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Founded in 2021, EWOR is a unique founder fellowship organization based in Germany that supports early-stage founders globally. The organization operates on a virtual-first model, emphasizing a flexible and modular support system tailored to the unique journeys of founders. EWOR is committed to investing in people, providing funding and mentorship to help them succeed in building transformative technology companies.
With a fund size of €60 million, EWOR has made 16 investments to date. The organization targets early-stage startups across various sectors, including AI, fintech, healthcare, and more. Notable milestones include the successful funding of companies like Kaia Health and ProGlove, which highlight EWOR's focus on impactful technology.
EWOR's approach is distinct from traditional venture capital, as it invests in exceptional individuals rather than existing companies. This founder-first model aims to empower the top 0.1% of founders to create generational impact globally.
EWOR focuses on early-stage startups, providing funding of up to €500,000 along with mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts. The organization emphasizes a personalized approach to support, targeting founders who are developing innovative technologies across various sectors, including AI, fintech, healthcare, biotech, energy, climate, consumer, edtech, food-agtech, and mobility.
The investment stages range from Friends & Family to Seed+, allowing EWOR to engage with founders at different points in their entrepreneurial journey. The organization operates globally, with a particular emphasis on Europe, and seeks to invest in individuals who demonstrate exceptional potential and a commitment to creating transformative solutions.
EWOR's thesis is centered on investing in people rather than companies, which allows them to provide tailored mentorship and support that aligns with the unique needs of each founder. This approach fosters a supportive community that encourages innovation and growth, ultimately leading to significant follow-on funding opportunities for portfolio companies.
EWOR's portfolio includes 16 companies, showcasing a diverse range of innovative technologies. Notable portfolio companies include:
Founders associated with EWOR include:
Daniel Dippold: Co-founder & CEO of EWOR, with extensive experience in supporting early-stage founders.
Alexander Grots: Partner at EWOR, bringing expertise in venture capital and startup development.
Florian Huber: Partner at EWOR, focused on attracting and supporting exceptional founders.
Petter Made: Partner at EWOR, with a background in technology and entrepreneurship.
Quinten Selhorst: Partner at EWOR, dedicated to fostering innovation and growth among portfolio companies.
Paul H. Müller: Partner at EWOR, contributing to the organization's mission of empowering top founders.
To pitch to EWOR, founders should use the preferred channel available on their application page. It is important to include a comprehensive deck that outlines the business idea, market opportunity, and the founder's background. Founders can expect a response within a reasonable timeframe, although specific timelines may vary based on the volume of applications.
Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory. Founders should focus on clearly communicating their vision and the transformative potential of their technology in their pitch.
In April 2025, EWOR announced a €60 million fund commitment from unicorn founders and global investors, aimed at supporting the next generation of fellows. This fund will enable EWOR to continue its mission of investing in exceptional individuals.
Recent portfolio activity includes investments in Gracia AI ($1.7 million) and Minitap (€3.5 million seed) in December 2025, as well as Epiminds ($6.6 million) in October 2025. These investments highlight EWOR's focus on innovative technology and early-stage funding.
What are EWOR's investment criteria?
EWOR invests in early-stage founders who are developing transformative technologies across various sectors. The organization focuses on exceptional individuals rather than existing companies, providing funding of up to €500,000.
How can founders apply or pitch to EWOR?
Founders interested in applying can visit the EWOR application page. The organization emphasizes that they invest in people, regardless of their current revenue status.
What makes EWOR different from traditional venture capital firms?
EWOR operates as a founder fellowship organization, focusing on investing in individuals rather than companies. This unique model allows for tailored mentorship and support that aligns with the specific needs of each founder.
What is the geographic scope of EWOR's investments?
EWOR has a global investment focus, with a particular emphasis on Europe. The organization seeks to support founders from various regions who are developing innovative technologies.
What kind of post-investment involvement does EWOR have?
EWOR provides tailored mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts, fostering a supportive community that encourages innovation and growth. The organization also helps founders secure significant follow-on funding within months of joining.
What is the typical check size for investments?
EWOR typically invests up to €500,000 in early-stage founders, providing substantial support to help them develop their ideas and businesses.
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