Sector
Hardware, Robotics & IoT VC Funds
Venture capital funds investing in hardware, robotics, Internet of Things, and connected device startups.
Grit Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm that focuses on investing in deep tech startups, specifically in sectors like industrial automation, sustainability, supply chain, and connectivity. Founded in 2019 and based in Palo Alto, California, the firm’s mission is to drive the "Clean Machine Revolution," supporting technologies that automate industries and create sustainable solutions. Grit Ventures invests heavily in industrial powerhouses across sectors like agriculture, logistics, energy, and advanced materials, with check sizes ranging from $250K to $5M. The firm places a strong emphasis on transforming older industries through automation, AI, robotics, and advanced materials, often partnering with leading academic institutions like Stanford and MIT to source cutting-edge technologies from their labs. Grit Ventures’ investment approach includes leading pre-seed and seed rounds, offering hands-on support in areas like fundraising, business strategy, and product-market fit. Their notable portfolio includes companies such as Trustwise, Integral AI, and Renovate Robotics, which align with Grit's focus on sustainability and deep technology. With hubs in emerging innovation centers like Austin, Denver, and Pittsburgh, Grit Ventures aims to bridge the gap between established tech regions and undercapitalized industrial sectors across the U.S.
Grok Ventures, founded by Mike Cannon-Brookes in 2008, is a prominent venture capital firm headquartered in Surry Hills, Australia. The firm is dedicated to addressing global challenges, particularly focusing on climate tech and sustainable investments. Grok Ventures boasts a diverse portfolio of over 50 companies, with notable investments including Zoox, Sun Cable, and Vow. These companies span various sectors such as renewable energy, electric vehicles, and food technology. Grok Ventures emphasizes early to growth-stage investments, with typical funding rounds ranging from $1M to $10M. The firm is known for its strategic, long-term approach, often leading investment rounds and actively participating in the growth of its portfolio companies. Grok Ventures seeks out innovative solutions that have the potential to make a significant environmental impact, aligning with their mission to foster a sustainable future. The leadership team, comprising Jeremy Kwong-Law and Tan Kueh as CEOs, alongside other key members like Lucinda Hankin and Sudipta Ghosh, brings a wealth of experience in technology and investment. This expertise, coupled with a robust network, allows Grok Ventures to support startups not only financially but also through mentorship and strategic guidance. Grok Ventures is particularly interested in projects that demonstrate technological innovation and scalability in climate tech. Entrepreneurs looking to pitch to Grok Ventures should highlight their potential for significant environmental impact and align with the firm’s sustainability goals. The firm prefers direct submissions through their website, encouraging detailed pitch decks that outline the unique value propositions of the startups. Overall, Grok Ventures remains committed to leveraging technology to drive positive change, supporting visionary entrepreneurs who are paving the way for a greener, more sustainable world.
Ground Up Ventures, established in 2017, is an early-stage venture capital firm with a unique focus on pre-seed and seed-stage startups in the United States and Israel. With headquarters in Philadelphia and additional offices in New York and Tel Aviv, the firm has built a robust portfolio that includes companies like TULU, TermScout, Wardrobe, and Jones Software. Ground Up Ventures primarily invests in SaaS, fintech, and proptech sectors. Their investment strategy is centered around partnering with mission-oriented founding teams that are building enduring businesses. They are known for their hands-on approach, providing support in areas such as fundraising, hiring, marketing, and strategy, effectively acting as an extension of their portfolio companies' teams. The team is led by founding partners Cory Moelis and David Stark, who are based in Philadelphia and New York, respectively. They are supported by a diverse team including Navot Volk in Tel Aviv, ensuring a broad geographic reach and deep industry connections. This setup allows Ground Up Ventures to leverage a vast network, benefiting their portfolio companies through strategic introductions and partnerships. Ground Up Ventures writes checks typically ranging from $500K to $2M, focusing on companies that demonstrate strong potential for growth and disruption within their industries. They have made significant investments in innovative startups like Flyp, Komodor, and Lenkie, showcasing their commitment to supporting transformative technology solutions.
Grove Ventures, an early-stage venture capital firm based in Tel Aviv, Israel, specializes in deep tech investments, partnering with innovative Israeli entrepreneurs. Founded in 2016 by Dov Moran, the inventor of the USB flash drive, and Lotan Levkowitz, the firm focuses on sectors such as edge computing, cloud infrastructure, AI, semiconductors, and digital health. Notable investments include companies like Wiliot, RapidAPI, and ActiveFence, which reflect Grove's commitment to fostering groundbreaking technologies. Their investment strategy emphasizes early-stage funding (Pre-Seed, Seed, and Series A) and supports startups with resources for further funding, HR and management recruitment, marketing, and sales. The firm recently closed its third fund at $185 million, bringing their total assets under management to nearly half a billion dollars. Key team members include Managing Partner Dov Moran, General Partner Renana Ashkenazi, and Partner Lotan Levkowitz, all based in Tel Aviv. Grove Ventures is known for its hands-on approach, working closely with founders to build robust companies poised to shape the future through technological innovation. Startups looking to partner with Grove Ventures should focus on demonstrating how their technology can drive significant market impact and align with Grove's vision of the "Deep Future".
GrowX Ventures, founded in 2008 and based in New Delhi, is a venture capital firm that focuses on early-stage investments in the B2B and deep tech sectors. The firm has a diverse portfolio, with significant investments in companies like Pixxel, Progcap, and RACEnergy. GrowX Ventures supports startups with innovative solutions in fields such as enterprise SaaS, fintech, healthcare, and aerospace. The firm has made 77 investments, including recent funding for Tappi, a company focused on enterprise applications in Kenya, and Pixxel, which is developing high-resolution hyperspectral imaging satellites. GrowX Ventures has also seen notable exits, including Wellthy Therapeutics and Doxper, which highlight their successful investment strategy. Key team members at GrowX Ventures include partners like Manu Rikhye and Sheetal Bahl, who bring extensive experience and passion for working with talented founders addressing large and complex problems. The firm’s approach involves not just financial investment but also strategic support to help startups scale and succeed. GrowX Ventures primarily invests in India, with a few investments in the United States, and is known for its collaborative approach, often co-investing with other prominent venture capital firms like Blume Ventures and Lightspeed Venture Partners.
