting ventures that have the potential to make significant advancements in their respective fields. ATP Fund collaborates with a wide network of co-investors, including notable names like Texas Venture Labs and Osage University Partners. The firm has also seen successful exits, further establishing its reputation as a key player in the deep tech investment landscape.
ATX Venture Partners, established in 2014 and headquartered in Austin, Texas, is an early-stage venture capital firm. The firm primarily invests in disruptive B2B software, APIs, marketplaces, frontier tech, and applications. Notable investments in their portfolio include companies like Aceable, AlertMedia, and Pensa Systems. Focusing on Seed and Series A stages, ATX Venture Partners operates with a strong preference for businesses that are already generating revenue. They actively invest across the United States, with a particular emphasis on the South-Central region. Their strategy involves partnering with entrepreneurs to create transformative technologies, aiming for category-defining outcomes in their respective industries. ATX Venture Partners is led by a team of experienced professionals including co-founders Chris Shonk, Brad Bentz, and Danielle Allen. Chris Shonk, known for his extensive background in both military operations and business, brings a wealth of experience in tech and consumer service investments. Brad Bentz combines expertise in finance, academia, and IT, while Danielle Allen leverages her extensive Wall Street background, focusing on finance and investments, particularly in space and women-led companies. Their investment approach is marked by a hands-on, collaborative ethos, aiming to propel portfolio companies towards larger growth. Entrepreneurs seeking investment are advised to approach ATX Venture Partners through detailed business plans, highlighting innovative solutions and market traction. Their recent investments, like the $1.7 million funding for Light Frame and the $1.9 million for LUXUS, underscore their commitment to fostering growth in cutting-edge sectors. For startups looking to partner with ATX Venture Partners, demonstrating product-market fit and a clear path to revenue generation is key.
Audacia is a Paris-based private equity and venture capital firm, founded in 2006 by Charles Beigbeder. The firm focuses on a range of investment strategies, including venture capital, growth capital, and buyouts, primarily targeting high-tech, real estate, and consumer sectors. With a strong emphasis on innovation and technological advancement, Audacia has built a diverse portfolio of over 229 investments, including companies like Gamestream and Multiverse Computing. Audacia is particularly active in France, which accounts for the majority of its investments, though they also have a presence in other regions like the United Kingdom. The firm’s approach involves leading early-stage and Series A funding rounds, supporting startups through to later stages of growth. Audacia’s investment philosophy centers on backing visionary entrepreneurs and innovative companies that have the potential to disrupt their respective industries. The firm is led by a seasoned team of 20 professionals, including key figures such as Charles Beigbeder, Cedric James, and Vincent Brillault, who bring extensive experience in both the investment and operational aspects of the business. With its strategic focus and deep expertise, Audacia continues to play a significant role in shaping the European venture capital landscape.
Augment Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, specializing in early-stage investments across North America. The firm, founded in 2011 by Sonali Vijayavargiya, focuses on companies at the intersection of digital innovation and data utilization, particularly in sectors such as supply chain, fintech, industry 4.0, health tech, proptech, climate tech, B2B, and SaaS. Notable investments by Augment Ventures include companies like LLamasoft, which was sold to Coupa Software for $1.5 billion, Optilogic, a cloud-native supply chain software solution, and Fluree, a platform recognized among the coolest data management companies. Their portfolio also features innovative companies like Pair Team, Secro, Guardhat, and Crowdz, which span diverse industries from healthcare and fintech to supply chain and industrial safety. Augment Ventures emphasizes partnering with mission-oriented founders and diverse teams to address significant, real-world challenges. They provide not just capital but also strategic guidance and operational support to help startups scale and succeed in a constantly evolving global economy.
Autotech Ventures, based in Menlo Park, California, is an early-stage venture capital firm with a mission to solve global ground transportation challenges through technology. The firm manages over $500 million and invests in startups from seed to Series C stages that focus on connectivity, autonomy, shared-use, electrification, and digitization of enterprises. Autotech Ventures has an impressive portfolio that includes notable investments such as Lyft, Cazoo, SpotHero, Volta, and Outdoorsy. They have a history of successful exits, including Bear Flag Robotics, acquired by John Deere, and nuTonomy, acquired by Delphi. Their investment strategy often involves initial investments ranging from $1 million to $8 million, and they are known for their deep industry expertise and strong network within the transportation sector. The team, led by managing directors Quin Garcia and Daniel Hoffer, combines decades of experience in both the ground transport and venture capital industries. This allows them to identify and support startups that have the potential to disrupt traditional transportation models or introduce significant innovations in the field. Autotech Ventures prides itself on a founder-first philosophy and actively supports its portfolio companies by leveraging its extensive network of industry insiders, including fleet operators, vehicle manufacturers, and energy companies. This approach not only helps startups gain critical industry connections but also facilitates strategic partnerships and acquisitions.
