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Inerjys Ventures is a global investment fund founded in 2011, headquartered in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The firm was established to tackle challenges in the cleantech sector, focusing on accelerating the adoption of clean technologies. Inerjys Ventures aims to overcome barriers related to access to capital, commercialization, and the dominance of incumbent technologies.
The organization employs a hybrid investment model that combines elements of a blind-pool fund and direct investing. This structure allows Inerjys to provide tailored capital solutions to startups in the cleantech space. The firm has established partnerships with notable institutions, including a $1.2 million commitment from the Concordia University Foundation in April 2019, aimed at supporting three portfolio companies.
Inerjys Ventures has a strong emphasis on sectors that are often overlooked by traditional investors, particularly in the cleantech domain. The firm has made significant strides in building a diverse portfolio that includes companies focused on energy storage, water solutions, and advanced energy management.
Inerjys Ventures targets under-invested sectors and disruptive businesses within the cleantech industry. The firm focuses on key areas such as energy storage, water solutions, microgrids, solar energy, wind energy, food sustainability, tidal power, and advanced energy management. Inerjys typically invests in companies that are revenue-generating or close to commercialization, primarily at the Series A funding stage.
The firm’s investment strategy is designed to address the 'commercialization valley of death,' where traditional venture capital often hesitates due to long payback periods and hardware exposure. Inerjys Ventures seeks to provide patient capital to startups that are navigating these challenges, ensuring they have the necessary resources to scale their operations effectively.
Inerjys Ventures emphasizes the importance of innovation in the cleantech sector and looks for founders who demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainability and technological advancement. The firm is particularly interested in companies that can demonstrate a clear path to commercialization and have a viable business model.
Inerjys Ventures has built a notable portfolio of companies that reflect its commitment to cleantech innovation. Key portfolio companies include:
In addition to its active portfolio, Inerjys Ventures has achieved notable exits, including the acquisition of Solantro by Huada Semiconductor in Q3 2018. This exit highlights the firm's ability to identify and support companies that can achieve significant market success.
Stephan Ouaknine: Managing Partner. Ouaknine is a serial entrepreneur with a background in telecom and IT. He has successfully led three prior exits and brings extensive experience in building and scaling technology companies.
Dave Furneaux: Partner. Furneaux has over 20 years of experience as a company builder and tech investor, focusing on identifying and supporting innovative startups in the cleantech sector.
Jigar Shah: Partner. Shah previously served as the CEO of Carbon War Room and led the US Department of Energy's Loan Programs Office. His expertise in clean energy financing adds significant credibility to Inerjys Ventures' investment thesis.
Russell Pullan: Partner. Pullan has a strong background in venture capital and operational management, contributing to the firm's strategic direction and investment decisions.
To pitch Inerjys Ventures, founders should visit the firm's website and utilize the application portal. It is essential to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and financial projections.
Inerjys prefers pitches that clearly articulate the startup's value proposition and its alignment with cleantech innovation. Founders should expect a response within a few weeks, although timelines may vary based on the volume of applications received.
Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory. Founders are encouraged to reach out directly through the website's contact form if they do not have a mutual connection.
Inerjys Ventures has been actively updating its portfolio and investment strategies, emphasizing its commitment to addressing challenges in the cleantech sector. Recent activities include highlighting notable portfolio companies and their contributions to sustainability.
In April 2019, Inerjys Ventures announced a partnership with the Concordia University Foundation, committing $1.2 million to support three portfolio companies. This partnership underscores the firm's dedication to fostering innovation in the cleantech space.
While no specific deal announcements have surfaced for 2023-2025, the firm continues to focus on its existing portfolio and the ongoing development of its investment strategies.
What are Inerjys Ventures' investment criteria?
Inerjys Ventures focuses on cleantech companies that are revenue-generating or close to commercialization, primarily in the Series A funding stage. The firm targets under-invested sectors and disruptive businesses within the cleantech industry.
How can I pitch to Inerjys Ventures?
Founders can submit their pitch through the application portal available on the Inerjys Ventures website. It is recommended to include a detailed business plan, market analysis, and financial projections in the pitch deck.
What makes Inerjys Ventures different from other investors?
Inerjys Ventures specializes in the cleantech sector, focusing on areas that traditional investors often overlook. The firm is committed to providing patient capital to startups navigating the commercialization valley of death.
What is the geographic focus of Inerjys Ventures?
The firm has a global investment approach, with a particular emphasis on North America. This allows them to tap into a wide range of cleantech innovations and opportunities.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not publicly disclosed, Inerjys Ventures primarily invests in Series A rounds, which typically range from $1 million to $5 million, depending on the company's needs and growth potential.
What kind of post-investment support does Inerjys Ventures provide?
Inerjys Ventures offers operational support and strategic guidance to its portfolio companies, helping them navigate challenges in scaling their businesses and achieving commercialization.
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