GS Venture is the corporate venture capital arm of GS Group, a leading South Korean multinational conglomerate that was spun off from LG Group in 2005 and operates across energy and petrochemicals, retail and consumer services, construction and infrastructure, and engineering. Founded in 2022 and based in Seoul, the firm's international operations are branded as GS Futures and invest through two early-stage vehicles: a Collective Fund targeting physical AI, energy and industrial transition, and digital platforms and infrastructure; and a Construction Fund focused on built environment technology. The combined portfolio spans approximately 47 investments, primarily at Series A. GS Futures concentrates on four strategic themes: Physical AI and Robotics (embodied intelligence, jobsite robotics, autonomy, perception, and simulation), Built Environment and Construction (modernizing design, build, and operation of real assets), Energy and Industrial Transition (storage, electrification, grid modernization, and industrial bio), and Digital Platforms and Infrastructure (AI-native software, data and compute, blockchain, and consumer ecosystems). Notable portfolio companies include AiFi (autonomous shopping), Antora Energy (thermal energy storage), Butlr (spatial intelligence), ClearStory (construction management), Debut Biotech (synthetic biology), Evoloh (green hydrogen electrolyzers), Machina Labs (AI-driven manufacturing), Mitra Chem (battery materials), Mysten Labs (blockchain and Sui ecosystem), Phaidra (autonomous industrial controls), Skydio (autonomous drones), and Zymochem (bio-based materials). GS Futures brings the industrial depth of a near-century-old Korean conglomerate to each investment, offering portfolio companies strategic commercial pathways across GS Group's energy, retail, and construction businesses. In June 2024, the firm hosted a battery tech day featuring eight startups, ultimately investing in seven of them.
GSR Ventures, founded in 2004, is a global venture capital firm with over $3.7 billion in assets under management. The firm focuses on early-stage technology companies developing AI-enabled enterprise software, consumer platforms, and healthcare technology. GSR Ventures has a notable track record with investments in companies like Didi Chuxing, Ele.me (acquired by Alibaba), Qunar (NASDAQ: QUNR), and Xiaohongshu. The firm typically invests in transformative companies that have the potential to make a significant impact in their sectors. GSR Ventures operates across the United States, China, and East Asia, supporting its portfolio companies with a team of experienced founders, engineers, physicians, and enterprise executives. Their approach emphasizes deep industry expertise and active partnership with entrepreneurs. Key team members include co-founder and managing partner Richard Lim, and partner Justin Norden, who focuses on digital health investments. GSR Ventures' strategy involves making significant early-stage investments and providing ongoing support as these companies scale. For startups seeking investment from GSR Ventures, it is crucial to demonstrate strong potential for innovation and sector disruption. The firm values clear, compelling pitches and prefers engagements through its extensive network of industry connections.
Gotham Green Partners, founded in 2017 and based in Santa Monica, California, is a private equity firm specializing in the cannabis sector and related industries. The firm leverages decades of institutional investing and operational experience to support its portfolio companies with strategic guidance, operational expertise, and flexible capital solutions. Their investments span various stages of growth, including venture capital, growth equity, structured credit, and special situations. Gotham Green Partners has made significant investments in notable companies such as MedMen, a vertically integrated cannabis operator with marquee stores in high-profile locations, and iAnthus, which operates across multiple states with a focus on CBD products. Other prominent portfolio companies include Lord Jones, known for its luxury CBD products, and Jane Technologies, which offers retail software solutions for the cannabis industry. The firm has a strong track record of successful exits, including the sale of Lord Jones to Cronos Group and the acquisition of HERBL, a major cannabis distributor in California. Gotham Green Partners is led by Founder and Managing Partner Jason Adler, who brings extensive experience in institutional capital allocation and strategic investment.
GTMfund is an early-stage venture capital fund that focuses on investing in B2B SaaS companies. Established in 2020 and headquartered in Austin, Texas, the fund leverages a network of over 350 go-to-market (GTM) leaders from top tech companies like Salesforce, LinkedIn, Zoom, and Snowflake to provide strategic support and drive growth for its portfolio companies. GTMfund has made 115 investments across various sectors including big data, artificial intelligence, fintech, and productivity tools. Notable portfolio companies include CaptivateIQ, Census, Demostack, Mutiny, and Vanta. These investments are often co-led with other top-tier venture firms like Sequoia, Accel, and a16z. The fund's unique value proposition lies in its ability to offer extensive go-to-market expertise and a strong network of experienced executives who assist startups with distribution, revenue generation, and strategic advice. This support helps startups scale efficiently and effectively from early stages to IPO. For startups looking to partner with GTMfund, demonstrating strong product-market fit and readiness to accelerate growth is crucial. The fund provides significant value through its GTM playbooks, recruitment support, and a community of top-tier GTM leaders.
Gula Tech Adventures is a venture capital firm and philanthropic organization dedicated to enhancing cybersecurity across critical infrastructure and industries. Founded by Ron and Cyndi Gula, the firm has invested over $100 million in more than 50 companies specializing in cybersecurity, AI, and national security since 2017. The Gulas are known for their significant contributions to the cybersecurity sector, including Ron's previous role as co-founder and CEO of Tenable Network Security, which grew to 20,000 customers and achieved a successful IPO in 2018. Gula Tech Adventures not only funds startups but also supports cybersecurity nonprofits through competitive grants. They have run six $1 million grant programs, focusing on various aspects of cybersecurity, such as increasing opportunities for the neurodivergent in cyber roles and supporting critical infrastructure protection. Their portfolio includes companies like Huntress Labs, Cybrary, and Trinity Cyber, which offer innovative solutions in threat prevention, cybersecurity training, and advanced cyber operations. The firm is also involved in advocacy, promoting the concept of "Data Care" to make cybersecurity more inclusive and understandable to a broader audience. With a strong team of industry experts, including Patrick Duggan and Rick Olesek, Gula Tech Adventures provides not just financial backing but also strategic guidance to help startups scale and succeed in the cybersecurity landscape.
Gumi Cryptos Capital is a boutique early-stage venture capital firm based in Silicon Valley, specializing in blockchain and cryptographic assets. Founded in 2018 by Rui Zhang and Hironao Kunimitsu, the firm supports innovative builders in the crypto space by leveraging its entrepreneurial experience and global networks. gCC's investment portfolio includes notable companies like OpenSea, Agoric, Yield Guild Games, 1inch.exchange, Hashflow, and Lit Protocol. The firm focuses on the crypto native stack, investing from Layer 1 to the application layer, and also in traditional businesses supporting the blockchain ecosystem. The team at gCC is composed of experienced professionals such as Managing Partners Rui Zhang, Hironao Kunimitsu, and Miko Matsumura, along with other key members like Evans Huangfu and Evan T. Mair. They provide strategic guidance and support to their portfolio companies, helping them navigate market entry, compliance, and growth strategies.
Gutter Capital, an early-stage venture capital firm based in New York City, focuses on investing in companies addressing critical issues such as affordability, economic mobility, and climate change. Founded by Dan Teran, former WeWork executive, and James Gettinger, a computer scientist and former professional gambler, Gutter Capital closed its $25 million Fund I in early 2023. The fund is backed by notable investors including Fred Wilson of Union Square Ventures, Hunter Walk and Satya Patel of Homebrew, and Eileen Murray, former co-CEO of Bridgewater Associates. The firm's portfolio includes investments in sectors such as software-as-a-service (SaaS) and marketplaces. Notable investments include companies like Treehouse, Opus, and The Climate Choice, which focus on clean energy, educational software, and environmental consulting, respectively. Gutter Capital's investment strategy emphasizes backing mission-driven founders and supporting diverse teams, with a significant portion of their investments in women and minority-led startups. Gutter Capital is committed to making an impact by improving accessibility to healthcare, housing, and education, empowering individuals and small businesses, and reducing carbon emissions. The firm typically writes initial checks of $1.5 million and is known for building strong founding teams, having supported a substantial number of hires within its portfolio companies in 2022.
