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.
CYFRD is a venture capital firm founded in 2016, headquartered in Kyiv, Ukraine. The firm focuses on supporting emerging technologies and innovative business models, primarily in Eastern Europe. CYFRD aims to partner with founders who are committed to their vision and possess strong industry experience. The firm has established itself as a key player in the region, particularly in sectors such as biotech, cybersecurity, healthcare, AI, and gaming.
As of now, CYFRD manages a small team of approximately five professionals, including two partners and a venture partner. The firm has a notable presence in the Ukrainian startup ecosystem and is recognized for its commitment to nurturing early-stage ventures. CYFRD has also been featured in various lists highlighting venture capital firms that support Ukrainian startups during challenging times.
Despite its relatively low deal velocity in recent years, CYFRD continues to operate and has made significant contributions to its portfolio companies. The firm is also known as CYFRD Frontech Investments in some contexts, indicating a potential brand evolution or dual identity.
CYFRD invests in both private equity and early-stage ventures, with a strong emphasis on technology-driven companies. The firm targets a wide range of sectors, including biotech, cybersecurity, healthcare, AI, and gaming. Investment stages range from pre-seed to growth equity, allowing CYFRD to support startups at various points in their development. The typical check size for investments falls between USD 20,000 and USD 100,000, making it accessible for early-stage founders seeking initial capital.
The firm operates an early-stage program called CYFRD Launchpad, which specifically supports pre-seed startups. This program is designed to provide not only capital but also strategic support to help companies scale their operations, initiate new projects, and navigate market complexities. CYFRD seeks to partner with founders who demonstrate a strong commitment to their vision and possess relevant industry experience, ensuring that they are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of building a successful business.
CYFRD's portfolio includes notable companies such as:
These companies exemplify CYFRD's focus on technology-driven ventures, with Party.Space representing a successful exit and Meredot showcasing innovation in the micromobility sector. The firm continues to seek out promising startups that align with its investment thesis and strategic goals.
Michael Kharenko - Partner. Michael has extensive experience in venture capital and has been instrumental in identifying and supporting technology-driven startups in Eastern Europe.
Yurii Filipchuk - Partner. Yurii brings a wealth of knowledge in the tech sector and has a strong track record of working with early-stage companies to help them scale.
Ronnie Apteker - Venture Partner. Ronnie has a background in entrepreneurship and venture capital, with a focus on supporting innovative startups in various technology sectors.
To pitch CYFRD, founders should visit their website at cyfrd.com or email hi@cyfrd.com. It is essential to include a comprehensive business plan in the pitch deck, detailing the startup's vision, market opportunity, and team qualifications. CYFRD prefers to receive pitches via email and values clear, concise communication.
Response times can vary, but founders should expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial but not strictly necessary. CYFRD encourages founders to reach out directly if they believe their startup aligns with the firm's investment focus.
CYFRD runs an early-stage program called CYFRD Launchpad. This program is designed to support pre-seed startups with investments typically ranging from USD 20,000 to USD 100,000. The program aims to provide both capital and strategic support to help startups scale their operations and navigate market complexities.
Eligibility for the CYFRD Launchpad program includes being an early-stage startup in the technology sector, particularly those based in Eastern Europe. Founders interested in applying can reach out through the firm's website or email for more information on the application process.
In November 2024, CYFRD celebrated the exit of Party.Space, a notable success in its portfolio. This exit highlights the firm's ability to identify and support promising technology-driven ventures.
In March 2019, CYFRD provided angel-stage support to Meredot, a Ukrainian wireless-charging solution for micromobility. This investment reflects CYFRD's commitment to supporting innovative startups in the region.
What are CYFRD's investment criteria?
CYFRD focuses on technology-driven ventures in sectors such as biotech, cybersecurity, healthcare, AI, and gaming. The firm invests in early-stage companies, particularly those based in Eastern Europe, and looks for founders who are committed to their vision and possess strong industry experience.
How can I pitch to CYFRD?
Founders can pitch to CYFRD by visiting their website at cyfrd.com or by emailing hi@cyfrd.com. It is recommended to include a detailed business plan and information about the team and market opportunity in the pitch.
What is the typical check size for investments?
CYFRD typically invests between USD 20,000 and USD 100,000 in early-stage ventures, making it accessible for startups seeking initial funding.
What makes CYFRD different from other investors?
CYFRD differentiates itself by providing not only capital but also strategic support to help portfolio companies scale their operations and navigate market complexities. The firm's focus on Eastern European startups allows it to leverage local insights and connections.
What is the geographic focus of CYFRD?
CYFRD primarily focuses on startups based in Eastern Europe, aiming to support the region's emerging technologies and business models.
What is the post-investment involvement like?
CYFRD is actively involved with its portfolio companies, providing strategic guidance and support to help them achieve their growth objectives. This includes assistance with scaling operations and navigating market challenges.
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.