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42CAP is a Munich-based venture capital firm founded by experienced entrepreneurs who have built two of Europe’s largest software companies. Established with a focus on seed-stage investments, the firm targets technology and data-driven B2B software companies across Europe. The firm operates with a current AUM of approximately €70 million and has made 94 investments to date, showcasing its active role in the European venture capital scene.
The firm is led by a team of five General Partners and two Associates, all of whom bring significant operational experience from their previous roles in major software companies. 42CAP has evolved through multiple fund generations, currently investing from its fourth fund, which continues to attract support from institutional investors, including InnovFin Equity under the EU Horizon 2020 initiative.
Notable milestones include the successful closure of Fund II at €50 million in 2019, reflecting the firm’s growing reputation as a specialized seed investor in the European B2B software market. The firm’s operator-led approach allows it to provide not only capital but also strategic guidance to its portfolio companies, enhancing their growth potential.
42CAP invests between €0.5 million and €3 million in seed-stage companies, primarily within Europe. The firm focuses on technology-driven software companies, particularly those that are data-driven and have global ambitions. Their investment strategy emphasizes agility, market potential, and product quality, seeking ventures that can achieve significant valuations and have a substantial addressable market.
The sectors of interest for 42CAP include SaaS, AI, healthcare, logistics, fintech, and martech. The firm looks for companies that demonstrate a strong founder-market fit and sustainable business models. Their thesis revolves around identifying high-potential ventures that can leverage technology to create impactful solutions in their respective industries.
42CAP's operator-led team utilizes their extensive experience to guide portfolio companies through challenges and opportunities, ensuring that investments align with the firm’s strategic focus on data-driven business models. This approach not only enhances the likelihood of success for their portfolio companies but also solidifies 42CAP's position as a leading seed-stage investor in Europe.
42CAP's portfolio comprises a diverse range of technology-driven software companies across various sectors. Notable investments include:
These companies exemplify 42CAP's commitment to investing in high-potential ventures that leverage technology to address significant market needs. The firm’s portfolio reflects its strategic focus on sectors such as AI, healthcare, and logistics, which are poised for growth in the coming years.
Thomas Wilke - General Partner. Co-founder of eCircle, a leading marketing cloud provider, and has led Teradata Marketing Cloud with 1,500 employees.
Alex Meyer - General Partner. Former eCircle VC investor and CFO, with experience as CFO/COO at Teradata. Holds an MBA from Berkeley.
Julian von Fischer - General Partner. Specializes in insurance and healthcare, previously worked at KPMG.
Moritz Zimmermann - General Partner. Co-founder of Hybris, acquired by SAP, and former CTO of SAP Customer Experience.
Johannes Oettingen-Wallerstein - Associate. Supports investment analysis and portfolio management.
Pauline Tilla Rittstieg - Associate. Engages in deal sourcing and due diligence processes.
To pitch to 42CAP, startups should visit the [42CAP Investor Portal](https://42cap.com/investor-portal). The portal outlines the preferred format for pitch decks, which should include key information about the business model, market analysis, and team background.
Response times can vary, but founders should expect to hear back within a few weeks after submission. Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory, as 42CAP is open to reviewing pitches submitted through their portal.
In recent months, 42CAP has continued to expand its portfolio, adding several notable companies in the technology sector. The firm remains active in seed-stage investments, focusing on B2B software solutions that align with its investment thesis.
42CAP's operator-led team has been recognized for its expertise in scaling technology companies, which has contributed to the firm’s reputation as one of the most specialized seed investors in Europe.
As of October 2023, 42CAP has successfully closed multiple rounds of funding for its portfolio companies, further solidifying its commitment to supporting high-potential ventures in the European market.
What are 42CAP's investment criteria?
42CAP primarily invests in seed-stage, technology-driven B2B software companies. They look for ventures that demonstrate agility, market potential, and strong product quality, with a focus on data-driven business models.
How can startups apply or pitch to 42CAP?
Startups can submit their pitches through the [42CAP Investor Portal](https://42cap.com/investor-portal). The portal provides guidelines on what to include in the pitch deck.
What makes 42CAP different from other venture capital firms?
42CAP is distinguished by its operator-led team, which includes founders of successful software companies. This background allows them to provide not only capital but also strategic guidance and industry expertise to their portfolio companies.
What is the geographic scope of 42CAP's investments?
42CAP primarily focuses on investments within Europe, but they seek companies with global ambitions, allowing for a broader market reach.
What is the typical check size for investments?
42CAP invests between €0.5 million and €3 million in seed-stage companies, with the capacity for follow-on investments as companies grow.
What kind of post-investment support does 42CAP provide?
42CAP offers strategic guidance, operational support, and access to their extensive network, helping portfolio companies navigate challenges and accelerate growth.
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