H20 Capital is a dynamic venture capital firm with a strategic focus on early-stage tech companies across the Americas. Based in Miami, Florida, H20 Capital invests predominantly in the U.S., Colombia, and Mexico. Their notable portfolio includes companies like Tul, which specializes in building materials e-commerce, and Felix, a fintech startup providing innovative financial services. H20 Capital's industry focus spans financial services, software, e-commerce, and fintech. They prioritize businesses leveraging technology to disrupt and redefine markets. The firm typically invests in Series A and seed rounds, often co-investing with other prominent venture funds. The investment strategy of H20 Capital emphasizes supporting disruptive entrepreneurs and scalable business models with a strong potential for high returns. Their approach is hands-on, offering not just capital but also strategic guidance and network access. They are known for leading rounds and providing substantial follow-on support to their portfolio companies. Led by partners Daniel Lloreda and Mauricio Porras, the team combines expertise from various sectors including tech, finance, and logistics. The firm’s investment decisions are influenced by their deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within the Latin American and U.S. markets. H20 Capital prefers to engage with startups through direct pitches and fosters relationships through active involvement in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Their recent $15.5 million investment in Felix highlights their commitment to fintech innovation and their proactive investment approach in 2024.
H2O Venture Partners is an Oxford-based venture capital firm specializing in building high-impact, scalable enterprises from scratch. Their unique approach focuses on sectors like agriculture, health, and environmental technologies, particularly in underserved markets. Notable portfolio companies include Oxitec, known for its genetic pest control solutions, and Fuel3D, a spinout using advanced 3D imaging in healthcare. The firm’s Chariot Fund emphasizes telemedicine and point-of-care technologies, aiming to revolutionize healthcare in developing regions such as India, where these innovations are rapidly adopted. H2O’s strategy is distinct in its "build-from-scratch" model, which involves creating businesses to fill gaps in value chains where no established companies exist. Their investments often target early-stage companies, where they guide ventures through pilot phases into scalable, long-term businesses. The firm is active in East Africa, with a notable presence in Rwanda and Tanzania, in addition to their UK operations. Led by David Kelly and Paul Coleman, H2O places a strong emphasis on commercial discipline and social impact, seeking companies with the potential for both profitability and substantial social benefits. They prefer businesses that are mission-driven, focusing on transforming sectors like smallholder farming and telemedicine. Their hands-on, phased approach to growth helps minimize risk while scaling operations.
Hack VC is a web3-focused venture capital firm headquartered in Incline Village, Nevada, and founded in 2021. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage startups within the cryptocurrency, AI, and blockchain sectors. Hack VC has raised significant funds, including a $150 million venture fund, bringing their total assets under management to approximately $425 million. Notable investments by Hack VC include Jasper AI, a generative AI copilot for enterprises, and Sui by Mysten Labs, which focuses on the secure MOVE programming language for blockchains. Hack VC also supports the decentralized wireless network Helium and Ethereum infrastructure firm Consensys. Their investment strategy targets projects that enhance the usability, scalability, and security of web3, aiming to support the next generation of web3 infrastructure. The firm leverages its hack.labs platform to engage with the protocols they invest in, providing liquidity and support to DeFi pools and other blockchain initiatives. Additionally, Hack VC organizes hackathons and conferences through their hack.summit community, fostering a global network of developers and innovators.
Hadean Ventures is a European life science venture capital firm headquartered in Oslo, Norway, with an additional office in Stockholm, Sweden. They focus on investing in life science startups across Europe, particularly in the Nordics and German-speaking countries. The firm manages approximately EUR 230 million in assets through its two main funds, Hadean Capital I and Hadean Capital II, which collectively exceed their initial targets due to strong investor support. The firm's investment strategy spans across pharmaceuticals, biotech, medtech, diagnostics, and digital health, targeting early to mid-stage companies with the potential to address unmet medical needs. Notable investments include Alex Therapeutics, Arthex Biotech, Complement Therapeutics, Emergence Therapeutics, Ribbon Biolabs, and TargED. Their first successful exit was the acquisition of Emergence Therapeutics by Eli Lilly in 2023. Hadean Ventures is led by Managing Partners Ingrid Teigland Akay and Walter Stockinger, who bring extensive experience in life sciences and venture capital. The team is recognized for its hands-on operational management and strategic guidance, fostering significant advancements in the healthcare sector. For startups seeking investment from Hadean Ventures, it is advantageous to demonstrate strong innovation in addressing critical healthcare challenges and to align with their focus on transformative life science solutions.
Hala Ventures is a prominent Saudi-based venture capital firm that focuses on investing in early-stage tech startups, primarily within the MENA region. Founded in 2018, the firm emphasizes sectors such as fintech, e-commerce, SaaS, and logistics. Some of their notable investments include Telfaz11, a creative media studio, and Kaso, a B2B food procurement platform. They actively support startups from Saudi Arabia and neighboring countries, including Egypt and Jordan. Hala Ventures typically targets startups that have achieved sustainable revenue and are scaling their operations. They offer both capital and hands-on strategic support, positioning themselves as a long-term partner for growth. The firm’s leadership, including founding partner Hussain Almarhoon, brings deep expertise in finance and entrepreneurship, ensuring robust guidance for portfolio companies. Their approach to venture investment is rooted in empowering startups through personalized mentorship and building strong ecosystems in the GCC. With a strong track record in fintech and other tech verticals, Hala Ventures continues to be a key player in the region’s burgeoning startup ecosystem.
Hall Venture Partners (HVP) is a venture capital firm based in Provo, Utah, specializing in funding early-stage technology companies. As part of Hall Labs, a modern Edison-style innovation lab, HVP focuses on commercializing patent-protected technologies across various sectors, including automotive, consumer goods, and building automation. The firm supports the growth of companies emerging from Hall Labs' research, providing them with the capital and resources needed to scale their innovations. Notable portfolio companies include Vanderhall, known for its electric roadsters, and SmarterHome, a smart home product brand. HVP operates from a state-of-the-art campus and benefits from its proximity to Hall Labs’ robust R&D capabilities. The firm is led by David Hall and a seasoned management team with expertise in scaling innovative technologies to tackle global challenges. HVP also leverages its location in one of the nation’s top "opportunity zones," offering potential tax benefits to investors through its Opportunity Fund 1, aimed at accelerating growth for its portfolio companies.
Halley Venture Partners, founded in 2017 and based in San Francisco, is a venture capital firm that specializes in investing in the legal cannabis and hemp industries. The firm, led by Managing Director Steve Schuman, focuses on early-stage investments, particularly in technology and medical companies that are driving innovation within the cannabis sector. With a background in public and private equity, Schuman and his team bring significant expertise to their portfolio, which includes companies like Willow Industries, Front Range Biosciences, and PathogenDx. Halley Venture Partners typically invests in Seed, Series A, and Series B rounds, supporting startups that are developing scalable solutions and transformative technologies in the cannabis space. The firm is dedicated to building highly scalable businesses, leveraging deep industry knowledge and a hands-on approach to guide companies through the complexities of the rapidly evolving cannabis market. The team at Halley Venture Partners includes experienced professionals like Aaron Taffet, who brings a strong background in private equity and cannabis operations, and advisors such as Ephraim Lindenbaum and Lauren Fraser, who contribute valuable insights from their extensive experience in venture capital and cannabis distributio.
