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Hard2beat is an early-stage venture capital firm located in Wrocław, Poland. Founded by a group of serial entrepreneurs and seasoned investors, the firm is dedicated to supporting Polish startups that demonstrate a clear technological advantage, particularly in the deep tech sector. Established to address the unique challenges faced by early-stage companies, Hard2beat has positioned itself as a key player in the Polish startup ecosystem.
The firm manages a fund size of €20 million, focusing on pre-seed and seed stage investments. Hard2beat has a portfolio of six companies, showcasing its commitment to nurturing innovation in various sectors, including biotech, healthcare, and cybersecurity. The firm is backed by PFR Ventures, which enhances its ability to provide resources and support to its portfolio companies.
Hard2beat's office is situated at ul. Księcia Witolda 49 lok. 15, 50-202 Wrocław, Poland. The firm actively engages with the startup community through events and initiatives, further solidifying its presence in the Polish venture capital landscape.
Hard2beat primarily invests in early-stage Polish startups, specifically at the pre-seed and seed stages. The firm targets companies that are either software-driven or hardware-enabled, ensuring they address significant challenges in their respective fields. The investment range includes initial checks of up to 3 million PLN (approximately $800K) and follow-on investments of up to 5 million PLN (around $1.3 million). Hard2beat explicitly avoids investments in B2C, marketplaces, and generic SaaS companies, focusing instead on deep tech solutions.
The sectors of interest for Hard2beat include biotech, healthcare, cybersecurity, defense, artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), and development tools. This diverse focus allows the firm to engage with a wide array of innovative technologies that have the potential to disrupt traditional markets. Hard2beat seeks founders who demonstrate a strong technological edge and a clear vision for addressing complex challenges through advanced technology.
Hard2beat's portfolio consists of six notable companies, each contributing to the firm's focus on deep tech innovation:
These companies exemplify Hard2beat's commitment to investing in technologies that address significant challenges across various sectors. The firm actively supports its portfolio companies through strategic guidance and access to a network of industry contacts.
Maciej Zawadziński - Founding Partner. Maciej has extensive experience as an entrepreneur and investor, having led multiple successful ventures in the tech sector. His expertise lies in identifying promising startups and providing strategic guidance.
Maciej Frankowicz - Founding Partner. Maciej brings a wealth of knowledge in venture capital and startup development, with a focus on deep tech investments. He has a strong track record of supporting early-stage companies.
Konrad Trzyna - Founding Partner. Konrad has a background in technology and entrepreneurship, contributing valuable insights into the firm's investment strategy and portfolio management.
Filip Bogdziun - Investment Manager. Filip is responsible for sourcing and evaluating investment opportunities, leveraging his analytical skills and industry knowledge to identify high-potential startups.
Sara Takeuchi - Investment Analyst. Sara supports the investment team by conducting market research and analysis, helping to inform the firm's investment decisions.
Michał Lechowski - Investment Associate. Michał assists in the due diligence process and portfolio management, contributing to the firm's efforts in supporting its startups.
To pitch Hard2beat, founders should visit their website at hard2beat.vc or email contact@hard2beat.vc. The firm prefers detailed presentations that outline the startup's technological edge, market potential, and team qualifications. Founders should include information about their business model, competitive landscape, and any traction they have achieved.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Hard2beat values warm introductions, so leveraging connections within the startup ecosystem can enhance the chances of a successful pitch.
In March 2026, Hard2beat made a notable investment of €1.7 million across three startups: Neuromedical, Defguard, and DefendEye. This investment highlights the firm's active engagement in the Polish startup ecosystem and its commitment to supporting innovative technologies.
Hard2beat has been recognized as the 'VC of the Month' by Vestbee, showcasing its reputation within the venture capital community. The firm is also backed by PFR Ventures, which provides additional resources and support for its portfolio companies.
Recent coverage of Hard2beat in publications such as AIN.ua and Private Equity International emphasizes its focus on deep tech and the potential for growth in the Polish market.
What are Hard2beat's investment criteria?
Hard2beat invests in early-stage Polish startups at the pre-seed and seed stages, focusing on software-driven or hardware-enabled companies that address significant challenges. The firm avoids B2C, marketplaces, and generic SaaS investments.
How can I pitch to Hard2beat?
Founders can pitch to Hard2beat by visiting their website at hard2beat.vc or by emailing contact@hard2beat.vc. The firm encourages detailed presentations that highlight the technological edge and market potential of the startup.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Hard2beat typically invests between 130,000 PLN and 800,000 PLN (approximately $30K to $200K) in initial checks, with follow-on investments reaching up to 5 million PLN (around $1.3 million).
What makes Hard2beat different from other VC firms?
Hard2beat's distinct focus on deep tech and its commitment to supporting Polish startups with a technological edge set it apart. The firm leverages the expertise of its founding partners to provide strategic guidance and access to a valuable network.
What is Hard2beat's geographic focus?
The firm exclusively invests in Polish startups, emphasizing its dedication to the local startup ecosystem and its potential for growth.
What kind of support do portfolio companies receive?
Hard2beat provides strategic guidance, access to industry contacts, and support in navigating the challenges of scaling technology-driven businesses. The firm also benefits from backing by PFR Ventures, which enhances its resources.
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