AV8 Ventures is a venture capital firm with a focus on early-stage investments in technology and healthcare sectors. Founded by George Ugras, who brings extensive experience from IBM Ventures and Apax Partners, AV8 Ventures operates primarily from Palo Alto and London. The firm leverages its deep expertise in applied AI, cloud computing, and big data to support transformative startups in these fields. The firm's investment strategy centers on identifying high-potential startups and providing them with not only capital but also strategic support and industry connections. AV8 Ventures emphasizes building long-term relationships with its portfolio companies, helping them scale and succeed in competitive markets. Notable investments by AV8 Ventures include companies like GrayMatter, which develops smart robotic solutions for manufacturing, and Precision Neuroscience, focusing on groundbreaking brain technology. These investments highlight AV8's commitment to supporting innovative technologies that address significant challenges in their respective industries. The team at AV8 Ventures, led by Ugras, comprises experienced professionals with backgrounds in venture capital, entrepreneurship, and technology development. This diverse expertise enables AV8 to provide comprehensive support to its portfolio companies, guiding them through various stages of growth and development. For startups looking to partner with AV8 Ventures, it’s essential to demonstrate strong technological foundations, clear market potential, and a vision for scalability and impact in the technology or healthcare sectors.
Aventurine Partners is a Houston-based venture capital firm specializing in energy investments, particularly within the sectors of power, renewables, and transitional energy technologies. The firm emphasizes decarbonization and climate resilience, seeking opportunities that contribute to tangible environmental impacts. Aventurine leverages its extensive industry expertise and strategic partnerships, notably with Carnelian Energy Capital, to back companies that drive the energy transition. The firm employs a flexible investment approach, supporting early to growth-stage ventures that align with their core mission of fostering sustainability through innovation. Representative investments include companies like Li-Cycle, a lithium-ion battery recycler, and Noveon Magnetics, a provider of rare earth magnets essential for renewable energy technologies. Key team members, such as CEO Markus Specks and partner Andrew Adler, bring extensive backgrounds in energy finance and management, which helps Aventurine effectively source, execute, and monitor investments. The firm’s strategic location and partnerships allow it to influence a broad range of projects across North America.
Avesta Fund is a seed-stage venture capital firm founded in 2020 and based in Denver, Colorado. The firm is dedicated to investing in technology-enabled companies that focus on addressing significant global challenges, particularly those related to climate change and economic inequality. Avesta Fund places a strong emphasis on supporting diverse founding teams, aiming to drive innovation that leads to both impactful social outcomes and strong financial returns. The fund typically invests between $150,000 and $500,000 per company, focusing on scalable solutions in areas such as sustainable agriculture, energy efficiency, clean energy, and the circular economy. Avesta Fund’s investment strategy is to bridge the worlds of technology, venture capital, and impact investing, helping startups not only secure financial backing but also attract like-minded investors, colleagues, and customers. Avesta Fund is committed to fostering a new generation of companies that can generate measurable social and environmental impact while achieving commercial success. Their approach includes hands-on support to help startups navigate the challenges of early growth and scale their operations effectively.
Axeleo Capital (AXC) is a French-based venture capital firm focused on early-stage investments across Europe. Launched in 2017, the firm is backed by a large network of tech entrepreneurs and is known for its thematic funds targeting specific sectors like B2B SaaS, PropTech, and ConTech. With its AXC2 fund, launched in 2022, the firm expanded into greentech and cybersecurity, providing investment from pre-seed through Series A. AXC typically invests between €500,000 and €1.5 million in pre-seed and seed stages, with larger amounts available for follow-on investments in later rounds. The firm manages over €80 million in assets, with a portfolio of over 35 startups, including notable companies like Formance, Mob Energy, and GarantMe. AXC places strong emphasis on long-term support for its portfolio, offering not only capital but also operational guidance. AXC's hands-on approach is rooted in the expertise of its founders, Eric Burdier and Mathieu Viallard, and the firm collaborates closely with an ecosystem of industry experts to support founders from inception to growth. The firm focuses on sectors undergoing digital transformation, especially in enterprise software, fintech, and energy solutions.
Axon Partners Group, founded in 2006 and headquartered in Madrid, Spain, is a global investment and consulting firm specializing in technology and innovation. The firm operates across multiple investment strategies, including direct venture capital investments, funds of funds, and growth equity. Axon has a strong presence in Europe, Israel, and the U.S., and it focuses on sectors such as digital, life sciences, deep tech, and sustainable technology. Axon Partners Group has made numerous notable investments. For instance, they invested in ISR, a Spanish technology company specializing in artificial vision systems for quality control in industry. ISR's Specular Vision® technology addresses complex inspection needs for transparent and reflective surfaces in various sectors like automotive and metallurgy. Axon's investment aims to support ISR's international expansion and strengthen its position as a leader in machine vision technology. Other significant investments include Finizens, a wealth management firm offering digital robo-advisory services, and Holaluz, an independent energy company in Spain providing green power and gas to businesses and households. Additionally, Axon has supported companies like Nextmol, which focuses on accelerating the design of new chemicals through molecular modeling and AI, and Glamping Hub, a global platform for unique outdoor accommodations. Axon's investment approach combines financial support with strategic consulting to help portfolio companies scale and innovate. They are committed to sustainability and investing in technologies that drive the transition to a sustainable world.
