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199 Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2025 by Andréa Bensaid and Gaultier Brun, based in Paris, France. The firm specializes in investing in technology startups, particularly in sectors such as software, fintech, healthcare, and marketing technology (Martech). With a fund size of approximately $30 million, 199 Ventures has established itself as a key player in the early-stage investment landscape.
The firm has a portfolio of 10 companies, reflecting its commitment to supporting innovative startups. 199 Ventures emphasizes operational support alongside capital investment, focusing on marketing as a strategic growth lever. This approach aims to transform marketing into a measurable profit center for its portfolio companies.
199 Ventures has positioned itself as a partner for early-stage entrepreneurs, providing not only financial backing but also hands-on assistance in navigating the complexities of startup growth. The firm is actively involved in the European startup ecosystem, particularly in France, and continues to seek out promising technology ventures.
199 Ventures invests primarily in technology sectors, including software, fintech, healthcare, marketing technology (Martech), AI, Web3, energy, and consumer products. The firm targets early-stage investments, specifically in the pre-seed, seed, seed-plus, and Series A stages. Check sizes typically range from €50,000 to €100,000, with potential for larger investments depending on the startup's needs and growth trajectory.
The firm believes that marketing should be a core strategic growth lever for startups, rather than a secondary operating cost. This philosophy drives their investment thesis, which emphasizes the importance of operational support and marketing expertise. 199 Ventures seeks founders who are not only innovative but also understand the value of marketing in scaling their businesses. The firm is particularly focused on startups based in Europe, with a strong emphasis on the French market.
199 Ventures has invested in a diverse array of 10 startups, showcasing its commitment to various technology sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
This portfolio reflects 199 Ventures' strategic focus on technology-driven companies that have the potential for significant growth and impact in their respective markets.
Andréa Bensaid: Founder of 199 Ventures, Andréa has over 15 years of experience in digital marketing and has previously founded Groupe Eskimoz. He has advised major French scaleups and invested in more than 100 startups, focusing on acquisition, SEO, growth, and marketing strategy. His expertise is invaluable for portfolio companies looking to enhance their marketing efforts.
Gaultier Brun: As a VC at 199 Ventures, Gaultier began his career at Global Founders Capital and later joined Antler, where he opened the Paris office. He has supported over 200 entrepreneurs and brings expertise in early-stage venture processes, founder coaching, and fundraising. His background enables him to provide critical insights and access to the startup ecosystem.
To pitch 199 Ventures, founders should visit the firm's website at 199.vc and submit their applications through the designated portal. The pitch deck should include essential information such as the startup's mission, market opportunity, business model, and financial projections. Founders should also provide details about the amount of funding sought and the intended use of funds.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back from the firm after their submission is reviewed. Warm introductions are preferred, but direct applications through the website are also accepted.
In recent months, 199 Ventures has made significant strides in the startup investment landscape. In October 2025, the firm invested €100,000 in **DermaScan**, a health-focused AI startup. Following this, in December 2025, 199 Ventures backed **Well**, a B2B software company, with a €50,000 investment.
In January 2026, the firm continued its investment activity by supporting **Honest**, a fintech/B2C company, with another €50,000. Additionally, 199 Ventures has been involved with multiple stealth-mode startups in sectors like HR software and fintech, indicating its active engagement in identifying and supporting emerging technologies.
What are 199 Ventures' investment criteria?
199 Ventures primarily invests in early-stage technology startups across sectors such as software, fintech, healthcare, and marketing technology. The firm looks for innovative solutions and strong founding teams that understand the importance of marketing as a growth strategy.
How can founders pitch to 199 Ventures?
Founders interested in pitching to 199 Ventures can submit their applications through the firm's website at 199.vc. The application process requires details such as the amount sought, post-money valuation, and a pitch deck.
What makes 199 Ventures different from other VCs?
199 Ventures differentiates itself by combining capital investment with operational support and marketing expertise. The firm believes that effective marketing is essential for startup growth and aims to transform it into a measurable profit center.
What is the geographic focus of 199 Ventures?
The firm primarily focuses on startups based in Europe, with a strong emphasis on the French market. This geographic focus allows 199 Ventures to leverage local market knowledge and networks.
What is the typical check size for investments?
199 Ventures typically invests between €50,000 and €100,000 in early-stage startups, with the potential for larger investments based on the startup's needs and growth potential.
What kind of support do portfolio companies receive?
Portfolio companies benefit from operational support, strategic information gathering, and introductions to investors and industry experts. 199 Ventures emphasizes marketing as a core growth strategy, assisting startups in recruiting key hires and optimizing their marketing efforts.
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