Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
Barmenia Next Strategies (BNS) is an early-stage investment organization established in 2021 as part of the BarmeniaGothaer insurance group. Headquartered in Wuppertal, Germany, BNS focuses on investing in digital business models, particularly within the healthcare sector. The organization aims to provide financial support and industry expertise to young companies, enhancing their growth potential.
As a corporate venture capital entity, BNS operates differently from traditional venture capital firms. It invests directly from the balance sheet of BarmeniaGothaer, one of Germany's major independent insurance groups. This structure allows BNS to leverage the extensive resources and strategic network of its parent company, providing portfolio companies with valuable operational support and industry insights.
Currently, BNS manages a portfolio of five companies, primarily in the healthcare and insurtech sectors. The firm has established itself as a key player in the early-stage investment landscape in Germany, focusing on innovative solutions that address contemporary challenges in health and insurance.
Barmenia Next Strategies invests primarily in startups at the pre-seed and seed stages, with a strong emphasis on digital health and innovative business models. The firm seeks passionate teams that create value through creative ideas and digital solutions, particularly in the insurance sector. BNS is particularly interested in startups that focus on preventive health, chronic condition management, digital fitness and recovery, and sustainable food and wellness.
The investment strategy includes company building, where BNS identifies challenges and opportunities within the insurance industry and collaborates with founders to develop innovative business models. Initial investments can reach up to €500,000, with the potential for follow-on investments in subsequent funding rounds. BNS's geographic focus is primarily on Germany, but it also considers opportunities across Europe.
Barmenia Next Strategies has invested in five notable companies, each contributing to the digital health and insurtech sectors:
Among these, Eaze has achieved notable recognition, indicating a successful exit strategy for BNS.
Jan Seidel - Managing Director. Jan has a background in corporate strategy and played a key role in the integration of the Barmenia-Gothaer merger. His expertise lies in guiding the strategic direction of BNS and identifying promising investment opportunities.
Konrad Schultheiß - Managing Director. Konrad is a financial expert who leads the investment portfolio within the corporate finance team at BarmeniaGothaer. He brings extensive experience in managing investments and assessing financial viability in early-stage companies.
Startups looking to pitch to Barmenia Next Strategies should submit their proposals through the official website at [bns.vc](https://bns.vc). The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the business model, market analysis, and the team’s qualifications. BNS prefers concise presentations that highlight the unique aspects of the startup and its potential for growth.
Response times can vary, but founders should expect to hear back within a few weeks after submission. Warm introductions are beneficial but not strictly necessary for consideration.
Barmenia Next Strategies runs a program under the same name, focusing on early-stage investments in digital health and insurtech startups. This program aims to identify and support innovative business models that can benefit from the resources and expertise of the BarmeniaGothaer group.
Startups interested in participating in the program can apply through the BNS website, where they can find more details about eligibility and the application process.
In 2023, Barmenia Next Strategies made significant investments in two startups: Eaze, which focuses on sleep coaching technology, and Exakt Health, a digital solution for sports injury rehabilitation. These investments reflect BNS's commitment to supporting innovative solutions in the healthcare sector.
Additionally, BNS has been recognized in various media outlets for its active role in the startup ecosystem, particularly in the digital health space. Their portfolio companies have garnered attention for their unique approaches to addressing health and wellness challenges.
What are Barmenia Next Strategies' investment criteria?
BNS primarily invests in startups at the pre-seed and seed stages, focusing on digital health and insurtech sectors. They look for passionate teams that create innovative solutions addressing healthcare and insurance challenges.
How can startups apply or pitch to BNS?
Startups interested in pitching to BNS can visit their website at [bns.vc](https://bns.vc) for more information on the application process.
What makes Barmenia Next Strategies different from traditional VC firms?
BNS operates as a corporate venture capital entity, investing directly from the BarmeniaGothaer balance sheet. This structure allows them to provide not only capital but also access to industry expertise and operational support.
What is the typical check size for investments?
BNS typically invests up to €500,000 in initial funding rounds, with the possibility of follow-on investments in later stages.
What geographic areas does BNS focus on?
The primary geographic focus for BNS is Germany, although they also consider opportunities across Europe.
What kind of post-investment involvement does BNS have?
BNS provides operational support through its strategic network, including access to resources from the BarmeniaGothaer group, which can significantly benefit portfolio companies.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.