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HEARTFELT is a Berlin-based venture capital organization founded to support exceptional founders in building transformative companies across Europe and the United States. Established over a decade ago, the firm has a team of 11 full-time investment professionals with diverse backgrounds in early-stage venture capital. HEARTFELT positions itself as Europe's First Cheque Fund, focusing on early-stage investments and providing hands-on support to help founders succeed.
With a fund size of €88 million, HEARTFELT has invested in more than 300 startups across various sectors, including AI, fintech, climate, healthcare, logistics, and consumer goods. The firm has a strong emphasis on being the first institutional investor, helping teams transition from zero to one and achieve product-market fit. Their extensive experience and commitment to early-stage investing make them a compelling partner for startups looking to scale.
HEARTFELT primarily invests in early-stage companies, specifically targeting pre-seed, seed, seed+ (extension), and Series A stages. Initial investments typically range from €100,000 to €400,000, allowing the firm to support a diverse array of startups. The organization focuses on helping founders achieve product-market fit and often invests solo or alongside other early backers. They also participate in follow-on investments as companies progress through subsequent funding rounds.
The firm’s investment strategy encompasses a variety of sectors, including AI, fintech, climate, healthcare, logistics, and consumer goods. HEARTFELT seeks exceptional founders at the earliest stages, often acting as the first institutional investor. Their approach is to provide hands-on support and leverage their extensive network of follow-on investors, mentors, and potential corporate customers to help portfolio companies navigate the early stages of their ventures.
HEARTFELT has built a diverse portfolio of over 300 companies, showcasing its commitment to early-stage investing across various sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
Dr. Henric Hungerhoff — Co-CEO / Managing Director. Henric has extensive experience in venture capital and is part of the leadership team at HEARTFELT. He plays a crucial role in guiding the firm's investment strategy.
Jörg Rheinboldt — Co-CEO / General Partner. Jörg is also a key figure in the firm, contributing to its strategic direction and investment decisions.
Daniela Machado — Partner. Daniela is recognized for her expertise in early-stage investments, although specific details about her background were not disclosed.
Axel Roselius — Team Member. Axel is part of the HEARTFELT team, contributing to the firm's investment activities.
Gregor A. Erkel — Team Member. Gregor is also listed among HEARTFELT's employees, although specific investment focus details were not found.
Marcus Willand — Team Member. Marcus is part of the HEARTFELT team, contributing to the firm's overall operations.
To pitch HEARTFELT, founders should submit their pitch deck through the firm's website. It is advisable to include comprehensive information about the team, product, market opportunity, and financial projections. While specific email addresses are not provided, the website serves as the primary channel for applications.
Founders can expect a response within a reasonable timeframe, but it is recommended to follow up if they do not hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are preferred, but not mandatory.
In recent months, HEARTFELT has continued to expand its portfolio, with notable investments including Graftcode and Cato AI. These investments reflect the firm's commitment to supporting innovative startups in the AI sector.
Additionally, HEARTFELT has made a recent investment in Waving, showcasing their ongoing activity in the market. The firm remains active in identifying and supporting exceptional founders across various industries.
What are HEARTFELT's investment criteria?
HEARTFELT primarily invests in early-stage companies, focusing on pre-seed to Series A stages. They look for exceptional founders who are often at the beginning of their entrepreneurial journey and require initial funding to achieve product-market fit.
How can I pitch to HEARTFELT?
Interested founders can submit their pitch deck through the HEARTFELT website. It is recommended to include details about the team, market opportunity, and product vision in the pitch.
What makes HEARTFELT different from other investors?
HEARTFELT positions itself as Europe's First Cheque Fund, focusing on being the first institutional investor in startups. They provide hands-on support and leverage their extensive network to help founders navigate the early stages of their ventures.
What is HEARTFELT's geographic focus?
The firm primarily invests in startups based in North America and Europe, with a particular emphasis on European-origin founders.
What is the typical check size for investments?
HEARTFELT typically invests between €100,000 and €400,000 in their portfolio companies, allowing them to support a wide range of early-stage startups.
What kind of post-investment support does HEARTFELT provide?
HEARTFELT offers hands-on support to its portfolio companies, helping them navigate challenges and connect with follow-on investors, mentors, and potential corporate customers.
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