Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
Heliad AG is a publicly listed investment organization founded by Bernd Förtsch in 2003, originally as FinLab AG. The firm is headquartered in Frankfurt, with additional offices in Berlin and San Francisco. Heliad focuses on providing access to capital markets for generational founders, supporting them from early stages through to IPO and beyond. The organization has evolved significantly, merging with Heliad Equity Partners GmbH & Co. KGaA in October 2023, which consolidated its investment capabilities.
As of now, Heliad manages a diverse portfolio of 24 companies, primarily in the technology sector, with a strong emphasis on the DACH region. The firm has a notable track record, having made 37 investments and achieved 9 exits. Heliad's commitment to fostering long-term partnerships is evident in its investment strategy, which spans various stages from pre-seed to growth equity.
Heliad AG invests in early-stage companies through its investment vehicle, Collective Ventures, targeting pre-seed to Series A stages. The firm also engages in growth-stage investments directly from its balance sheet, allowing for long-term partnerships that extend beyond traditional fund life cycles. Heliad's investment strategy encompasses a wide range of sectors, including fintech, AI, robotics, healthcare, energy transition, and mobility.
The firm typically invests between EUR 3.5 million and EUR 8.2 million per equity transaction, focusing on companies with revenues between EUR 10 million and EUR 150 million. Heliad emphasizes the importance of technology-driven sectors and seeks to support generational founders who are poised to innovate and disrupt their respective markets.
Heliad AG's portfolio includes a diverse array of companies that exemplify its investment strategy across various sectors:
These companies highlight Heliad's focus on technology and innovation, particularly in sectors that are rapidly evolving and have significant growth potential.
Bernd Förtsch: Founder and prominent entrepreneur in the German financial sector, known for his leadership in technology investments.
Julian Kappus: Co-CEO with extensive experience in venture capital and technology investments.
Ibrahim Köran: Head of GovTech, specializing in government technology solutions and investments.
Christopher Garlich: Head of Emerging Technologies, focusing on identifying and investing in next-generation technology companies.
To pitch Heliad AG, founders should visit their website at heliad.com for specific guidelines. The firm prefers pitches that include a comprehensive overview of the business model, market analysis, and team qualifications. Founders should also highlight their growth potential and how they plan to utilize the investment.
Response times can vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks after submitting their pitch. Heliad AG values warm introductions, so leveraging connections within their network can enhance the chances of a successful pitch.
In 2024, Heliad AG acquired Collective Ventures, a Berlin-based early-stage VC firm, expanding its capability to make earlier-stage investments. This acquisition aligns with Heliad's strategy to support generational founders and enhance its investment portfolio.
As of October 2023, Heliad AG has made a total of 37 investments and achieved 9 exits, showcasing its active role in the venture capital space. The firm continues to highlight its portfolio companies and investment strategy on its website, emphasizing its commitment to fostering innovation across multiple sectors.
What are Heliad AG's investment criteria?
Heliad AG primarily invests in early-stage technology companies, focusing on sectors such as fintech, AI, robotics, healthcare, energy transition, and mobility. The firm targets companies at the pre-seed to Series A stages through its investment vehicle, Collective Ventures, and engages in growth-stage investments directly from its balance sheet.
How can startups apply or pitch to Heliad AG?
Startups interested in pitching to Heliad AG can visit their website at heliad.com for more information on the application process. The firm encourages founders to present their business models, market potential, and team capabilities in their pitches.
What makes Heliad AG different from other venture capital firms?
Heliad AG distinguishes itself through its commitment to long-term partnerships with portfolio companies, providing access to capital markets and strategic guidance that extends beyond traditional fund life cycles. The firm emphasizes its focus on technology-driven sectors and its expertise in the DACH region.
What is the geographic scope of Heliad AG's investments?
Heliad AG has a global investment focus, with a particular emphasis on the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) and a presence in the United States. This geographic diversity allows the firm to tap into various markets and opportunities.
What is the typical check size for Heliad AG's investments?
Heliad AG typically invests between EUR 3.5 million and EUR 8.2 million per equity transaction, depending on the stage and potential of the company.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Heliad AG have?
Heliad AG maintains active involvement with its portfolio companies, providing strategic guidance, access to capital markets, and support for growth initiatives. The firm aims to foster long-term relationships that benefit both parties.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.