Halogen Ventures, founded by Jesse Draper in 2015, is an early-stage venture capital firm based in Los Angeles. The firm focuses on investing in female-led consumer technology companies and strategic B2B software sectors. Halogen Ventures has made significant strides with notable investments in companies such as Babylist, Flex, and Ellevest. The firm has raised a total of $31.4 million across its funds and has invested in over 111 companies, achieving 12 successful exits. Their investment strategy includes providing not just capital but also strategic support to help companies grow and scale effectively. They assist with network building, brand exposure, talent acquisition, and subsequent funding rounds. Halogen Ventures is particularly focused on the consumer technology market, driven by the fact that women make 80% of household purchasing decisions. This strategic focus has led to their portfolio companies generating over $10 billion in market value.
Hamilton Ventures is a venture capital firm focused on early-stage investments in the proptech sector, supporting companies revolutionizing the built environment. Founded in 2022 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., the firm primarily invests in U.S.-based seed and Series A startups, with typical check sizes ranging from $250K to $750K. Hamilton’s investment thesis revolves around bringing disruptive technologies like AI, blockchain, IoT, and machine learning into real estate, particularly targeting pain points in construction, data analytics, and climate tech. The firm’s portfolio includes companies such as Inhabitr, which has developed a cloud-based furniture solution for real estate owners, streamlining the procurement and logistics of furnishing large-scale properties. Hamilton Ventures is particularly drawn to companies offering SaaS, PaaS, and marketplace business models that can scale quickly. Hamilton’s team, led by Prashant Kothari, consists of experienced real estate professionals and investors, providing not just capital but deep industry expertise to their portfolio companies. This founder-focused approach allows Hamilton Ventures to be a strategic partner, helping startups scale in a complex and traditionally slow-moving sector like real estate.
Haney Business Ventures, founded by Mark Haney in 2011, is an early-stage investment firm based in Rocklin, California. The firm focuses on investing in innovative startups, particularly in the Sacramento region, across a variety of industries including media, food and beverage, and technology. Known for its deep involvement in the local startup ecosystem, Haney Business Ventures provides not only capital but also mentorship and strategic advice to help companies scale. The firm has made notable investments in startups such as MAGNAK, a company in the beverage industry, and MMA Surge, a content-focused sports media platform. Haney Business Ventures is also associated with The Growth Factory, an accelerator program designed to support early-stage startups through a combination of coaching, networking, and access to capital. In addition to its financial backing, Haney Business Ventures stands out for its active community-building efforts, including hosting events and fostering collaboration among local entrepreneurs.
Hannah Grey Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Denver, Colorado, with a secondary presence in New York City. Founded in 2020 by Jessica Peltz-Zatulove and Kate Beardsley, the firm focuses on early-stage investments, particularly in pre-seed and seed rounds. The fund primarily targets companies that are reimagining everyday experiences across various sectors including SaaS, healthcare, wellness, fintech, and consumer technology. Hannah Grey is committed to supporting customer-centric founders who are passionate about transforming work and life experiences. They typically invest between $350,000 and $1 million, aiming for a 6-8% ownership stake. The firm often leads or co-leads funding rounds and collaborates with a network of over 6,000 co-investors to build strategic investment syndicates. The firm emphasizes diversity and inclusivity, seeking out founders who reflect the communities they come from. Their investment philosophy includes a strong focus on societal shifts and cultural trends that drive commercial change. Notable investments include companies like UpSmith, Glystn, and Starday Foods. Hannah Grey Ventures aims to be a proactive partner, offering not just capital but also strategic guidance, network access, and operational support to help startups scale effectively. The founders bring extensive experience from their previous roles in corporate venture capital and early-stage investing, making them well-equipped to identify and nurture high-potential startups.
Happy Capital is a venture capital firm that specializes in early-stage investments with a focus on high-growth startups across a variety of sectors. Founded with the mission to back passionate entrepreneurs and visionary leaders, Happy Capital prides itself on being more than just an investor. The firm emphasizes a partnership approach, working closely with founders to provide not only financial resources but also strategic guidance and operational support throughout the company's growth journey. Based in France, Happy Capital invests primarily in startups across Europe, focusing on industries such as technology, consumer products, health tech, and sustainability. The firm is particularly interested in companies that have the potential to disrupt traditional markets and bring about significant positive change. With a commitment to innovation and long-term value creation, Happy Capital seeks to identify startups with scalable business models and strong leadership teams. The firm's portfolio is diverse, reflecting its broad investment thesis. Happy Capital has backed companies that range from emerging tech startups to more established businesses that are looking to scale their operations. The firm’s approach is hands-on, with the team often taking active roles in helping their portfolio companies navigate the challenges of scaling, from securing additional funding rounds to expanding into new markets. With a strong network of industry contacts and a team of experienced investors, Happy Capital is well-positioned to help startups achieve their growth ambitions. The firm's focus on sustainability and innovation underscores its commitment to fostering companies that not only achieve financial success but also contribute positively to society. This dual focus on profit and purpose makes Happy Capital a unique player in the venture capital landscape.
Harrison Metal is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, founded in 2008 by Michael Dearing. The firm focuses on early-stage investments in technology-driven companies, particularly in the consumer, business services, and developer tools sectors. Over the years, Harrison Metal has attracted a small group of limited partners, including university endowments, charitable trusts, and pensions. Michael Dearing, the founder and General Partner, has a robust background, having worked at eBay, The Walt Disney Company, and Bain & Company before establishing Harrison Metal. He also serves as a Consulting Associate Professor at Stanford University, where he shares his extensive experience in business history and management through various classes offered by Harrison Metal. The firm is notable for its disciplined investment strategy and its support of startups through six funds, providing not just capital but also strategic guidance and operational expertise to help founders navigate the complexities of growing a business.
