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Karista is a European venture capital firm founded in 2001 and headquartered in Paris, France. The firm specializes in early-stage investments across the Health, DeepTech, and Digital sectors. With a strong emphasis on human capital, Karista aims to support entrepreneurs from inception to success, providing not just funding but also strategic guidance and resources.
Currently, Karista manages two active funds: Karista V, which focuses on HealthTech, and Karista Tech I, sponsored by CNES, the French space agency, which targets SpaceTech. The firm has built a diverse portfolio of 148 companies, showcasing its commitment to fostering innovation in various high-tech fields.
Over the years, Karista has achieved notable milestones, including several successful exits, and has established itself as a key player in the European venture capital landscape. The firm operates from its Paris office and continues to expand its influence across Europe.
Karista invests in ambitious companies across several sectors, including healthcare, AI, space-tech, and defence. The firm provides funding from Seed to Series B+ stages, with check sizes ranging from $500K to $2M. This investment strategy allows Karista to engage with startups at various points in their growth journey, ensuring they receive the necessary support to scale effectively.
The firm is particularly focused on HealthTech and SpaceTech, emphasizing AI and data-driven solutions. Karista's investment thesis highlights the importance of human capital, as the firm seeks to partner with entrepreneurs who demonstrate a strong vision and capability to execute their ideas. The firm also values co-investment opportunities, often leading rounds and being one of the first investors in its portfolio companies.
Karista's portfolio includes a diverse array of companies, showcasing its commitment to innovation across multiple sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
Karista has also achieved notable exits, including companies like EchoSens, Theraclion, and Navya Technology, demonstrating its ability to identify and nurture high-potential startups.
Olivier Dubuisson - Managing Partner. Olivier has extensive experience in venture capital and has led numerous successful investments in the HealthTech sector.
Catherine Boule - Managing Partner. Catherine specializes in early-stage investments and has a strong background in supporting technology-driven startups.
Yvan-Michel Ehkirch - Managing Partner. Yvan-Michel has a deep understanding of the DeepTech sector and has been instrumental in developing Karista's investment strategy.
Baudouin Hue - Partner. Baudouin focuses on identifying high-potential startups and has a track record of successful investments.
Benjamin Zerbib - Partner. Benjamin brings expertise in operational support and strategic guidance for portfolio companies.
Agathe Biard - Chief Compliance Officer. Agathe ensures that Karista adheres to regulatory standards and best practices in venture capital.
Emmanuel Daugeras - Partner. Emmanuel has a strong background in finance and investment management, contributing to Karista's overall strategy.
Tom Beauvironnet - Investment Manager. Tom is responsible for sourcing and evaluating new investment opportunities.
Alexandra Desproges - Office Manager. Alexandra manages the firm's operations and supports the team in various capacities.
Amine Benmoussa - Partner. Amine focuses on investments in the technology sector and has a keen eye for emerging trends.
Alain Gavin - Venture Partner. Alain provides strategic insights and guidance to portfolio companies.
Anna Casal - Head of Communication. Anna manages Karista's public relations and communication strategies.
To pitch to Karista, founders should use the preferred channel available on their website at this link. The pitch deck should include a comprehensive overview of the business model, market opportunity, financial projections, and team background. Karista typically reviews submissions promptly, and founders are encouraged to provide as much detail as possible to facilitate the evaluation process.
As of March 2023, Karista continues to actively manage its portfolio, focusing on deploying its funds effectively. The firm has made significant investments in companies like TiHive and Deemea, which are at the forefront of technological innovation in their respective fields.
Karista has also achieved notable exits, including EchoSens and Theraclion, showcasing its ability to identify and nurture high-potential startups. The firm remains committed to supporting ambitious entrepreneurs across Europe.
What are Karista's investment criteria?
Karista focuses on early-stage companies in the HealthTech, AI, SpaceTech, and Defence sectors. The firm typically invests in startups at the Seed to Series B+ stages, with check sizes ranging from $500K to $2M.
How can I apply or pitch to Karista?
Founders can submit their pitch through the firm's website at this link or via email at contact@karista.vc. It is advisable to include a detailed business plan and financial projections in the pitch.
What makes Karista different from other venture capital firms?
Karista emphasizes the importance of human capital in its investment strategy, providing not only capital but also strategic guidance and resources to help entrepreneurs navigate their markets effectively.
What is Karista's geographic scope?
The firm primarily invests in European companies, focusing on startups that operate within its key sectors of interest.
What is Karista's post-investment involvement like?
Karista actively engages with its portfolio companies, offering mentorship, strategic guidance, and access to its extensive network to support their growth and success.
What is the typical response time for pitch submissions?
While response times can vary, Karista aims to review submissions promptly and will reach out to founders if they are interested in pursuing a conversation.
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