Azolla Ventures is an impact-focused venture capital firm launched in 2021 by Prime Coalition, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The fund was created to address critical gaps in climate financing, targeting early-stage companies with the potential for gigaton-scale carbon dioxide reduction. Azolla manages a $239 million blended fund, combining $80 million in catalytic, philanthropic capital with $159 million in impact-aligned market-rate investment capital. This structure allows Azolla to take on riskier, high-impact projects that might be overlooked by traditional investors, offering a unique approach to funding climate solutions. Azolla's investment strategy focuses on three key criteria: significant carbon reduction potential, additionality (investing in projects unlikely to attract sufficient traditional funding), and strong commercial prospects. The firm aims to help startups scale their solutions while ensuring they maintain mission alignment and maximize climate impact. Its portfolio includes companies like Heaten (industrial heat pumps), Carbon Reform (carbon capture technology), and Funga (forest microbiome enhancement for carbon sequestration). Co-founders Amy Duffuor and Johanna Wolfson lead the team, bringing a wealth of experience in climate finance and technology. The partnership with Prime Coalition ensures rigorous impact assessment and stewardship, helping Azolla navigate the challenges of deploying capital effectively to combat climate change. Azolla's model of integrating philanthropic and commercial funding is designed to catalyze further investment and accelerate the development of scalable, sustainable technologies that can make a global impact.
B Capital Group, founded in 2015 by Eduardo Saverin, Raj Ganguly, and Howard Morgan, is a global multi-stage investment firm. The firm focuses on investing in technology, healthcare, and climate sectors, supporting companies from seed to late-stage growth. With $7+ billion in assets under management, B Capital operates out of eight global locations, including New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Singapore, Beijing, and Hong Kong. B Capital's portfolio includes over 160 companies. Notable investments are in firms like Icertis, an AI-powered contract lifecycle management platform; Synack, a crowdsourced cybersecurity testing platform; and Khatabook, a digital bookkeeping solution for small businesses. These investments reflect B Capital's focus on transformative technologies that have the potential to reshape industries. The firm leverages its strategic partnership with Boston Consulting Group (BCG) to provide portfolio companies with expert advice, operational support, and strategic connections, helping them scale efficiently and effectively across global markets. B Capital's recent initiatives include the closure of their third growth fund series at $2.1 billion, emphasizing their commitment to supporting high-growth startups in the enterprise, fintech, and healthcare tech sectors. B Capital's investment approach is characterized by value-add investing, where they offer comprehensive support throughout the business development lifecycle. This includes advisory services on entering new markets, talent acquisition, and strategic business development, ensuring their portfolio companies achieve sustainable growth and success.
b2venture is a European venture capital firm, originally known as btov Partners, focusing on early-stage investments in both digital and industrial technologies. Founded in 2000, the firm invests in high-growth companies across sectors like AI, fintech, biotech, deep tech, and insurtech. With a network of angel investors, b2venture offers not just capital but also strategic support and mentorship to help scale innovative startups. The firm typically invests between €250,000 and €3.5 million, primarily at the Seed and Series A stages, but also supports follow-on rounds. Their portfolio spans a diverse range of industries, including companies like DeepL, Raisin, and Marvel Fusion. b2venture is particularly keen on businesses that demonstrate strong technological potential and scalability across European and global markets. Headquartered in Saint Gallen, Switzerland, with additional offices in Berlin and Luxembourg, b2venture manages over €100 million annually. They leverage their strong community of co-investors and partners to drive innovation, aiming for long-term growth in their portfolio companies.
BackingMinds is a Swedish venture capital firm founded in 2016 with a mission to support startup entrepreneurs who are typically overlooked by traditional VC networks. The firm focuses on identifying and investing in high-potential founders from underrepresented backgrounds, particularly those outside major tech hubs or those not fitting the conventional startup mold. Currently, BackingMinds is investing from its second fund, which has raised around €50 million. The firm has a diversified portfolio, including companies like CemVision in building products, TrusTrace in supply chain traceability, and Transfer Galaxy, a digital remittance platform. These investments reflect BackingMinds' commitment to uncovering and nurturing talent in areas that are often missed by other investors. The team, led by founding partners Sara Wimmercranz and Susanne Najafi, is based in Stockholm and operates with a hands-on approach. They are particularly known for backing women and immigrant-led startups or businesses located outside Sweden's traditional tech ecosystem, including cities beyond Stockholm.