Hartmann Capital is a frontier tech investment firm founded in 2018 by Felix Hartmann at age 23 in Boca Raton, Florida. Starting with approximately $200K in initial capital, Hartmann scaled the firm into a roughly $50 million investment platform operating multiple vehicles: Hartmann Digital Assets (launched 2018, a long-biased multi-strategy crypto hedge fund), Hartmann Metaverse Ventures I (launched October 2021, a pure metaverse venture fund that deployed approximately $15 million into infrastructure, content, and access points of the metaverse), Hartmann Metaverse Ventures II (a follow-on vehicle), and Hartmann Frontier Opportunities I (a fund of funds). The current active fund is approximately $30 million, with check sizes ranging from $300K to $3 million at pre-seed and seed stages. The firm leads rounds. Core investment theses span generative AI, brain-computer interfaces, XR and spatial computing, programmable biology, and robotics. The portfolio includes approximately 20 to 35 investments: Sinn Studio (a Toronto-based award-winning XR combat studio, with a $2.5 million round led by Hartmann), ShapesXR, TrippVR (wellness VR), Squido Studio (Seed, November 2024), Cathedral Studios, and Redpill VR. Felix Hartmann serves on the boards of ShapesXR, TrippVR, Squido, Sinn, and Cathedral Studios. According to the Carta VC Fund Performance Report, the firm ranks in the top decile of its vintage cohort by IRR, TVPI, and DPI. Hartmann's investment approach emphasizes opportunities that produce global paradigm shifts — the firm backs technologies it believes will fundamentally restructure how humans interact with digital and physical reality. The founder's early entry into crypto and the metaverse, combined with a methodical expansion into AI and biotech, reflects a thesis-driven strategy that seeks exposure to technologies ahead of mainstream adoption.
Hashed is a leading venture capital firm specializing in blockchain technology and Web3 startups. With headquarters in Seoul and offices in Singapore, San Francisco, and Bengaluru, the firm is deeply committed to decentralization and its potential to transform global economies. Hashed supports early-stage founders building innovative decentralized applications (dApps), tools, and infrastructure across industries like finance, gaming, and entertainment. Some of its notable portfolio companies include Aptos, a blockchain infrastructure project, and Republic, a platform for investing in startups and crypto. Hashed is more than just an investor—they act as ecosystem builders, offering hands-on strategic support to their portfolio companies. They also run subsidiaries like Hashed Emergent, which focuses on emerging markets, and UNOPND, an incubator for early Web3 startups. Hashed regularly hosts major blockchain events, including Korea Blockchain Week (KBW), which has become one of Asia’s largest blockchain gatherings. The firm's global network and commitment to fostering decentralized communities have helped them lead the charge in Web3 innovation.
Hatteras Venture Partners, based in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, focuses on seed and early-stage investments in biopharmaceuticals, medical devices, diagnostics, healthcare IT, and related areas in human medicine. Founded in 2000, the firm has grown significantly and now manages approximately $450 million across multiple funds. The firm aims to build transformational companies that benefit patients and healthcare professionals, with a strong emphasis on investing in innovative life science companies. Notable investments include G1 Therapeutics, Clearside Biomedical, and GeneCentric. Hatteras Venture Partners also manages the Venture Capital Multiplier Fund (VCMF), a $60 million fund that co-invests with other venture capital firms to support high-growth companies in North Carolina. The firm has a proven track record, leveraging relationships with major healthcare institutions like UNC-Chapel Hill, Duke University, and Vanderbilt University to foster innovative startups.
HAX is a venture capital firm focused on hard tech startups, investing in areas like robotics, industrial automation, and sustainability. As part of the larger SOSV ecosystem, HAX supports early-stage founders by providing a $250,000 initial investment along with extensive engineering and prototyping resources. The firm operates out of key locations including Newark, NJ, and Shenzhen, China, offering access to fabrication tools like CNC machining and 3D printing for rapid prototyping. With over 250 startups in its portfolio, HAX has backed notable companies like Formlabs, a leader in 3D printing, and Renovate Robotics, which focuses on automating solar installations. HAX typically invests in pre-seed and seed rounds and follows up with additional funding up to $3 million as startups grow. They are especially hands-on, working closely with founders to iterate and develop market-ready products. If you're a founder working on a hard tech solution and looking for mentorship and investment, HAX's global network and resources can accelerate your startup's journey from prototype to product.
Haystack is an early-stage venture capital firm based in San Francisco, known for backing outlier founders at the earliest stages of their startups. The firm typically invests in pre-seed, seed, and Series A rounds, with investment amounts ranging from $250,000 to $1.5 million. Haystack's investment focus includes sectors such as analytics, data, AI, cloud infrastructure, developer tools, distributed workforce, and other enterprise technologies. Founded by Semil Shah, Haystack has built a reputation for supporting exceptional founders through a robust network of advisors, customers, and talent. The firm's portfolio boasts notable companies like DoorDash, Instacart, Canva, and Dropbox, reflecting its success in identifying and nurturing high-potential startups.
HB Ventures (Chinese: 木槿资本) is a Shenzhen-based technology-focused venture capital firm founded in 2018 by YT Tsoi. The firm is led by entrepreneurs, operators, and bankers with strong technical and financial backgrounds and affiliations with leading Chinese technology conglomerates. HB Ventures invests from Seed to Pre-IPO in companies with solid traction, bringing capital and corporate networks to accelerate their expansion. The team of 17 includes eight partners, with leadership comprising YT Tsoi as CEO and Founder, Kayla Yuen as Managing Director, Simon Zhou as Director, and Kylie Ho as Director. The firm leads rounds. HB Ventures focuses on Greater China and Southeast Asia, with openness to opportunities in the United States and Europe. Initial tickets range from $1 million to $5 million, with capacity up to RMB 50 to 100 million when partnering with strategic co-investors. Key sectors include semiconductors, AI and machine learning, Web3, advanced manufacturing, biotech, medical equipment, renewable energy, and fintech. The portfolio spans nine or more investments including ChangYi (WeChat-based enterprise SaaS for smart retail), Yizhu Technology (semiconductor CIM design), Pillar Biosciences (DNA sequencing and precision medicine), Laekna Therapeutics (cancer and liver disease therapies, which has achieved an IPO), E-Tronic (automotive semiconductor solutions using third-generation semiconductors), Leto Laboratories (directional protein refolding), MDHC (smart manufacturing for biological consumables in surgery and life sciences), and Shanghai Yilei Femtosecond Laser Technology (femtosecond laser R&D expanding into AI and humanoid robotics). HB Ventures manages multiple strategic fund partnerships — with Huafa Group for growth and pre-IPO deep tech in China and North America; with Xiamen Venture Capital Group and Goldford Group for early-to-growth emerging tech; and with Goldford Group and Web3Labs for early-stage Web3 and AI. The team and partners collectively have backed over 100 technology companies with notable capital markets and M&A outcomes.
HCVC (Hardware Club Venture Capital) is the first community-based venture capital firm for hardtech startups, founded in 2015 by Alexis Houssou on the thesis that hardware founders all face the same manufacturing, supply chain, and distribution bottlenecks — and can overcome them through a shared network rather than in isolation. The firm operates offices in Paris, San Francisco, and Tokyo and manages $130 million in AUM across two funds: Fund 1 ($50 million, 2018) and Fund 2 ($75 million, 2023). General Partners are Alexis Houssou, Jerry Yang, and Aymerik Renard, with former Renault F1 team principal Cyril Abiteboul serving as Venture Partner since 2021. HCVC invests at pre-seed and seed in hardtech startups building at the intersection of hardware and software, deploying checks from €250K to €2.5 million with a target of up to 40 portfolio companies per fund over five years. The firm leads rounds. Sectors include climate, defense, aerospace, enterprise robotics, consumer hardware, and deep science. The Hardware Club community connects 600 companies across 50 countries. Notable portfolio companies include Cowboy (electric bikes, exited December 2025), Renaissance Fusion (nuclear fusion), Dyna Robotics (which raised a $120 million Series A from Nvidia and Amazon in 2025), Chiral (next-generation nanomaterial chips, $12 million seed), Navier ($5.6 million for an AI engineering platform founded by SpaceX and Tesla alumni), Span (electrical panels), Caper (smart shopping carts), Automata (lab robotics), Radia (wind energy), and Augmenta (autonomous construction equipment). HCVC's community model creates compounding advantages for founders: access to peer knowledge on scaling hardware businesses, shared supply chain relationships, and co-investment opportunities within the 600-company network — benefits that compound over time and are unavailable to hardtech founders working through traditional VC channels.
