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kicker Ventures GmbH is a corporate venture capital firm based in Germany, established in August 2024 as the investment arm of Olympia-Verlag, a prominent publisher known for its leading sports magazine, kicker. The firm focuses on innovative technology and business models within the sports, media, and gaming sectors. By investing in emerging startups, kicker Ventures aims to support the growth of interesting founder teams through both minority stakes and full acquisitions.
As of now, kicker Ventures manages a portfolio of five companies, emphasizing early-stage investments primarily in the Pre-Seed and Seed phases. The firm operates out of Germany, with a specific focus on the DACH region, while also exploring international opportunities through joint ventures, such as its recent collaboration with Ringier Sports Media Group in Switzerland.
kicker Ventures leverages the extensive network and industry expertise of Olympia-Verlag to provide strategic guidance and support throughout the lifecycle of its portfolio companies. This approach positions kicker Ventures as a valuable partner for startups looking to navigate the complexities of the media and gaming industries.
kicker Ventures primarily targets early-stage companies, specifically in the Pre-Seed and Seed phases. The firm emphasizes sectors such as technology, sports, gaming, and media, seeking to partner with innovative founder teams. Their investment strategy includes both minority stakes and full acquisitions, allowing for flexibility in supporting the growth of their portfolio companies.
The firm is particularly interested in innovative technology and business models that intersect with sports, media, and gaming. This focus enables kicker Ventures to leverage its extensive network within these industries, providing valuable resources and insights to its portfolio companies. Additionally, kicker Ventures remains open to participating in later-stage financing rounds, demonstrating a long-term commitment to the success of its investments.
kicker Ventures has built a diverse portfolio of five companies, showcasing its commitment to the media and gaming sectors:
These investments reflect kicker Ventures' strategic focus on supporting innovative solutions in the media and gaming sectors, positioning the firm as a key player in these industries.
Oliver Kühn – Managing Director at kicker Ventures GmbH. He brings extensive experience in corporate development and strategy, having previously held leadership roles in various organizations.
Werner Wittmann – Managing Director at kicker Ventures GmbH. He has a strong background in investment management and strategic partnerships, contributing to the firm's growth and portfolio development.
Tobias Offergeld – Head of Corporate Development & Strategy. He joined kicker Ventures in March 2025 and is responsible for driving the firm's strategic initiatives and portfolio expansion efforts.
Fabian Furch – Experienced founder advisor supporting kicker Ventures. He provides insights and guidance to portfolio companies based on his extensive experience in the startup ecosystem.
Leopold Ingelheim – Experienced founder advisor supporting kicker Ventures. He offers valuable expertise and mentorship to founders navigating the challenges of building their businesses.
To pitch to kicker Ventures, founders should reach out via email, as specific email addresses are not provided in the source text. It is advisable to include a clear and concise deck that outlines the startup's vision, market opportunity, and growth strategy. Founders should be prepared for a response time that may vary based on the firm's current deal flow and priorities.
In March 2025, kicker Ventures signed a joint venture agreement with Ringier Sports Media Group, planning to launch operations in Switzerland in fall 2025. This collaboration indicates the firm's ambition to expand its reach within the sports media sector.
Additionally, in March 2025, kicker Ventures appointed Tobias Offergeld as Head of Corporate Development & Strategy, signaling an active phase of portfolio expansion and strategic growth.
In 2024, kicker Ventures fully acquired Quarter Media, enhancing its capabilities in digital media and advertising. The firm also acquired Handball World in 2023, further solidifying its position in the sports content space.
What are kicker Ventures' investment criteria?
kicker Ventures primarily invests in early-stage companies within the Pre-Seed and Seed phases, focusing on sectors such as technology, sports, gaming, and media. The firm seeks to partner with innovative founder teams and is open to both minority stakes and full acquisitions.
How can startups apply or pitch to kicker Ventures?
Startups interested in pitching to kicker Ventures can reach out via email. Specific email addresses are not provided, but interested parties are encouraged to contact the firm directly through their website.
What makes kicker Ventures different from other investors?
kicker Ventures operates as the investment arm of Olympia-Verlag, leveraging its extensive network and industry expertise in sports, media, and gaming. This unique positioning allows the firm to provide strategic guidance and support throughout the lifecycle of its portfolio companies.
What is the geographic scope of kicker Ventures' investments?
The firm primarily focuses on the DACH region, particularly Germany, but is also exploring international opportunities through joint ventures, such as its recent collaboration with Ringier Sports Media Group in Switzerland.
What is kicker Ventures' approach to post-investment involvement?
kicker Ventures adds value to its portfolio companies by providing strategic guidance and leveraging its extensive network within the sports, media, and gaming industries. The firm aims to support its companies throughout their growth journey.
What is the typical check size for investments made by kicker Ventures?
Specific check size ranges have not been disclosed, but kicker Ventures focuses on early-stage investments, which typically involve smaller amounts compared to later-stage funding rounds.
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