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Gentian Investments AG is an early-stage investment firm founded in 2017 by entrepreneurs Elian Kool and Gerhard Gerner. Based in Switzerland, the firm primarily targets investments in the DACH region, which includes Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, while also maintaining a global market perspective. Gentian Investments specializes in supporting enthusiastic teams across various sectors, leveraging the founders' extensive experience as entrepreneurs, board members, and advisors.
Since its inception, Gentian has built a portfolio of 15 companies, demonstrating a strong commitment to early-stage investments. The firm engages actively in sectors such as Software as a Service (SaaS), robotics, drones, and healthcare. Gentian Investments has established itself as a notable player in the early-stage investment landscape, focusing on high-growth potential ventures.
Notable milestones include successful exits such as Bring!, a grocery shopping app acquired by Swiss Post, and Firstbird, a recruitment platform sold to Radancy. The firm continues to expand its portfolio, actively seeking innovative technology ventures that align with its investment thesis.
Gentian Investments AG targets early-stage startups, particularly in the sectors of Software as a Service (SaaS), mobile applications, robotics, and drones. The firm is open to investing in other ventures where the founder team, the venture itself, and the growth potential are compelling. Check sizes typically range from $2 million to $5 million, allowing Gentian to support startups at various stages of their development.
The firm emphasizes its commitment to the DACH region while maintaining a global perspective. Gentian Investments seeks to partner with teams that demonstrate high growth potential and innovative solutions. The founders' entrepreneurial experience plays a crucial role in the investment process, as they provide operational support alongside capital to help portfolio companies succeed in their respective markets.
In addition to its focus on technology sectors, Gentian Investments is particularly interested in companies that leverage artificial intelligence and automation to enhance their offerings. This focus aligns with the firm's broader investment thesis, which prioritizes sectors that are poised for significant growth and disruption.
Gentian Investments AG has built a diverse portfolio of 15 companies, showcasing its commitment to early-stage investments across various sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
These companies reflect Gentian's focus on technology-driven solutions and its commitment to supporting innovative startups in their growth journeys.
Elian Kool - Co-Founder: Elian has a background in entrepreneurship and venture capital, having co-founded Gentian Investments AG in 2017. His expertise lies in identifying high-growth potential startups and providing operational support to portfolio companies.
Gerhard Gerner - Co-Founder: Gerhard brings extensive experience in business development and investment management. He has played a crucial role in shaping Gentian's investment strategy and supporting portfolio companies in their growth journeys.
To pitch to Gentian Investments AG, founders should visit their website at gentian.investments. The firm prefers detailed pitch decks that include information about the team, market opportunity, and growth strategy. While there is no formal application portal, a well-structured email introduction can also be effective.
Response times can vary, but founders should expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are encouraged, as they can facilitate a more favorable review process.
In recent months, Gentian Investments AG has been actively expanding its portfolio. Notable investments include a $16 million round for Sunflower Labs in November 2025, focusing on autonomous home security drones. In December 2024, the firm participated in a CHF 8.9 million round for Yeastup, a company innovating in the circular economy with yeast-based protein and fiber.
Additionally, Gentian Investments has made significant investments in companies like Aleno AG, which received CHF 4.5 million in November 2022, and Aspaara, which secured CHF 2 million in October 2022. These activities underscore Gentian's commitment to supporting innovative technology ventures in the DACH region and beyond.
What are Gentian Investments' investment criteria?
Gentian Investments focuses on early-stage startups in sectors such as SaaS, robotics, drones, and healthcare. The firm looks for compelling founder teams and high growth potential in the ventures they consider.
How can I apply or pitch to Gentian Investments?
Founders can pitch their ideas through the Gentian Investments website at gentian.investments. The firm encourages detailed presentations that highlight the team, market opportunity, and growth potential.
What makes Gentian Investments different from other VC firms?
Gentian Investments combines capital with operational support, leveraging the founders' entrepreneurial experience to assist portfolio companies in achieving their growth objectives.
What is the geographic scope of Gentian Investments?
The firm primarily focuses on the DACH region but maintains a global perspective, allowing it to invest in innovative startups worldwide.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Gentian Investments typically invests between $2 million and $5 million in early-stage startups, providing the necessary capital to help them scale.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Gentian Investments have?
Gentian Investments provides operational support and strategic guidance to its portfolio companies, helping them navigate challenges and capitalize on growth opportunities.
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