Headline is a globally recognized venture capital firm with a robust track record in early-stage investments across various industries. Founded in 1999 and headquartered in San Francisco, Headline has established a significant presence in Europe, Asia, and Latin America. Their investment portfolio includes prominent names such as Sonos, Bumble, Farfetch, and SEMrush, highlighting their knack for identifying and nurturing market leaders in sectors ranging from fintech to consumer services and digital health. Headline's strategy is built on a unique technology-driven approach, leveraging proprietary platforms like EVA and ATHENA to identify and evaluate promising startups with precision. EVA uses sophisticated algorithms to monitor over 10 million companies, ensuring early discovery of high-potential ventures, while ATHENA helps in quick and accurate underwriting by analyzing company data to forecast growth trajectories and capital needs. The firm operates regionally-focused funds, including Headline US VII, Headline EU VII, and Headline Brazil III, which collectively raised $954 million in 2022 to support early-stage technology companies. This regional focus allows them to stay close to local markets and trends while maintaining a global perspective and infrastructure. Headline's commitment to diversity is evident, with a strong emphasis on investing in underrepresented founders and creating inclusive work environments. Their team of over 50 investment professionals operates from major cities worldwide, including San Francisco, Berlin, Paris, São Paulo, and Tokyo, bringing a wealth of local and global expertise to their investments. Overall, Headline’s innovative approach and global reach make them a formidable partner for startups aiming to scale and succeed on an international stage.
Heal Capital is a prominent venture capital fund based in Berlin, Germany, that focuses on early-stage investments in the digital health sector. Launched with strong backing from Germany's private health insurance sector, the fund is dedicated to driving digital transformation in healthcare by supporting innovative startups across Europe. Heal Capital typically invests between €1.5 million and €5 million in Seed to Series A rounds, targeting companies that develop solutions to improve patient care and healthcare delivery efficiency. The firm’s investment strategy is centered around digital health, med-tech, and biotech, with a preference for scalable solutions that integrate healthcare with cutting-edge technology. Heal Capital also leverages an extensive network of industry leaders and healthcare professionals to provide strategic guidance to its portfolio companies. Notable companies in Heal Capital’s portfolio include Apheris, a platform for collaborative data ecosystems; CereGate, a company developing computer-brain interfaces; and Gleamer, which uses AI to enhance radiology workflows.
HTH (Health Technology Holding) is a Milan-based venture capital firm specializing in investments within the life sciences sector. Established in 2020 as part of ZCube-Zambon Research Venture, HTH focuses on backing early-stage deep tech startups dedicated to improving human health. The firm’s investment strategy spans a broad range of verticals, including biotech, medtech, digital health, femtech, diagnostics, and consumer healthcare. HTH is particularly interested in companies leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as AI, advanced biotech, and novel medical devices that address unmet needs in healthcare. Their portfolio includes pioneering companies like SOM Biotech, which uses AI to repurpose existing drugs, and Neurofenix, a platform that aids in neurological rehabilitation through innovative sensor technology. The team at HTH is composed of experts from various scientific and technical backgrounds, including statisticians, pharmacists, and biotechnologists. This diverse expertise allows them to provide not only capital but also strategic guidance to their portfolio companies. They focus on fostering innovation that has the potential to make a significant impact on global health, with a special emphasis on scalable and sustainable solutions. HTH’s investments typically range from early to mid-stage companies, reflecting their commitment to nurturing breakthrough innovations from the ground up. The firm also actively collaborates with a wide network of healthcare companies and partners to drive the development and commercialization of transformative health technologies.
HealthQuad is India's leading healthcare-focused venture capital fund, co-founded by Quadria Capital in 2016. The firm targets early-stage investments in companies that are poised to transform the healthcare sector through technological innovation and improved accessibility. HealthQuad's mission is to enhance healthcare affordability, accessibility, and quality in India. The fund recently closed its second fund, HealthQuad Fund-II, raising $162 million, more than double its initial target. This fund focuses on investing in companies that digitize the healthcare value chain, addressing significant gaps revealed during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as the surge in teleconsultations and e-pharmacy usage. HealthQuad's portfolio includes innovative companies like Medikabazaar, THB, HealthifyMe, and ImpactGuru. These investments highlight the fund's commitment to supporting digital health platforms and integrated healthcare financing solutions. The fund plans to invest in 12-14 companies with individual cheque sizes ranging from $5 to $20 million. Led by co-founders Abrar Mir, Amit Varma, and Charles-Antoine Janssen, HealthQuad leverages extensive industry experience and a robust network to guide its portfolio companies through growth and innovation in the healthcare sector.
HealthQuest Capital, established in 2012 and headquartered in Redwood City, California, is a private asset firm dedicated to providing growth capital to transformative healthcare companies. Their investment focus spans medical devices, diagnostics, digital health, healthcare IT, and innovative services. They prioritize commercial-stage companies that demonstrate proven products or services and require resources to scale effectively. HealthQuest typically invests between $20 million and $100 million per company, often leading the investments and syndicating when necessary. The firm is committed to enhancing patient outcomes and healthcare delivery efficiency, managing approximately $2 billion in assets. The leadership team, spearheaded by founder Garheng Kong, consists of experienced professionals with a combined 300+ years in healthcare investing and operations. Key team members include Randy Scott, Sam Brasch, Sharath Reddy, and Conrad Wang. The firm also boasts a distinguished Board of Advisors featuring notable industry leaders like Regina Benjamin, former U.S. Surgeon General, and Bruce Broussard, CEO of Humana. HealthQuest's portfolio includes companies like Alcresta Therapeutics, Everlywell, Inbound Health, Pulmonx, and TigerConnect. They actively seek investments that offer innovative healthcare solutions and possess the potential for significant growth and impact.
Healthy Venture Capital (Healthy VC) is a premier early-stage investment firm focused on health tech and life sciences startups. With notable investments in companies like Hubble Telemedical and Lineus Medical, Healthy VC is at the forefront of healthcare innovation. The firm targets sub-industries such as telehealth, health data analytics, and digital health platforms, emphasizing technology-driven solutions to enhance patient care. Based in the U.S., Healthy VC invests globally, typically at pre-seed, seed, and series A stages, and often leads funding rounds to foster early growth. The team, including industry veterans like Sean Mendy and Ian Beadle, offers not only financial support but also strategic guidance and access to a broad network of healthcare leaders. For startups seeking investment, it’s crucial to demonstrate a strong technological foundation and a vision for transformative healthcare improvements. Healthy VC values innovations with significant impact potential and scalability in the healthcare sector.