Backstage Capital, founded in 2015 by Arlan Hamilton, is a venture capital firm that focuses on investing in startups led by underrepresented founders, including women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. The firm is headquartered in Los Angeles and has invested in over 200 companies, making it a significant player in promoting diversity within the venture capital industry. Among Backstage Capital’s notable investments is Goalsetter, an app-based savings management platform designed for kids and families. Another key investment is Hello Alice, an online networking platform that supports businesses in launching and growing. The firm has also backed The Riveter, which provides co-working spaces tailored for women entrepreneurs, and CareAcademy, a company offering professional training for home caregivers. Additionally, Career Karma, a platform that offers career guidance and reviews of bootcamps, is part of Backstage Capital’s portfolio. The firm has seen several successful exits, including Upsie, a warranty service for consumer electronics, and Foodstand, a platform that promotes healthy eating habits. Radiant RFID, which provides asset tracking solutions, is another successful exit. Backstage Capital continues to champion diversity in the startup ecosystem by offering not only capital but also strategic support to help founders succeed. Their approach underscores the potential of overlooked and underestimated founders, proving that diversity is a competitive advantage in business.
Bain Capital Ventures (BCV) is a prominent venture capital firm that focuses on investing in early to growth-stage companies across several key sectors including fintech, infrastructure software, application software/SaaS, and commerce. With over $10 billion in assets under management, BCV operates from offices in the Bay Area, New York City, and Boston. Notable investments in BCV’s portfolio include successful companies like DocuSign, LinkedIn, Redis Labs, Rapid7, and Bill.com. These investments highlight BCV’s ability to identify and support transformative companies across diverse industries. The firm typically invests in stages ranging from seed to growth equity, providing capital from $1 million to $100 million per investment. BCV's investment strategy is deeply rooted in building strong partnerships with founders, offering targeted support from founding to IPO and beyond. Their team of seasoned professionals, including partners like Matt Harris, Merritt Hummer, and Scott Friend, bring a wealth of experience and industry expertise to help portfolio companies scale and succeed. For startups looking to engage with BCV, it is beneficial to demonstrate innovation and potential in key areas such as fintech, digital infrastructure, and commerce technology. BCV’s extensive network and hands-on approach can provide significant strategic advantages to growing companies.
Balderton Capital is a prominent venture capital firm based in London, specializing in early-stage investments across Europe. Established in 2000 as Benchmark Capital Europe, it became independent in 2007 and has since managed over $2.1 billion in funds. The firm focuses on backing technology and internet startups, and has invested in over 230 companies. Notable investments include Betfair, MySQL, Revolut, Depop, and THG (The Hut Group). These companies have achieved significant exits, with Betfair going public in 2010 and MySQL being acquired by Sun Microsystems in 2008. Balderton's current portfolio features innovative companies like GoCardless, ComplyAdvantage, and Darktrace. Balderton Capital operates both early-stage and growth funds, investing between $1 million and $20 million in Series A rounds and up to $50 million in growth stages. The firm has a sector-agnostic approach but typically invests in fintech, health tech, SaaS, and enterprise software. The leadership team includes partners like Bernard Liautaud and Rana Yared, who bring extensive experience and strategic insights. Balderton also offers robust support to its portfolio companies through its "Build with Balderton" platform, which provides resources in talent, marketing, finance, and legal services. Startups looking to partner with Balderton should highlight their potential for significant impact and scalability. The firm values detailed pitches and prefers to be approached through its network.
BAM Ventures, based in Los Angeles, is an early-stage venture capital firm co-founded by Brian Lee, known for his successful ventures such as LegalZoom, ShoeDazzle, and The Honest Company. The firm focuses on consumer-centric startups, leveraging their deep operational experience and extensive network to support ambitious founders. BAM Ventures has a diverse portfolio that includes notable companies like The Honest Company, Honey, Tala, Wondery, and Scopely. They have successfully exited several investments, including Outdoor Voices, ClassPass, and fuboTV. BAM Ventures is committed to investing in innovative companies that disrupt the status quo and resonate deeply with consumers. The firm primarily invests in early-stage companies, providing not only capital but also hands-on support, mentorship, and access to their network. They are particularly passionate about the Los Angeles startup ecosystem, seeing it as a natural hub for consumer-focused businesses.
Bamboo Capital Partners is a prominent impact investment firm that focuses on delivering both financial returns and social impact. Established in 2007 and headquartered in Luxembourg, Bamboo has invested in over 30 developing countries, particularly targeting sectors such as financial inclusion, clean energy, healthcare, education, and agribusiness. Their notable investments include Bboxx, which provides solar energy and clean cooking solutions in Africa, and Amartha, a fintech platform in Indonesia that connects female entrepreneurs with lenders. Bamboo's investment funds include the ABC Fund, which supports small agribusinesses in Sub-Saharan Africa, and the BUILD Fund, which finances SMEs in the least developed countries. Bamboo's investment strategy involves rigorous due diligence and a focus on companies that improve quality of life and generate employment in low- to middle-income countries. They aim to support businesses with scalable models and significant social impact potential. For startups seeking funding, Bamboo offers a structured application and review process, ensuring that investments align with their impact goals.
