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Kickfund is a Swiss venture capital organization established to invest in deep-tech startups, particularly those recognized by the Venture Kick competition. Founded in 2023, Kickfund is backed by the Ernst Göhner and Gebert Rüf Foundations, which support its mission to position Switzerland as a leading hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. The organization has quickly gained traction, reaching a portfolio of over 100 companies within two years of operation.
Currently, Kickfund manages a fund size of CHF 75 million, focusing exclusively on early-stage investments in Switzerland. The firm operates with a lean team of three professionals, allowing for efficient management of its diverse portfolio. Kickfund's unique model emphasizes co-investment alongside lead investors, which enhances the growth potential of its portfolio companies while maintaining a light due diligence process.
Kickfund's notable milestones include its rapid expansion in the Swiss startup ecosystem and its commitment to supporting technology ventures that have demonstrated potential through the rigorous Venture Kick program. This approach not only fosters innovation but also strengthens the overall deep-tech landscape in Switzerland.
Kickfund invests primarily in deep-tech startups across various sectors, including biotech, healthcare, robotics, and frontier technologies. The organization targets early-stage companies, specifically those that have progressed through the Venture Kick program, ensuring a high standard of quality and potential for growth. Kickfund co-invests up to CHF 850,000 in leading ventures, providing essential resources and support to help these startups scale effectively.
The investment strategy is systematic, aiming to create a diversified portfolio of high-growth companies. Kickfund's focus on co-investment allows it to collaborate with other investors, enhancing the financial backing available to portfolio companies. The firm does not take board seats, which enables it to maintain a light operational footprint while still providing valuable strategic resources to its startups.
Kickfund seeks founders who demonstrate strong leadership capabilities and a clear vision for their technology ventures. The organization values innovative solutions that address significant challenges in their respective fields, particularly those that align with its focus on deep-tech advancements.
Kickfund's portfolio includes over 100 companies, primarily in the deep-tech sector. Notable portfolio companies include:
These companies exemplify Kickfund's commitment to investing in high-potential ventures that have already demonstrated their capabilities through the Venture Kick program. The firm’s portfolio spans various deep-tech verticals, including life sciences, robotics, and sustainable technologies, reflecting its broad investment thesis.
Wanja Humanes - Chief Executive Officer: Wanja has over 10 years of experience in venture capital, having previously worked at Swisscom Ventures and MTIP. He has held board positions at various startups, including Bring! Labs AG. Wanja is known for his insights into the Swiss startup ecosystem and has been featured on the Swisspreneur podcast discussing Kickfund's model.
Thomas Möller - Chief Investment Officer: Thomas brings a wealth of experience in investment management and has played a crucial role in shaping Kickfund's investment strategy. His background includes significant roles in various venture capital firms, focusing on deep-tech investments.
Startups interested in pitching to Kickfund should utilize the preferred channel of email, reaching out to Wanja Humanes at wanja@kickfund.ch. The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, competitive landscape, and the technology's unique value proposition. Founders should also highlight any traction or milestones achieved to date.
Kickfund typically responds to inquiries within a few weeks, depending on the volume of pitches received. A warm introduction through the Venture Kick network can enhance the chances of a favorable response.
As of August 2024, Kickfund has reached a significant milestone by crossing 100 portfolio companies, marking it as one of the most active early-stage investors in Switzerland. This rapid growth reflects the firm's commitment to supporting technology ventures and expanding its influence in the Swiss startup ecosystem.
In early 2026, Kickfund announced its final closing of CHF 75 million for its first fund, further solidifying its position in the market. The firm continues to focus on co-investing alongside lead investors, enhancing the growth potential of its portfolio companies.
What are Kickfund's investment criteria?
Kickfund focuses on deep-tech startups in Switzerland, particularly those that have passed through the Venture Kick program. The firm invests in sectors such as biotech, healthcare, robotics, and frontier technologies.
How can startups apply or pitch to Kickfund?
Startups can pitch to Kickfund by visiting their website at kickfund.ch or by emailing Wanja Humanes at wanja@kickfund.ch. A clear presentation of the startup's vision and potential is essential.
What makes Kickfund different from other VC firms?
Kickfund operates a unique co-investment model, focusing exclusively on startups that have demonstrated potential through the Venture Kick program. This approach allows for a high volume of investments while maintaining a light operational footprint.
What is the geographic scope of Kickfund's investments?
Kickfund exclusively invests in startups based in Switzerland, particularly those recognized by the Venture Kick competition.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Kickfund co-invests up to CHF 850,000 in leading ventures, providing essential financial support to help startups scale effectively.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Kickfund have?
Kickfund provides strategic resources and support to its portfolio companies but does not take board seats, allowing founders to maintain control while benefiting from the firm's expertise.
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