HearstLab, founded in 2016, is a venture capital firm dedicated to investing in women-led, tech-enabled startups at the pre-seed, seed, and Series A stages. The firm focuses on sectors such as fintech, data analytics, healthcare, transportation, enterprise technology, and media. HearstLab aims to close the gender gap in venture capital funding by providing significant financial support and services to help female founders build scalable, sustainable businesses. The firm has invested in over 70 companies, contributing to a portfolio with an aggregate valuation of $2.4 billion. HearstLab is unique in its approach, offering not only capital but also extensive support services, including business development, legal, marketing, engineering, and product development. This support is further enhanced by their network of over 150 female executives from Hearst’s various businesses who provide mentorship and guidance to portfolio companies. HearstLab is chaired by Eve Burton, who also serves as the Executive Vice President of Hearst. The team includes Vice President Lisa Burton, Co-Lead Beth Devin, and Senior Director Katie Bailey, among others, all dedicated to fostering a strong community for their founders and partners. The firm also runs Pitch HearstLab, a live event series where early-stage female founders can pitch for a chance to secure a $100,000 investment and gain invaluable hands-on support from the HearstLab network. This initiative highlights their commitment to amplifying innovation and visibility for women-led startups.
Heavybit is a leading venture capital firm specializing in developer-first startups. Founded in 2013, Heavybit invests in early-stage companies that redefine how teams build, deploy, secure, and scale enterprise technology. Their focus includes sectors like DevSecOps, feature flagging, and Jamstack. Notable companies in their portfolio include Snyk, PagerDuty, LaunchDarkly, and CircleCI. Heavybit offers investments ranging from $500k to $5 million, focusing on pre-seed to Series A rounds. Their approach is highly collaborative, providing not just capital but also extensive support through their network of 600+ advisors and a community of over 140 technical founders. The firm is recognized for its hands-on involvement in scaling go-to-market strategies, helping technical founders turn their products into platforms and their visions into movements. This unique focus on developer-first companies makes Heavybit a valuable partner for startups aiming to innovate in the enterprise technology space.
Helen Ventures, the venture capital arm of Finland’s Helen Ltd., is focused on driving the energy transition through innovative investments. With a fund of €50 million, Helen Ventures backs European startups in sectors like e-mobility, renewable energy, circular economy, decarbonization, and digital solutions for energy management. The firm’s mission aligns with Helen’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030, aiming to disrupt legacy energy systems and create a more sustainable future. Helen Ventures invests in early and growth-stage startups, prioritizing teams with strong execution capabilities and scalable business models. Portfolio companies include Virta, a leading e-mobility platform, and EcoG, which provides IoT-based software for charging stations. These investments are part of a broader strategy to develop smarter energy ecosystems that promote efficiency, sustainability, and innovative technology. The firm’s team, led by Vice President Terhi Vapola, brings deep expertise in venture capital, M&A, and energy sector innovation. Helen Ventures is committed to working closely with its portfolio companies, offering not just funding but also access to Helen’s extensive energy infrastructure for piloting new technologies, along with strategic partnerships across the industry. Helen Ventures is dedicated to finding transformative solutions to global energy challenges, aiming to foster the next wave of sustainable energy innovations across Europe.
Helios Climate Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Aspen, Colorado, dedicated to combating climate change by investing in breakthrough technologies that offer both significant financial returns and measurable climate impact. The firm focuses on early-stage investments, particularly in the energy storage ecosystem, recognizing that advancements in this area are crucial for transforming energy generation and transportation sectors. Founded by a team with deep expertise in industry, science, government, and finance, Helios Climate Ventures emphasizes a hands-on, partnership-driven approach with both investors and entrepreneurs. Their portfolio includes companies like Alsym Energy, Ambient Photonics, and Factorial Energy, which are pioneering innovations in energy storage, renewable energy, and sustainability. The firm's investment philosophy is built on the belief that financial success is closely linked to the scale and speed of emissions reductions. By backing transformative solutions, Helios aims to reshape industries and contribute to a sustainable future.
Helium-3 Ventures is a New York-based venture capital firm founded in 2021 by David Hendrickson, John Dauer, and Matthew Bellamy. The firm focuses on investing in innovative, early-stage companies across a range of industries, including communications technology, renewable energy, space exploration, and advanced materials. Helium-3 Ventures targets transformative technologies that have the potential to revolutionize their respective sectors. The firm's portfolio includes investments in companies like Boom Supersonic, which is developing supersonic commercial flights powered by sustainable aviation fuel, and Quaise, which is pioneering deep geothermal energy technology. Helium-3 Ventures typically invests between $100K and $5M, with a sweet spot of around $1.5M. The firm is known for supporting companies that address global challenges and aim to create significant, long-term impact. With a strong focus on cutting-edge technologies, Helium-3 Ventures plays a critical role in backing ventures that could shape the future of industries ranging from energy and transportation to healthcare and manufacturing.
HELLA Ventures is the corporate venture capital arm of Forvia HELLA (formerly HELLA GmbH & Co. KGaA, now part of the FORVIA group following the Faurecia-HELLA merger), founded in 2015. The firm is headquartered in San Francisco with an additional presence in Northville Township, Michigan. Co-founded and led by Marco Marinucci as Lead Partner, HELLA Ventures is a multi-stage corporate venture capital fund focused on mobility, deep tech, and industrial manufacturing, investing in companies aligned with the corporate vision across automated driving, electrification, lighting technologies, connected car, Industry 4.0, and logistics. HELLA Ventures invests primarily at Seed, Series A, and Series B in companies across the United States, Canada, and Germany, with check sizes in the $1 to $10 million range. The first fund achieved a 40% net IRR and returned close to $50 million to LPs, with five exits ranging from $200 million to $1.5 billion at transaction value. Notable portfolio companies and exits include AEye (lidar technology, Nasdaq IPO August 2021), Oculii (radar AI, acquired by Ambarella), and Wejo (connected vehicle data). ZaiNar emerged from stealth with more than $100 million invested and a valuation exceeding $1 billion. Other active portfolio companies include actnano ($21.75 million Series B participant), Light Field Lab, CarForce, and Bright View Technologies (invested February 2025). Brighter AI was acquired by Milestone Systems in April 2025. HELLA Ventures provides portfolio companies with access to Forvia HELLA's global automotive customer base, manufacturing expertise, and technology development infrastructure — an asset particularly valuable for deep tech and mobility startups that need to prove their technology at automotive-grade scale and demonstrate it to major OEM customers.
