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Founded in 2021, DnA Ventures is an industrial tech advisory and early-stage investment firm based in Düsseldorf, Germany. The firm was established to accelerate the adoption of technology in the industrial sector, leveraging over 100 years of collective expertise among its team members. DnA Ventures has supported more than 50 leading manufacturing organizations across various sectors, including automotive, aerospace, consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, and industrial machinery.
As of now, DnA Ventures operates with a self-funded structure, allowing for a flexible investment mandate without the constraints of traditional fund cycles. The firm focuses on early-stage investments, primarily in the pre-seed to Series B stages, and has a portfolio that includes ten notable companies. DnA Ventures is committed to building the next generation of industrial leaders through its unique blend of capital investment and advisory services.
DnA Ventures invests in early-stage startups that are innovating in industrial technology across a wide range of sectors. Their investment focus includes industrial intelligence, smart infrastructure and cybersecurity, industrial automation and robotics, climate technology, the future of work, advanced production technology, and supply-chain resilience. The firm seeks to back industrial innovators who are reinventing the physical world, emphasizing both hardware and software solutions for manufacturing, energy, logistics, and supply chain.
Investment checks typically range from pre-seed to Series B stages, allowing DnA Ventures to engage with startups at various points in their development. The firm provides not only strategic capital but also industry expertise and access to a robust network of industry leaders. This support extends to assisting portfolio companies in securing non-dilutive public funding through hands-on help with grant applications, further enhancing their growth potential.
DnA Ventures has backed several notable portfolio companies, showcasing its commitment to industrial innovation. The portfolio includes:
These companies represent a diverse array of innovations within the industrial technology sector, reflecting DnA Ventures' strategic focus on advancing technology in manufacturing and related fields.
Dr. Dennis Küsters - Founding Partner, specializes in industrial technology with a strong background in operational excellence.
Anne Küsters - Co-Founder, oversees People & Operations, bringing expertise in organizational development.
Axel Scheurer - Senior Advisor, focuses on industrial tech, leveraging extensive experience in the sector.
Alexander Kruger - Industrial DataOps expert, known for his work in data-driven industrial solutions.
Kent Eriksson - Specialist in AI, Engineering & Operations, contributing to technology integration in industrial settings.
Rushabh Jinwala - Expert in industrial technology, focusing on innovative solutions for manufacturing.
Cinzia Lacopeta - Tech-enabled operations specialist, enhancing operational efficiencies in portfolio companies.
Kevin Denker - Industrial AI expert, driving advancements in artificial intelligence applications.
Josef Waltl - Focuses on industrial software, contributing to software solutions for manufacturing challenges.
Helmut Schmid - Robotics & Hardware specialist, known for his work in automation technologies.
Elisa Roth - Workforce Excellence expert, enhancing team performance in industrial environments.
Robert Feldmann - Industrial AI specialist, focusing on AI-driven solutions for industrial applications.
Erhard Feige - Lean Manufacturing expert, known for optimizing production processes.
Vladimir Romanov - Specialist in industrial automation, contributing to automation strategies.
Christian Dahlen - Industrial Software expert, focusing on software solutions for operational challenges.
Simon Pautmeier - Tech-enabled operations specialist, enhancing operational efficiencies.
Ibrahim Balde - UX/UI Design expert, focusing on user experience in industrial applications.
Moritz Weimer - Agentic AI & Procurement specialist, driving advancements in procurement technologies.
Lin Gong-Deutschmann - Expert in AI & Climate Tech, focusing on sustainable technology solutions.
Scott Kemp - Industrial Technology specialist, contributing to various industrial innovations.
To pitch DnA Ventures, founders should submit their proposals through the firm's website at dna-ventures.com. It is advisable to include a detailed pitch deck that outlines the business model, market analysis, and technology differentiation. DnA Ventures appreciates concise and clear presentations that highlight the startup's potential impact on the industrial sector.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect feedback within a few weeks. Warm introductions are preferred, as they can facilitate a more favorable review process.
DnA Ventures provides support for securing non-dilutive public funding through hands-on assistance with grant applications. This program is designed to help portfolio companies navigate the complexities of public funding opportunities, enhancing their financial resources without diluting equity.
Specific details about program duration, cohort size, or investment amounts were not provided, but the firm emphasizes its commitment to supporting startups in their funding endeavors.
On September 29, 2025, DnA Ventures made its most recent investment in Flow Tool, a company focused on educational software. This investment highlights DnA Ventures' commitment to supporting innovative solutions within the industrial technology sector.
Additionally, DnA Ventures has been actively involved in discussions around public funding opportunities for startups, publishing a series of blog posts titled Forschungszulage that detail requirements and updates regarding funding applications.
What are DnA Ventures' investment criteria?
DnA Ventures focuses on early-stage startups innovating in industrial technology. They look for companies that are developing solutions in sectors such as industrial intelligence, automation, climate technology, and supply chain resilience.
How can I pitch to DnA Ventures?
Founders can pitch DnA Ventures through their website at dna-ventures.com. It is recommended to include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and how the technology addresses specific industry challenges.
What makes DnA Ventures different from other investors?
DnA Ventures combines venture capital with industrial tech advisory services, providing not only funding but also strategic guidance and access to a network of industry leaders. This hybrid model allows them to support startups more comprehensively.
What is the geographic focus of DnA Ventures?
DnA Ventures operates on a global scale, seeking innovative startups from various regions that are focused on industrial technology.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not publicly disclosed, DnA Ventures invests in early-stage rounds, which typically range from pre-seed to Series B stages, allowing for flexibility in funding amounts based on the startup's needs.
What kind of post-investment support does DnA Ventures provide?
DnA Ventures offers ongoing support to portfolio companies, including assistance with securing non-dilutive public funding and guidance on strategic growth initiatives. Their team leverages extensive industry experience to help startups navigate challenges and scale effectively.
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