Baruch Future Ventures (BFV) is a San Francisco-based venture capital firm dedicated to investing in early-stage companies that focus on climate technology and resource management. Founded by Tom Baruch, a veteran investor with over three decades of experience, BFV leverages its deep industry expertise to support innovations that address critical global challenges, particularly in resource-scarce and climate-sensitive markets. BFV’s investment strategy centers around companies that are pioneering solutions in climate restoration, resource scarcity, and sustainability. The firm’s portfolio includes companies that are transforming power infrastructures, supply chains, and materials manufacturing. Notable investments include partnerships with Breakthrough Energy Ventures, founded by Bill Gates, in companies like Aeroseal and Fervo Energy. Tom Baruch, the founder of BFV, has a storied career in venture capital, including founding CMEA Capital and Formation 8, which were instrumental in launching multiple successful companies, including 10 that achieved unicorn status. BFV prides itself on its ability to identify and scale innovative technologies that can lead to significant environmental and economic impacts. With a strong track record of generating returns and fostering groundbreaking companies, BFV remains a key player in advancing the climate economy through strategic investments in innovative and sustainable technologies.
Baseline Ventures, founded by Steve Anderson in 2006, is an early-stage venture capital firm that has made significant impacts in the tech industry. The firm is based in San Francisco and focuses on seed and early-stage investments across various sectors, particularly technology. Notable investments by Baseline Ventures include high-profile companies like Instagram, SoFi, TaskRabbit, and Stitch Fix. Instagram, a photo-sharing platform, was one of their early successes, eventually being acquired by Facebook. SoFi, an online personal finance company, and TaskRabbit, an app-based marketplace for freelance labor, have also been standout investments that underscore the firm's focus on transformative technology. Baseline Ventures employs a hands-on investment approach, often being among the first to fund promising startups. This strategy has led to a strong track record of successful exits, including companies like Weebly, acquired by Square; ExactTarget, acquired by Salesforce; and CircleCI, a cloud-based continuous integration and delivery platform valued at $1.7 billion. The firm continues to support and nurture startups through their growth phases, leveraging their extensive network and industry expertise to help founders build scalable and impactful businesses.
BASF Venture Capital GmbH (BVC) is the corporate venture arm of BASF, focused on investing in early to mid-stage companies that align with the group's strategic priorities. Established in 2001, BVC targets innovative sectors including decarbonization, circular economy, agricultural technology (AgTech), new materials, digitization, and disruptive business models. Its global presence spans key hubs like Mannheim, Toronto, Boston, Los Angeles, Shanghai, and Sao Paulo, enabling it to connect startups with BASF's extensive network of research, partners, and clients worldwide. BVC manages an evergreen fund of approximately €250 million, which allows for flexibility in investment timelines. Typically, it engages in seed to Series B rounds, emphasizing strategic alignment with BASF’s core business areas. The venture team collaborates closely with portfolio companies, providing not only financial backing but also access to BASF's industry expertise and resources, helping startups scale and penetrate new markets. The firm's portfolio includes diverse ventures such as IntelliSense.io (AI for industrial efficiency), Computomics (predictive breeding in agriculture), and Essentium (industrial 3D printing). Additionally, BVC has invested in various technology funds, including partnerships with accelerators like Alchemist to stay connected with emerging trends and innovations. Led by a team of seasoned professionals across multiple continents, BVC's approach focuses on fostering innovation that contributes to sustainability and future-ready solutions for the chemical and broader industrial sectors.
Battery Ventures, founded in 1983, is a global, technology-focused investment firm with offices in Boston, San Francisco, Menlo Park, New York, London, and Tel Aviv. The firm has invested in over 450 companies, with 69 going public and 185 achieving mergers or acquisitions. Notable portfolio companies include AuditBoard, Nutanix, and Amplitude. Battery Ventures invests across various sectors, including application software, infrastructure software, consumer tech, industrial technologies, and life sciences. The firm's geographic reach and industry diversity allow it to support a wide range of innovative businesses. The investment strategy at Battery Ventures emphasizes both early and growth-stage companies, with a particular focus on majority-growth investments, where they take substantial ownership stakes. This approach helps them provide significant strategic and operational support to their portfolio companies. Battery's typical investments range from seed funding to large buyouts, with recent funds totaling over $3.8 billion. Key team members include Neeraj Agrawal, Michael Brown, and Roger Lee, all of whom bring extensive expertise in scaling technology companies. Their offices span major global tech hubs, ensuring a broad and influential presence in the venture capital landscape. For startups looking to connect with Battery Ventures, demonstrating robust market potential and strategic alignment with Battery’s focus areas can be advantageous. The firm values long-term partnerships and provides not just capital but also strategic guidance to help companies achieve substantial growth.