Hemisphere Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Mercer Island, Washington, that focuses on pre-seed and seed-stage investments in cutting-edge technologies. Founded in 2014, the firm primarily invests in sectors like software, biotech, space tech, robotics, drones, and nanotechnology. Their portfolio includes companies like PlanetiQ, Axiom, and Finless Foods, which are leading advancements in space exploration, synthetic biology, and sustainable food production. Hemisphere Ventures actively seeks out companies that are pushing the boundaries of science and technology, often in niche but high-potential areas like space travel, advanced AI, and biotech innovations. They aim to provide not just capital but strategic guidance to help startups scale rapidly. The firm is known for supporting companies that have strong potential to reshape industries and create long-term societal impact. The team at Hemisphere Ventures consists of experienced founders, operators, and investors, who bring decades of expertise in building and scaling businesses across various industries. Their investments reflect a deep interest in transformative technologies with a global reach, helping startups grow at an unprecedented pace.
Henkel Tech Ventures, established in 2016 and headquartered in Düsseldorf, is the corporate venture capital arm of Henkel Adhesive Technologies. The fund primarily targets startups in Europe, North America, and the Asia-Pacific region, focusing on innovative solutions in adhesives, sealants, and functional coatings. Notable investments include ioTech, which developed a high-speed, multi-material additive manufacturing technology, and 3RT, which has created a robotic process for converting wood residue into high-quality hardwood products. Henkel Tech Ventures invests up to 5 million euros in early-stage startups, offering not only capital but also access to Henkel’s extensive global network and technical expertise. Their strategy emphasizes long-term collaboration, leveraging Henkel’s market and technology know-how to drive mutual growth. The fund looks for scalable technologies that complement Henkel’s existing portfolio and foster sustainable innovations. The team is led by Paolo Bavaj, Head of Corporate Venturing, who emphasizes scouting for technologies that enhance Henkel's core markets, such as electronics and engineered wood solutions. Startups benefit from mentorship by Henkel's top management and consulting by their technology experts, ensuring they receive both strategic and operational support. Recent investments include Direct-C, which specializes in hydrocarbon leak detection, and Smartz AG, which offers IoT solutions for adult care. Henkel Tech Ventures is a crucial partner for startups looking to revolutionize industrial applications through advanced materials and sustainable technologies.
Henkel Ventures is the corporate venture capital arm of Henkel AG & Co. KGaA, the German multinational whose brands include Loctite, Schwarzkopf, and Persil. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Dusseldorf, the fund manages €300 million in assets under management and invests between €0.5 million and €5 million per deal, targeting startups from Seed through Series B. Henkel Ventures leads rounds and collaborates closely with Henkel's two business units — Henkel Consumer Brands and Henkel Adhesive Technologies — to co-develop innovations and create commercial pathways for portfolio companies. The fund is geographically agnostic and provides startups with access to over 3,000 Henkel R&D experts. The fund's thematic focus spans Sustainovation (sustainability-driven innovation) and Digitalization, expressed through investments in climate tech, deep tech, commerce and MarTech, enterprise tech, and longevity. The active portfolio of approximately 24 companies includes Aether Bio (enzyme engineering, Henkel's most recent investment in December 2025), eeden (textile recycling, €18 million Series A in 2025), Actnano (nanotechnology for water damage protection), Copprint (copper nanoparticle conductive inks), CleanHub (ocean plastic recovery), Fero Labs (manufacturing optimization AI), ResearchGate (scientific network), Streetbees (AI consumer insights), LoveLocal (digital retail in India), and Software Defined Automation (industrial automation). Previous exits include ZipJet and NBD Nanotechnology, both acquired. The portfolio totals 27 tracked investments. Henkel Ventures creates a two-way value exchange: portfolio companies gain access to Henkel's global manufacturing, commercial, and scientific resources, while Henkel gains early exposure to technologies that could reshape its core adhesives and consumer brands businesses. Arianna Savini from the team received the Rising Stars 2024 award from Global Venturing.
Heroic Ventures, founded in 2016 by Michael Fertik and Matt Robinson, is a venture capital firm based in Palo Alto, California. The firm primarily focuses on early-stage investments, specializing in digital and life sciences startups within Silicon Valley and Israel. Heroic Ventures aims to back visionary entrepreneurs who are solving significant problems across various industries, including software development, consumer applications, and financial services. Heroic Ventures has made 55 investments, supporting companies such as Dwellsy, Triumph, and Nikkl. The firm emphasizes investing in the formation and first-money stages, providing critical support to startups from their earliest phases through to potential exits, such as sales or IPOs. The team at Heroic Ventures looks for passionate and dynamic founders with a strong vision, aiming to invest in products that directly address major market needs with a technological or intellectual property edge. Their investment strategy is characterized by a commitment to identifying and nurturing innovative solutions that can scale significantly.
Heuristic Capital Partners is an early-stage venture capital firm based in Santa Clara, California. Established in 2016, the firm focuses on investments in hardware-centric startups, especially within the health tech, robotics, medtech, and consumer electronics sectors. The firm aims to support companies through critical stages such as prototyping, financing, manufacturing, and scaling up their businesses. Heuristic Capital Partners has made 46 investments, with notable exits including companies like Lucira Health and LARQ. They provide a hands-on approach, leveraging over 25 years of professional and personal venture investment experience from their three managing directors: Michael Liao, Ren Du MD, and Shu Cao. This team brings a wealth of experience from startup challenges to IPOs and mergers. Their investment strategy is rooted in practical problem-solving and creativity, aiming to help startups overcome hurdles and achieve growth. The firm has raised $34 million for their first venture fund, emphasizing their commitment to supporting early-stage hardware innovations.
HG Ventures is the corporate venture capital arm of The Heritage Group, a family-owned conglomerate with nearly a century of industrial operating experience based in Indianapolis, Indiana. Founded in 2018, HG Ventures has deployed nearly $200 million across approximately 33 active portfolio companies, with individual investments of up to $20 million. The fund is led by Managing Directors John Glushik, Ginger Rothrock, and Kip Frey, with Mitch Black serving as the firm's first Entrepreneur-in-Residence. HG Ventures leads rounds and focuses on early to growth stage companies across advanced materials, infrastructure solutions, environmental technologies, specialty chemicals, and industrial systems. The portfolio is concentrated on sustainability and the circular economy. Notable portfolio companies include Battle Motors (electric refuse trucks), SOLARCYCLE (solar panel recycling), Voxel AI (AI-powered workplace safety), PinPoint Analytics (AI construction data platform), FREDsense ($7 million Series A led by HG Ventures for rapid water contamination testing), 6K (sustainable battery materials), Equispheres (metal powder for additive manufacturing), Aclarity (PFAS destruction technology), INERATEC (renewable fuels from CO2), and R3 Robotics (AI-powered battery recycling, invested February 2026). The Heritage Group Accelerator has served as a pipeline, with eight portfolio companies originating from the accelerator program. HG Ventures has completed eight exits, including Romeo Power Technology (acquired by Nikola Corporation), ReNew Power (Nasdaq: RNW, India's leading renewable energy independent power producer with 10 GW capacity), 120Water, Currents Marketplace, Epogee, Gauge, Loris, and Wildnote. The firm's industrial heritage gives it credibility and relationships across the supply chains its portfolio companies must navigate to reach commercial scale.