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IGS Investment is a venture capital fund established in 2018 and based in Gdańsk, Poland. The fund was created to support research and development (R&D) projects at the pre-seed and seed stages, particularly under the auspices of Poland's national R&D funding initiative, NCBIR's Bridge Alpha program. This initiative aims to enhance innovation by co-investing EU Structural Funds alongside private capital.
Currently, IGS Investment manages a fund size of approximately PLN 30 million (around €7 million), with a significant portion (PLN 24 million) sourced from European funds. The firm targets a minimum of 25 portfolio companies that are engaged in R&D projects, focusing on sectors with high commercialization potential. IGS Investment operates primarily within Europe, with a strong emphasis on the Polish market.
IGS Investment concentrates on early-stage R&D projects that exhibit high commercialization potential. The fund's investment strategy encompasses several key sectors, including biotechnology, fintech, renewable energy, and medical engineering technologies. Specifically, IGS Investment is interested in projects related to smart grids, geoinformation technologies, and intelligent creative technologies.
The firm typically invests at the pre-seed and seed stages, focusing on Proof of Principle (PoP) and Proof of Concept (PoC) projects. IGS Investment provides tailored solutions to its portfolio companies, which may include market entry consulting, business contacts, and financing options. This approach aims to maximize the return on investment while supporting innovative startups that are positioned for growth.
IGS Investment aims to build a diverse portfolio of at least 25 companies engaged in R&D projects. While specific portfolio companies have not been disclosed, the fund's focus includes various sectors such as biotechnology, fintech, and renewable energy. The firm has a particular interest in healthcare and biotech, with 9 investments in this area, alongside 3 in fintech and 3 in sustainable energy.
Additionally, IGS Investment has made 10 investments in technology and engineering sectors. This diversified approach allows the fund to support a wide range of innovative startups, enhancing their potential for successful commercialization.
Piotr Smólski - Member of the Investment Committee. He brings extensive experience in venture capital and has been involved in various successful investments.
Robert Nizioł - Member of the Investment Committee. He has a strong background in finance and investment management, contributing to the firm's strategic decisions.
Krzysztof Smólski - Investment Director. He oversees the investment process and has a proven track record in identifying promising startups.
Dr. Paweł Rubach - Lead Scientist. He provides scientific expertise and guidance on technology-related investments, ensuring alignment with R&D goals.
Maciej Pelc - Legal Counsel. He handles legal matters related to investments and ensures compliance with regulations.
Małgorzata Czernińska - Office Manager. She manages the day-to-day operations of the firm, supporting the team in various administrative tasks.
Startups interested in pitching to IGS Investment should submit their proposals through the official website at igsinvest.pl. It is recommended to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team qualifications. Response times may vary, so founders should be prepared for potential follow-up discussions.
As of October 2023, IGS Investment continues to focus on building its portfolio of early-stage R&D projects. The firm has successfully invested in a diverse range of sectors, including biotechnology, fintech, and renewable energy. Recent activities include ongoing evaluations of potential investments and strengthening partnerships within the Polish innovation ecosystem.
IGS Investment remains committed to its goal of supporting at least 25 capital companies during its operational period, leveraging both EU Structural Funds and private capital to enhance the commercialization potential of its portfolio.
What are IGS Investment's investment criteria?
IGS Investment focuses on early-stage R&D projects with high commercialization potential. The firm primarily invests in sectors such as biotechnology, fintech, renewable energy, and medical engineering technologies.
How can startups apply or pitch to IGS Investment?
Startups can apply through the official website at igsinvest.pl. It is advisable to include a detailed business plan and information about the team and technology in the pitch deck.
What makes IGS Investment different from other venture capital firms?
IGS Investment is unique due to its backing from the NCBIR's Bridge Alpha program, which combines EU Structural Funds with private capital to support early-stage R&D projects. This allows the firm to provide tailored solutions and resources to its portfolio companies.
What is the geographic scope of IGS Investment?
The firm primarily operates in Europe, with a strong focus on the Polish market. However, it is open to opportunities across the continent.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, IGS Investment targets early-stage investments that align with its fund size of approximately PLN 30 million (around €7 million).
What kind of post-investment involvement does IGS Investment have?
IGS Investment provides ongoing support to its portfolio companies, including market entry consulting, business networking opportunities, and access to additional financing, enhancing their potential for success.
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