Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
LEAD is a global venture corporation founded in 2017 and headquartered in Berlin, Germany. The organization focuses on enhancing lives through sports and health technology, operating as an institutional asset manager with a family of funds and a strategic advisory arm. LEAD supports both global organizations and startups in these sectors, emphasizing a dual role in investment and advisory services.
As of now, LEAD manages approximately $155 million in assets under management (AUM) and has built a portfolio of over 70 companies. The firm has evolved since its inception, transitioning from its previous branding as leAD Sports & Health Tech Partners to LEAD in 2024. This rebranding coincided with the launch of a broader family of funds and the introduction of a strategic advisory arm, enhancing its capabilities in the venture capital space.
LEAD operates globally, with a particular focus on Europe, and has established partnerships with various strategic players in professional sports and health systems. The firm has achieved notable milestones, including the launch of multiple funds targeting different stages of investment, thereby solidifying its position in the sports and health technology sectors.
LEAD invests primarily in sports and health technology, targeting companies at various stages, including pre-seed, seed, and Series A funding. The organization manages four institutional funds, with check sizes ranging from $100,000 to $5 million. This investment strategy allows LEAD to support startups that are innovating at the intersection of performance, wellness, and digital innovation.
The firm’s investment thesis emphasizes the convergence of sports and health technology, seeking to back founders who can leverage a curated network of strategic partners in professional sports, health systems, and lifestyle brands. LEAD also provides advisory services, including mergers and acquisitions, innovation intelligence, and venture capital as a service, which further enhances its value proposition to portfolio companies.
Geographically, LEAD operates on a global scale, with a strong emphasis on the European market. The firm looks for startups that demonstrate a clear vision and potential for growth, particularly those that align with its focus on enhancing lives through innovative solutions in sports and health.
LEAD boasts a diverse portfolio of over 70 companies, showcasing its commitment to investing in innovative startups within the sports and health technology sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
These companies exemplify LEAD's investment strategy, which emphasizes the intersection of technology and health. The firm continues to expand its portfolio, actively seeking new opportunities that align with its mission to enhance lives through sports and health technology.
Alex Bente: Partner Investments, with a background in venture capital and a focus on sports technology.
Jeremy Pressman: Partner Investments, experienced in health technology investments and startup growth strategies.
Aaron Naisar: Partner Operations, specializing in operational support for portfolio companies.
Nathalie Sonne: Innovation Director, leading initiatives in health and wellness innovation.
Brian Thompson: Fund Partner Locker Room, focusing on partnerships with professional athletes and business leaders.
Justin Driscoll: Principal, involved in sourcing and evaluating new investment opportunities.
Anne Joachim: Finance & Accounting, managing financial operations and reporting.
Matt Foran: Healthcare Principal, focusing on investments in health technology startups.
Kaiwen Liu: Associate, supporting investment analysis and due diligence.
Moritz Gutheil: Analyst, assisting in research and portfolio management.
Thomas Rudy: Advisor, Lake Nona Fund, providing insights into health and wellness innovation.
Tino Schuster: CEO, WhiteRock, bringing expertise in corporate strategy and investment.
To pitch to LEAD, founders should visit their website at lead.vc. The firm prefers pitches that include a clear business model, market analysis, and detailed financial projections. Founders should also highlight their team's expertise and any traction they have achieved to date.
LEAD does not specify a formal application form but encourages direct outreach through their website. Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial, as they can facilitate a more favorable review of the pitch.
LEAD runs a program called LEAD, which focuses on supporting startups in the sports and health technology sectors. This program provides access to funding, mentorship, and strategic advisory services to help companies grow and succeed.
Eligibility for the LEAD program typically includes startups that are innovating in sports and health technology, particularly those at the pre-seed, seed, or Series A stages. Interested founders can apply through the LEAD website for more information on how to participate.
In 2024, LEAD rebranded from leAD Sports & Health Tech Partners to LEAD, coinciding with the launch of its new investment vehicle, LEAD ONE, which targets pre-seed companies. This strategic shift aims to enhance the firm's focus on sports and health technology.
LEAD has also expanded its portfolio, currently comprising over 70 companies, and continues to seek innovative startups in its target sectors. The firm emphasizes its dual role as an institutional asset manager and strategic advisor, offering valuable resources to its portfolio companies.
What are LEAD's investment criteria?
LEAD invests in sports and health technology startups at various stages, including pre-seed, seed, and Series A. The firm looks for innovative solutions that enhance lives and demonstrate potential for growth.
How can I apply or pitch to LEAD?
Founders can pitch to LEAD through their website at lead.vc. The firm encourages startups to provide a clear vision and detailed business metrics in their pitches.
What makes LEAD different from other venture firms?
LEAD combines investment with advisory services, offering support in mergers and acquisitions, innovation intelligence, and venture capital as a service. This dual approach provides portfolio companies with valuable resources beyond just funding.
What is LEAD's geographic scope?
LEAD operates globally, with a strong focus on Europe. The firm seeks to invest in startups that can leverage its extensive network in professional sports and health systems.
What is the typical fund size and check size for LEAD?
LEAD manages approximately $155 million in assets under management, with check sizes ranging from $100,000 to $5 million for its investments.
What kind of post-investment involvement does LEAD have?
LEAD provides ongoing support to its portfolio companies through access to a curated network of strategic partners, advisory services, and potential follow-on investments.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.