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Founded in 2018, Forestay Capital operates as the enterprise software fund of B-FLEXION, a private investment firm established by the Bertarelli family. The firm is headquartered in Switzerland, with additional offices in London, Geneva, Jersey, and Dublin. Forestay Capital focuses on providing growth capital to early-growth stage companies, particularly in the enterprise software sector.
As of now, Forestay Capital manages a fund size of $220 million and has built a portfolio of 13 companies. The firm emphasizes investing in companies that leverage artificial intelligence (AI) and software as a service (SaaS), particularly those at the revenue inflection point. Notable milestones include leading significant funding rounds and establishing a strong presence in the European and US markets.
Forestay Capital primarily invests in early-growth stage companies, participating in Series A, B, and C funding rounds across Europe, Israel, and the East Coast of the United States. The firm has identified four core investment themes: AI/ML infrastructure, data infrastructure, cybersecurity, and productivity & automation. They typically lead investment rounds with initial checks ranging from $10 million to $15 million, while also maintaining reserves for follow-on investments.
The firm seeks to partner with technology leaders who utilize AI and data with proven technology and scalable business models. Forestay Capital's investment strategy is focused exclusively on enterprise software, ensuring that they provide significant value through deep due diligence and strategic support to their portfolio companies.
Forestay Capital's portfolio includes notable companies such as:
These companies reflect Forestay Capital's focus on AI, SaaS, and cybersecurity, showcasing their commitment to investing in innovative technologies.
Frederic Wohlwend: Managing Partner. Prior to Forestay Capital, he served as the Global Chief Digital Officer of Merck KGaA and Serono, bringing extensive enterprise experience to the firm.
Deborah Pittet: Partner. She has a strong background in venture capital and technology investments, contributing to the firm's strategic direction.
Jonas Jeandupeux: Principal. He focuses on sourcing and evaluating investment opportunities, leveraging his expertise in enterprise software.
Labinot Brahimi: Vice President. He plays a key role in portfolio management and supports companies in their growth journeys.
Jannat Rajan: Principal. She specializes in market analysis and investment strategy, helping to identify promising startups.
Julien van den Rul: Senior Associate. He assists in due diligence and deal execution, contributing to the firm's investment processes.
Nicolas Slotine: Senior Associate. He focuses on financial analysis and supports the investment team in evaluating potential deals.
Varun Doshi: Associate. He is involved in sourcing new investment opportunities and conducting market research.
Jacob Emanuel Toresson: Associate. He supports the investment team with due diligence and portfolio management.
Bin Jin, PhD: Data Science Manager. He provides expertise in AI and data analytics, enhancing the firm's investment evaluation processes.
Samuel McClure: Portfolio Associate. He works closely with portfolio companies to support their growth and operational needs.
Stacey Mulvanerty: Team Assistant. She provides administrative support to the team, ensuring smooth operations.
Startups interested in pitching to Forestay Capital should submit their proposals through the firm's website at forestay.vc. It is important to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team qualifications. Founders should expect a response within a few weeks, and warm introductions can enhance the chances of receiving a timely review.
In June 2024, Forestay Capital led Neural Concept's $27 million Series B funding round, focusing on AI for manufacturing design. Previously, in 2021, the firm led Stratio's $12 million Series A funding round, which specializes in predictive maintenance.
As of now, Forestay Capital has backed a total of 13 companies, emphasizing its commitment to investing in enterprise AI and SaaS technologies. The firm closed its second fund at $220 million in July 2024, further solidifying its position in the venture capital landscape.
What are Forestay Capital's investment criteria?
Forestay Capital invests in early-growth stage companies, primarily in Series A-C funding rounds. They focus on sectors such as AI, SaaS, and cybersecurity, targeting companies that leverage AI and data with proven technology and scalable business models.
How can startups apply or pitch to Forestay Capital?
Startups can pitch to Forestay Capital through their website at forestay.vc. It is advisable to include a detailed business plan, financial projections, and information on the team and technology in the pitch deck.
What makes Forestay Capital different from other venture capital firms?
Forestay Capital focuses exclusively on early-growth stage enterprise software companies, particularly those utilizing AI and SaaS technologies. Their hands-on approach and deep due diligence process help enhance the value of their investments.
What is the geographic scope of Forestay Capital's investments?
The firm primarily invests in Europe, Israel, and the East Coast of the United States, ensuring a broad reach in the technology sector.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Forestay Capital typically writes initial checks ranging from $10 million to $15 million, with reserves for follow-on investments to support portfolio companies as they grow.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Forestay Capital have?
Forestay Capital emphasizes a hands-on approach, providing strategic support and guidance to help portfolio companies navigate growth challenges and capitalize on market opportunities.
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