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Founded in 2011, GMPVC German Media Pool is a Berlin-based venture capital firm that operates as a media for equity fund. The firm specializes in scaling consumer-facing startups by providing extensive media presence across various platforms, including TV, radio, out of home, print, and social media. In 2022, GMPVC launched its cash venture fund, GMPVC Opportunities I, with a fund size of €15 million, complementing its media-for-equity model. This dual-track approach allows the firm to invest in startups at various stages, particularly from Seed onwards.
GMPVC has a portfolio of 36 companies, showcasing its active engagement in the venture capital ecosystem. The firm has established a strong track record with over 75 investment rounds and more than €400 million in gross media volume invested. Notable milestones include three IPO exits and two unicorns, reflecting the firm's ability to identify and support high-growth potential companies.
GMPVC's geographic focus spans Germany and other European markets, including Belgium, France, the Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, and Eastern Europe. The firm’s unique media-for-equity model enables startups to leverage substantial media investments as a growth lever, facilitating scaling in competitive markets.
GMPVC German Media Pool primarily invests in consumer-facing companies at the scaling stage, with a strong emphasis on Series A or later investments. The firm targets sectors such as consumer, commerce, healthcare, fintech, insurtech, and media. Their investment model includes media services in exchange for equity, with typical media investments ranging from €0.5 million to €5 million per deal. This approach ensures that the startups not only receive capital but also gain significant media exposure to enhance their growth trajectory.
GMPVC only invests in venture-backed companies, ensuring a robust growth trajectory for their portfolio. The firm considers all consumer categories, allowing for a diverse range of investment opportunities. Their focus on media as a growth lever distinguishes them from traditional venture capital firms, making them a unique partner for startups looking to scale effectively in Europe.
GMPVC German Media Pool has a diverse portfolio of 36 companies, including notable names such as:
Other portfolio companies include momox, a digital resale marketplace, and Sanity Group, which operates in the entertainment and media sectors. The firm’s investments reflect a strong focus on consumer-centric businesses that leverage media for growth.
Aljoscha Kaplan: Founder and Co-lead of both GMPVC and its cash venture fund. He has extensive experience in venture capital and media investments.
Dennis Ahrling: Co-lead of both funds, bringing expertise in scaling consumer-facing startups and media strategies.
Niko Waesche: Co-founder of German Media Pool since 2011, contributing to the firm's strategic direction and investment decisions.
To pitch to GMPVC, startups should visit their website at germanmediapool.com. They prefer pitches that include a detailed overview of the startup's business model, growth strategy, and how they plan to utilize media investments. Startups should expect a response within a few weeks after submission.
Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory. GMPVC encourages direct applications through their website.
In 2022, GMPVC launched its cash venture fund, GMPVC Opportunities I, with a fund size of €15 million, marking a significant expansion of their investment strategy. The firm has been actively investing in consumer-facing startups, leveraging their media for equity model to enhance growth.
Notable portfolio companies include ABOUT YOU, which has generated €1.7 billion in revenue, and CLARK, recognized as a unicorn since November 2021. These successes highlight GMPVC's effective investment strategy and its ability to identify high-growth potential companies.
What are GMPVC's investment criteria?
GMPVC invests in consumer-facing companies at the scaling stage, particularly from Seed onwards, with a focus on Series A or later. They target sectors such as consumer, commerce, healthcare, fintech, insurtech, and media.
How can startups apply or pitch to GMPVC?
Startups can pitch to GMPVC by visiting their website at germanmediapool.com. They encourage submissions that highlight the startup's growth potential and media strategy.
What makes GMPVC different from other venture capital firms?
GMPVC's unique media-for-equity model allows startups to receive substantial media investments in exchange for equity, providing them with enhanced visibility and growth opportunities that traditional venture capital firms may not offer.
What is the typical check size for investments?
GMPVC typically invests between €0.5 million and €5 million per deal, depending on the stage and needs of the startup.
What is GMPVC's geographic scope?
GMPVC primarily focuses on investments in Germany and other European markets, including Belgium, France, the Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, and Eastern Europe.
What kind of post-investment involvement does GMPVC have?
GMPVC provides its portfolio companies with direct media partnerships across multiple European markets, enabling enhanced visibility and growth. They actively support their startups in leveraging media as a growth lever.
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