Baukunst is a venture capital firm dedicated to leading pre-seed investments in companies at the intersection of technology and design. With its inaugural $100 million fund, Baukunst focuses on partnering with creative technologists, often making the first institutional investment that a founding team receives. The firm typically invests between $500,000 and $2 million, aiming to lead every round and take an active role in building companies from the ground up. Baukunst's investment strategy emphasizes high conviction and deep engagement, offering more than just capital. The firm provides hands-on support during the critical early stages of company development, helping with hiring, customer acquisition, and product launch. Their portfolio spans diverse industries, including AI-powered platforms, sustainable energy solutions, and digital health technologies. Led by four general partners with extensive experience in building companies, Baukunst prioritizes companies that push the boundaries of innovation. Their portfolio includes startups like Omnibus (a digital comic platform), DIG Energy (affordable geothermal energy), and Eyebot (AI-driven eye exams). By investing in the early, formative stages, Baukunst partners with founders to transform bold ideas into enduring companies.
BayWa r.e. Energy Ventures is a venture capital firm established in 2018 as a part of BayWa r.e., a leading global player in the renewable energy sector. Based in Munich, Germany, the firm focuses on investing in early-stage startups that are driving innovation in the energy industry. BayWa r.e. Energy Ventures targets scalable business models within key areas such as digital energy solutions, energy storage, and e-mobility, with a strong emphasis on supporting the transition to a sustainable energy future. The firm’s investment strategy is deeply rooted in its commitment to fostering the energy transition. By identifying and backing startups with innovative solutions, BayWa r.e. Energy Ventures aims to accelerate the development and adoption of technologies that contribute to decarbonization and the broader goals of sustainability. The firm primarily invests in companies across Europe and Israel, leveraging its extensive industry network and market expertise to provide strategic guidance alongside financial investment. BayWa r.e. Energy Ventures is not just a financial partner; it plays an active role in helping its portfolio companies navigate the complex energy market. The firm offers access to a wide range of resources, including market insights, industry connections, and technical expertise, enabling startups to scale effectively and achieve long-term success. By aligning its investments with the growing demand for clean energy solutions, BayWa r.e. Energy Ventures is at the forefront of supporting the next generation of energy innovators.
BeAble Capital, established in 2016 and headquartered in Madrid, Spain, focuses on early-stage investments in deep science and industrial technologies. Their primary mission is to advance technologies from academic and research institutions into market-ready products, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. BeAble Capital's investment sectors include New Space, New Energy, New Materials, Agro & Food, Environment, Healthcare & Wellbeing, Medtech, Robotics, and AI. Notable investments in their portfolio include companies like Alen Space, which develops small satellites, and A4Cell, which specializes in single-cell monitoring tools. Another significant investment is in Alcyon Photonics, a firm that designs and manufactures photonic integrated circuits. BeAble Capital is led by founders Almudena Trigo, David López, and other partners. They emphasize a hands-on approach in the early development stages, including proof of concept, scale-up, and pre-industrial phases, providing critical support to transform scientific discoveries into commercially viable products. Their strategy involves close collaboration with universities, research centers, and industrial companies to identify promising projects, focusing on technologies that address unmet needs in high-growth markets. The firm has made over 50 investments, reflecting its commitment to fostering innovation and industrial growth in Spain and beyond.
Bedrock Capital is a venture capital firm founded by Geoff Lewis, known for its unique investment approach centered around "narrative violations." This concept involves identifying and investing in companies that defy prevailing industry narratives and trends. Bedrock seeks opportunities in technology sectors that are often overlooked or misunderstood by mainstream investors, believing that these areas hold significant potential for groundbreaking innovation. Since its inception in 2018, Bedrock has managed to grow its assets under management to approximately $2 billion. The firm has made notable investments in a variety of companies, including Rippling, OpenAI, and Flock Safety. These companies are recognized for their innovative contributions across different fields, from AI research and HR solutions to public safety technology. Geoff Lewis, the founder and managing partner, has a distinguished career in venture capital, having previously been a partner at Founders Fund. He has led early-stage investments in several high-profile companies such as Lyft, Upstart, and Tilray. Under his leadership, Bedrock continues to focus on identifying and supporting transformative entrepreneurs who challenge the status quo and redefine their industries.
Bee Partners, founded in 2009, is a pre-seed venture capital firm based in San Francisco. The firm focuses on investing in deep tech startups that are at the forefront of human-machine convergence. Their primary areas of investment are Human-Machine Interaction, Machine-to-Machine Learning, and Biological Machines. Notable portfolio companies include Rapid Robotics, which develops AI-powered robots for industrial automation, and InnerPlant, a company that provides plant-based bio-signals for agricultural efficiency. Other significant investments are in companies like Embroker, a commercial insurance platform, and New Culture, which produces animal-free dairy products. Bee Partners has been instrumental in supporting innovative startups through early investments and strategic guidance. They have a strong track record of helping their portfolio companies secure follow-on funding from leading venture capital firms.
