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Helantic is a venture capital organization founded in 2025, headquartered in Munich, Germany. The firm focuses on the European defense and deep technology sectors, aiming to fill a market gap in early-stage defense investing. Helantic targets startups innovating at the intersection of commercial and defense applications, particularly in light of increased European defense spending following geopolitical tensions.
The firm has a target fund size of €100 million and is currently in the early deployment phase, having announced its fund in early 2025. Helantic's investment strategy emphasizes dual-use technologies, which serve both commercial and military purposes. The organization is positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for advanced technologies in defense, recognizing the increasing interconnection between defense and deep tech advancements.
Helantic invests in early-stage companies within the defense and deep tech industries, specifically targeting Seed and Series A funding rounds. The firm focuses on sectors such as artificial intelligence, robotics, autonomous systems, and cybersecurity, as well as enabling components like batteries and sensors. Helantic's investment strategy is designed to support startups that are developing technologies with dual-use applications, which can be utilized in both commercial and defense contexts.
The geographic focus of Helantic is primarily on Germany, with approximately 50% of investments allocated there, while 30% targets Central and Eastern Europe, and 20% is open to global opportunities. The firm seeks to foster innovation in areas that are critical to modern defense capabilities, recognizing that advancements in deep tech are essential for the future of defense.
Helantic's portfolio includes notable companies such as:
As a new fund, Helantic is still in the early stages of building its portfolio, with these companies representing its initial investments in the defense and deep tech sectors.
Christoph von Falck: Co-founder of Helantic, Christoph has a background in venture capital and a focus on defense technologies. His expertise lies in identifying market opportunities within the defense sector.
Martin Buhl: Co-founder of Helantic, Martin brings experience in early-stage investments and a strong understanding of the deep tech landscape. He is dedicated to fostering innovation in dual-use technologies.
Marian Rachow: Co-founder of Helantic, Marian has a background in technology commercialization and defense applications. He plays a key role in guiding portfolio companies through the complexities of the defense market.
To pitch Helantic, founders should visit their website at www.helantic.com. The firm prefers detailed proposals that clearly outline the startup's technology, market potential, and dual-use applications. Founders should include information about their team, product development stage, and any traction they have achieved.
Helantic does not specify a formal application portal, but interested parties are encouraged to reach out through their website. Response times may vary, but founders should expect a thorough review process given the firm's focus on early-stage investments in a specialized sector.
As of March 2026, Helantic is in the early deployment phase of its fund, having launched in early 2025. The firm has made initial investments in companies such as HyImpulse and Fernride, focusing on the defense and deep tech sectors.
Helantic is recognized as one of the newest entrants in the European defense tech VC space, aiming to address the growing demand for advanced technologies in defense. The firm is positioned alongside other notable investors in the sector, such as the NATO Innovation Fund and Karista.
What are Helantic's investment criteria?
Helantic focuses on early-stage companies in the defense and deep tech sectors, specifically targeting Seed and Series A funding rounds. The firm looks for startups that are developing dual-use technologies applicable in both commercial and defense contexts.
How can founders pitch to Helantic?
Founders interested in pitching to Helantic can visit their website at www.helantic.com for more information on the application process and to submit their proposals.
What makes Helantic different from other VCs?
Helantic is distinct in its focus on dual-use technologies within the European defense sector, addressing a market gap in early-stage defense investing. The firm aims to support startups that are innovating at the intersection of commercial and defense applications.
What is Helantic's geographic scope?
Helantic primarily invests in Germany, with about 50% of its investments allocated there. The firm also targets Central and Eastern Europe (30%) and has a global investment strategy (20%).
What is the typical check size for investments?
Helantic typically invests between $1 million and $8 million in its portfolio companies, aligning with its focus on early-stage funding.
What kind of support does Helantic provide to its portfolio companies?
Helantic offers strategic support by leveraging its expertise in defense and deep technology, facilitating industry connections, and assisting startups in navigating the complexities of dual-use applications.
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