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Founded in 2023, emma Ventures is a venture capital firm located near Zurich, Switzerland. The firm is dedicated to supporting mission-driven founders from diverse backgrounds who are focused on creating sustainable business models. As a venture arm of the Swiss family office White Alps Invest AG, emma Ventures invests proprietary capital, allowing for a flexible investment approach without the pressures of traditional LP-raised funds.
Currently, emma Ventures operates with a concentrated portfolio strategy, aiming for 4-6 investments per year. The firm emphasizes a commitment to positive societal and environmental impact, aligning its investment strategy with founders who share these values. The team consists of co-founders Katja Baur and Christian Diller, both of whom bring extensive experience from private equity backgrounds.
As of now, emma Ventures focuses primarily on the DACH region, which includes Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, while also selectively investing in VC funds across Europe and the US. Their approach is characterized by a rigorous financial discipline and strategic guidance, ensuring that portfolio companies are well-supported in their growth journeys.
emma Ventures invests in early-stage companies across various sectors, including Digital Healthcare, Software/SAAS, Fintech, Insurtech, Edtech, Foodtech, and Consumer markets. The firm primarily targets the DACH region, emphasizing its commitment to supporting diverse founder teams. Their investment strategy is centered around backing mission-driven founders who are dedicated to building sustainable and impactful business models.
The firm operates at the Pre-Seed, Seed, and Seed+ (Extension) stages, providing capital that is typically higher than typical business angel investments. While specific check sizes are not publicly disclosed, the firm is known for its lead and co-lead capabilities in funding rounds. emma Ventures also maintains a flexible posture in its investment approach, allowing for co-investments alongside other investors.
In addition to direct investments, emma Ventures selectively invests in VC funds across Europe and the US, further broadening its impact and reach. The firm seeks to empower founders who are passionate about making a positive difference in society and the environment, aligning its investment thesis with sustainable business practices.
emma Ventures has built a notable portfolio of companies that reflect its commitment to diversity and sustainability. Key portfolio companies include:
This diverse portfolio showcases emma Ventures' focus on sectors that have a significant societal impact, particularly in healthcare, education, and consumer markets.
Katja Baur: Co-founder and Managing Partner at emma Ventures, Katja has a strong background in private equity. She has extensive experience in investment management and has been instrumental in shaping the firm’s focus on diversity and sustainability.
Christian Diller: Co-founder and Managing Partner, Christian also comes from a private equity background. His expertise in financial discipline and strategic guidance plays a crucial role in supporting the firm’s portfolio companies.
To pitch emma Ventures, founders should visit their website at emma.vc. It is recommended to include a detailed pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team background. Founders should expect a response time that varies based on the volume of inquiries, but typically, the firm aims to review pitches promptly.
Warm introductions are preferred, as they can facilitate a more favorable review process. Founders should ensure that their pitch clearly articulates how their startup aligns with emma Ventures' focus on sustainability and diversity.
In late 2023, emma Ventures made headlines with its first lead investment in Calingo, a digital insurance company focusing on pet insurance, where they led a $3.72 million Seed round alongside Zürcher Kantonalbank. This marked a significant milestone for the firm as it established its presence in the DACH region.
Additionally, emma Ventures has been recognized for its commitment to diversity in the startup ecosystem, positioning itself as a key player in supporting mission-driven founders. The firm continues to seek out opportunities that align with its investment thesis, focusing on sustainable business practices and diverse teams.
What are emma Ventures' investment criteria?
emma Ventures focuses on early-stage companies led by diverse founder teams. They prioritize sectors such as Digital Healthcare, Software/SAAS, Fintech, Insurtech, Edtech, Foodtech, and Consumer markets. The firm seeks mission-driven founders who are committed to building sustainable business models.
How can I pitch to emma Ventures?
Founders can pitch emma Ventures through their website at emma.vc. It is advisable to include a clear outline of the business model, market opportunity, and the team’s background in the pitch deck.
What makes emma Ventures different from other VC firms?
emma Ventures distinguishes itself by its strong emphasis on diversity and sustainability. The firm is dedicated to supporting mission-driven founders and applies rigorous financial discipline and strategic guidance to its portfolio companies.
What is the geographic scope of emma Ventures?
While emma Ventures primarily focuses on the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland), it also selectively invests in VC funds across Europe and the US.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not publicly disclosed, emma Ventures is known to provide capital that is higher than typical business angel investments, indicating a lead or co-lead capability in funding rounds.
What kind of support do portfolio companies receive?
Portfolio companies benefit from emma Ventures' expertise in private equity, which includes financial discipline, strategic guidance, and mentorship. The firm is committed to helping founders achieve their vision and scale their businesses effectively.
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