BEENEXT, founded in 2015 by Teruhide Sato, is a venture capital firm based in Singapore that focuses on early-stage technology startups in India, Southeast Asia, Japan, and the USA. The firm invests across diverse sectors, including fintech, healthtech, foodtech, and proptech, aiming to support innovative companies that drive significant change. Notable investments include BharatPe, a leading fintech company in India; NoBroker, a proptech platform in India; Trusting Social, an AI-driven fintech firm; M2P, an open banking platform; and Coins.ph, a digital wallet in the Philippines. BEENEXT has made over 317 investments, and the firm is known for its hands-on approach, leveraging the extensive operational experience and global network of its founders to provide strategic support and mentorship to its portfolio companies. This approach has led to several successful exits, such as Dekoruma, an Indonesian e-commerce platform; Milkbasket, an Indian grocery delivery service; and Coins.ph, which was acquired. The firm operates with a philosophy centered on empowering founders and fostering innovation, with the goal of building scalable and sustainable businesses. BEENEXT is particularly focused on identifying startups that have the potential to make a substantial impact in their respective industries. The firm’s extensive network of advisors and partners further strengthens its ability to support portfolio companies through various stages of growth, from initial funding rounds to scaling and eventual exit strategies.
Beringea is a transatlantic venture capital firm with a significant presence in the UK and the US, managing over $900 million in assets. Founded in 1988, Beringea has made a name for itself by investing in high-growth companies across sectors such as healthcare, clean technology, media, consumer services, SaaS, and technology. Notable investments from Beringea include successful exits like D3O, ContactEngine, and Inskin Media, showcasing their ability to nurture and grow impactful businesses. Their portfolio also features promising companies like MPB, Flywheel, Asterra, Moonshot, and Akadeum, which highlight their focus on innovation and scalability. Beringea’s investment strategy involves early and growth-stage funding, with typical investments ranging from $2 million to $10 million. They emphasize scalable business models targeting large markets and have a strong track record of leading funding rounds and providing significant operational support to their portfolio companies. Geographically, Beringea operates out of Farmington Hills, Michigan, and London, with additional offices and operations supporting their global reach. The firm's team includes experienced partners like Michael Gross and Stuart Veale, who bring extensive industry knowledge and leadership to the table.
Berkeley SkyDeck is UC Berkeley's premier startup accelerator, integrating the extensive resources of one of the world's top universities with a robust venture fund. Launched as a partnership between the Haas School of Business, the College of Engineering, and the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research, SkyDeck combines traditional accelerator consulting with academic expertise and research resources. The Berkeley SkyDeck Fund, with $85 million under management, invests in startups participating in the accelerator program and those with Berkeley affiliations. Each startup in the accelerator receives an initial investment of $200,000. The fund is known for its high activity, making over 100 investments in just three years, backed by prominent VCs like Sequoia Capital and Mayfield Fund. SkyDeck provides startups with access to a vast network of advisors, industry partners, and UC Berkeley alumni, helping them with sales, hiring, and further financing introductions. This network-driven approach has proven successful for alumni startups like DeepScribe and SuperAnnotate, which have raised significant funds and achieved substantial growth. The accelerator supports a diverse range of startups from various sectors and stages, including biotech, hardware, consumer products, and enterprise solutions. SkyDeck also emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, actively working to support underrepresented founders.
Bessemer Venture Partners (BVP), headquartered in San Francisco, is one of the oldest venture capital firms in the United States. Established in 1911, BVP has a long history of investing in early- and growth-stage companies across various industries, including technology, healthcare, and consumer sectors. Some of their notable investments include Shopify, LinkedIn, DocuSign, Pinterest, and Yelp. BVP is known for its systematic approach to venture capital, leveraging deep industry insights and a decentralized decision-making process. This allows individual partners significant autonomy to invest across different stages, industries, and geographies. The firm has offices not only in the U.S. but also in India, Israel, and the UK. BVP has raised multiple funds over the years, including a $3.85 billion early-stage fund in 2021 and a $780 million buyout fund under BVP Forge in 2022. These funds reflect their strategy of supporting startups from inception through to growth and eventual exit . Their "Anti-Portfolio" is a unique feature on their website, showcasing major investment opportunities they missed, including companies like Apple and eBay, highlighting their commitment to transparency and learning from past decisions . With a focus on fostering innovation and supporting dynamic founders, Bessemer Venture Partners continues to be a significant player in the global venture capital landscape.
Bethnal Green Ventures (BGV), founded in 2012 and based in London, is Europe's leading early-stage tech for good venture capital firm. BGV invests in ambitious teams using technology to tackle pressing social and environmental challenges. They have backed 177 ventures so far, with notable companies like Chatterbox, LettUs Grow, and Bright Little Labs in their portfolio. These investments have collectively impacted the lives of 17 million people and generated £80 million in sales of tech for good products and services in 2022. BGV's investment strategy focuses on sectors such as HealthTech, Sustainability Tech, and Enterprise Applications, with most of their investments being in the United Kingdom. They provide initial funding of £60,000 for a 7% equity stake through their Tech for Good programme, which includes six weeks of workshops and bespoke coaching. They also offer follow-on funding from pre-seed to Series A for the most promising ventures. BGV has a strong commitment to diversity, aiming for at least half of their investments to be in ventures founded by women. They are also the first UK VC to certify as a B Corp, reflecting their dedication to transparency and ethical practices.
