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Carlson Investments SE is a venture capital firm founded in 2003 and headquartered in Warsaw, Poland. The firm, originally known as Hotblok S.A., rebranded in April 2019 and is publicly listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange under the ticker CAI, as well as on several German exchanges including Frankfurt, Stuttgart, and Munich. This unique structure makes Carlson one of the few publicly traded venture capital firms in Europe.
The firm specializes in providing access to venture capital investment opportunities across Europe, North America, and Asia, with a strong emphasis on Central and Eastern Europe. Carlson Investments SE manages a portfolio of approximately 40 companies, focusing on sectors characterized by technological innovation, including fintech, medtech, AI, IoT, and biotech. The firm is regulated by the Polish Financial Supervision Authority (KNF) and the German BaFin, ensuring compliance with financial regulations.
Carlson Investments SE targets private companies that demonstrate significant product or process innovation, particularly in the sectors of financial technology (FinTech), medical technology (MedTech), deep technology, artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and biotechnology. The firm operates without a fixed timeframe for exits, allowing for flexible investment strategies that adapt to market conditions and the specific needs of portfolio companies.
The investment strategy emphasizes long-term growth and sustainability, enabling Carlson to hold positions without the pressure of traditional fund lifecycle constraints. This open-ended structure provides broad investor access to venture capital-style returns through public market liquidity, allowing retail investors to participate in early-stage technology investments. The firm seeks founders who are innovative, driven, and capable of navigating the complexities of scaling technology businesses.
Carlson Investments SE's portfolio includes a diverse range of companies that exemplify technological innovation across various sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
In addition to these companies, Carlson Investments SE has invested in other notable firms such as Bioaccure, AutonomyNow, Sensus Mind, Nutrix, and Paymiq. The firm’s focus on sectors characterized by product or process innovation positions it well to capitalize on emerging trends in technology.
Artur Piotr Jedrzejewski — CEO and Founder. Artur has extensive experience in venture capital and technology investments, having founded the broader Carlson group. He has a strong background in managing investment portfolios and strategic planning.
Damian Goryszewski — Member of the Supervisory Board. Damian brings expertise in corporate governance and oversight, contributing to the firm's strategic direction.
Penelope Hope — Member of the Supervisory Board. Penelope has a background in finance and investment management, providing valuable insights into investment strategies.
Paweł Szewczyk — Chairman of the Supervisory Board. Paweł has significant experience in venture capital and corporate governance, playing a key role in the firm's oversight and strategic initiatives.
To pitch to Carlson Investments SE, founders should utilize the preferred channel of their website at carlsonvc.com or email office@carlsonvc.com. It is important to include a detailed business overview, market analysis, and team background in the pitch deck. The firm appreciates thoroughness and clarity in presentations.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial but not strictly necessary.
In August 2022, Carlson Investments SE partnered with Monaco Foundry, becoming the first publicly listed VC to utilize their accreditation and portfolio monitoring platform. This partnership aims to enhance the evaluation of companies based on management EQ, IP strength, legal documentation, financials, and carbon footprint.
The firm regularly files quarterly reports, with the most recent report for Q4 2024 submitted in February 2025. These reports provide transparency regarding the firm's operations and portfolio performance.
What are Carlson Investments SE's investment criteria?
The firm invests in private technology companies that demonstrate genuine product or process innovation, particularly in sectors such as fintech, medtech, deep technology, AI, IoT, and biotech. Carlson seeks companies that are scalable and have the potential for significant growth.
How can I apply or pitch to Carlson Investments SE?
Founders can pitch their ideas through the firm's website at carlsonvc.com or by emailing office@carlsonvc.com. It is recommended to provide a comprehensive overview of the business model, market opportunity, and team background in the pitch.
What makes Carlson Investments SE different from other VC firms?
Carlson is one of the few publicly traded venture capital firms in Europe, which allows it to provide unique access to venture capital investment opportunities through public market liquidity. This structure enables retail investors to participate in early-stage tech investments.
What is the geographic scope of Carlson Investments SE?
The firm invests across Europe, North America, and Asia, with a particular focus on Central and Eastern Europe. This geographic emphasis allows Carlson to leverage local insights and connections in these regions.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, Carlson Investments SE typically invests in early to growth-stage companies, aligning with its focus on technological innovation and scalability.
What type of post-investment involvement does Carlson Investments SE have?
The firm provides strategic guidance and support to its portfolio companies, leveraging its public market presence to enhance transparency and governance. This includes access to a broad network of resources and expertise to help companies navigate the complexities of scaling their businesses.
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