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.
FORWARD.one is a venture capital firm founded in 2017 in the Netherlands, focusing on early-stage investments in European startups, particularly in the technology sector. The firm has established itself as a key player in the venture capital landscape, with a current AUM of €145 million from its second fund and a target of €200 million for its upcoming third fund. The firm operates from its office located in Amstelveen, near Amsterdam, and has a strong commitment to supporting resilient founders in scaling their businesses.
Since its inception, FORWARD.one has invested in 30 companies, emphasizing a focus on commercialization and execution. The firm has achieved notable milestones, including successful exits such as Sensorfact, which was acquired by ABB, and Mayht, acquired by Sonos. These achievements highlight the firm's ability to identify and nurture high-potential startups in the industrial technology sector.
FORWARD.one invests in early-stage startups across various sectors, including AI, climate technology, robotics, industrial technology, and biotech. The firm typically invests between €1 million and €4 million at the seed stage, with the potential to provide follow-on investments of up to €15 million for successful companies. This investment strategy allows FORWARD.one to support startups through critical growth phases, ensuring they have the necessary resources to scale effectively.
The firm seeks smart, defensible innovations that target large markets, emphasizing the importance of execution-focused teams with significant ambitions. Their investment thesis is centered around the idea of investing early, scaling fast, and delivering exits, particularly in transformative deep tech areas such as semiconductors and climate innovation. This focus on industrial technology aligns with their mission to back resilient founders who are building essential solutions for customers.
FORWARD.one has built a diverse portfolio of 30 companies, showcasing its commitment to supporting innovative startups. Notable portfolio companies include:
These companies reflect FORWARD.one's strategic focus on sectors that are essential for future technological advancements and sustainability.
Riemer Smink — Partner: Riemer has extensive experience in venture capital and has led numerous successful investments in the technology sector.
Paul Pruijmboom — Partner: Paul specializes in industrial technology and has a strong background in scaling startups.
Arjan Göbel — Partner: Arjan focuses on deep tech investments and has a track record of supporting innovative companies.
Beau-Anne Chilla — Partner: Beau-Anne brings expertise in operational support and strategic guidance for portfolio companies.
Robin van Boxsel — Partner: Robin has a background in technology investments and is dedicated to helping founders achieve their goals.
John de Die — CFO: John oversees financial operations and ensures the firm's investments are managed effectively.
Cailin Greiner — Associate: Cailin supports the investment team in evaluating new opportunities and managing portfolio companies.
Boy de Jonge — Investment Manager: Boy focuses on sourcing and evaluating potential investments in the technology sector.
Merel Kok — Financial Controller: Merel manages financial reporting and compliance for the firm.
Julia Kuijs — Associate: Julia assists in deal sourcing and portfolio management.
Coen Bos — Venture Partner: Coen provides strategic insights and guidance to portfolio companies.
Bianca van Dulmen — Venture Partner: Bianca specializes in supporting startups in the climate technology sector.
Frederik Gerner — Venture Partner: Frederik brings expertise in robotics and industrial technology.
Marc de Jong — Venture Partner: Marc focuses on investments in high-tech startups.
Marcel Stolk — Venture Partner: Marcel has a background in venture capital and supports the firm's investment strategy.
To pitch FORWARD.one, founders should visit their website at forward.one. The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and team qualifications. It is recommended to provide detailed financial projections and a roadmap for growth.
Response times can vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are preferred, as they can facilitate a more favorable review process.
In April 2024, FORWARD.one announced the launch of its third fund, targeting €200 million to support European industrial tech startups. This fund aims to expand their portfolio to 25-30 companies, with a focus on the Nordic region alongside their core Benelux and DACH presence.
In 2023, the firm celebrated the successful exit of Sensorfact, which was acquired by ABB, marking a significant milestone for their Fund I investments. Additionally, Mayht, another portfolio company, was acquired by Sonos, further demonstrating FORWARD.one's ability to identify and nurture high-potential startups.
What are FORWARD.one's investment criteria?
FORWARD.one primarily invests in early-stage startups within the technology sector, focusing on areas such as AI, climate technology, robotics, and biotech. They look for smart, defensible innovations that target large markets and are driven by execution-focused teams.
How can I pitch to FORWARD.one?
Founders can pitch their startups through the firm's website at forward.one. It is advisable to include a clear business model, market analysis, and details on the founding team in the pitch deck.
What makes FORWARD.one different from other VCs?
FORWARD.one emphasizes a strong commitment to commercialization and supports resilient founders in scaling their businesses. Their focus on industrial technology and deep tech sets them apart in the venture capital landscape.
What is the typical check size for investments?
FORWARD.one typically invests between €1 million and €4 million at the seed stage, with the potential for follow-on investments of up to €15 million for successful companies.
What geographic areas does FORWARD.one focus on?
The firm primarily invests in startups located in Europe, with a particular emphasis on the Benelux, DACH, and Nordic regions.
What kind of support does FORWARD.one provide to portfolio companies?
In addition to capital, FORWARD.one offers strategic guidance and support to help portfolio companies scale their businesses effectively. They aim to empower founders to achieve their ambitions through active involvement and mentorship.
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.