Better Capital is a global venture capital firm that invests in early-stage startups across a variety of sectors. Founded by Vaibhav Domkundwar, the firm has a robust portfolio with over 200 companies, a combined valuation exceeding $7 billion, and two unicorns. They focus on backing bold innovators from day zero, emphasizing a conviction-driven investment approach. The firm has notable investments in fintech, health tech, SaaS, and digital education, with significant companies like Slice, Open, and Teachmint. Better Capital typically invests in pre-seed and seed rounds, with check sizes ranging from $300K to $1M. Their portfolio also includes companies like Rupeek, Khatabook, and Yulu, which are leaders in their respective fields. Geographically, Better Capital has a strong presence in India and the United States, with investments also spread across Singapore, the UK, and Australia. The team comprises experienced professionals who have founded, grown, and sold tech startups, providing valuable mentorship and support to the companies they invest in. Startups looking to engage with Better Capital should demonstrate innovative solutions with potential for significant impact and growth. The firm values mission-driven founders and aims to support them in creating industry-defining changes.
Better Ventures is a mission-driven VC firm investing in early-stage startups that harness cutting-edge technology to address pressing global challenges. Their notable investments include Meati, a sustainable protein innovator, and SMBX, a platform democratizing business financing. With a focus on sectors like climate tech, human health, and equitable economies, they back diverse teams aligned with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. Based in Oakland, Better Ventures leads seed rounds, providing active support for founders committed to making a measurable impact. The team looks for companies that can scale profitably while driving social and environmental change, ensuring purpose and profit go hand-in-hand. Better Ventures prefers founders who blend technological innovation with a clear mission. They typically write checks of $500k to $1 million and often lead or co-lead rounds. The firm emphasizes strong partnerships, working closely with founders to scale their impact. Startups should approach Better Ventures with a well-defined purpose, as they prioritize purpose-driven innovation. The founding team includes Rick Moss and Jenny Kassan, both seasoned in impact investing and business development. Better Ventures' geographic focus spans the U.S., especially targeting hubs of innovation. Their approach to funding emphasizes scalability, sustainability, and measurable impact, creating value for both investors and society.
Bettervest is a pioneering crowdfunding platform focused on financing sustainable energy and resource efficiency projects globally. Since its inception in 2012, Bettervest has funded over 100 projects across more than 20 countries, emphasizing impact investing in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and CO2 reduction projects. The platform allows individuals to invest as little as 50 euros, offering average returns of 4-12%. This democratizes access to impactful investments, enabling investors to support projects that benefit both the environment and local communities (bettervest). Noteworthy projects include solar mini-grids in India and biological wastewater treatment in Kenya. Bettervest’s commitment to sustainability has resulted in significant achievements, such as saving over 1.56 million tons of CO2. The platform has gained recognition, winning the 16th German Sustainability Award in the financial services sector.
Beyond Black, now known as Extantia Capital, is a Berlin-based venture capital firm focused on breakthrough climate technology that significantly reduces carbon emissions. With investments in companies like BeZero Carbon and Betteries, the fund has a clear focus on sectors like environmental services and energy. Extantia is particularly active in the cleantech space, seeking innovations that target decarbonization and other critical environmental challenges. Geographically, the fund predominantly invests in European startups, with an average check size of around $3 million. While they typically make about two investments per year, they prefer to lead rounds and get deeply involved with their portfolio companies. Their strategy prioritizes businesses that align with ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles, emphasizing sustainable solutions with long-term impacts. Founded by a team including Sebastian Heitmann and Yair Reem, Extantia brings together a group of seasoned investors committed to climate tech innovation. Startups looking to engage with Extantia should focus on how their solutions contribute to climate resilience and carbon reduction, as the firm builds its funnel around high-impact technologies and ventures.
Beyond Next Ventures, founded in 2014 and based in Tokyo, focuses on early-stage investments in deep tech startups, primarily in Japan and India. The firm invests in various sectors including medtech, healthcare, biotechnology, agriculture, food, digital, space, and climate technology. Notable investments include companies like MediBuddy, GigIndia, QD Laser, and Susmed. MediBuddy is a significant player in telemedicine and healthcare services in India, while QD Laser and Susmed are notable for their IPOs on the Tokyo Stock Exchange. Beyond Next Ventures typically leads early-stage financing rounds, offering extensive support through their incubator programs aimed at commercializing advanced research. The firm has about $340 million under management, underscoring its commitment to fostering innovation in deep tech and science-based startups. The leadership team, including CEO Tsuyoshi Ito and Managing Director Kengo Ueha, brings a wealth of experience and strategic insight, supporting startups through growth management, market entry, and expansion strategies.