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.
May Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm founded in 2021 and headquartered in Münster, Germany. The firm focuses on investing in startups that are driving significant technological advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence and industry innovation. Since its inception, May Ventures has raised over €30 million for its first fund, which is actively deployed in the DACH region, emphasizing Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
The firm operates with a unique AI-native operational model, utilizing automated workflows across deal sourcing, due diligence, and portfolio support. This approach enhances the efficiency of their investment strategy and provides strategic guidance to portfolio companies. May Ventures is backed by a strong LP base, including NRW.BANK and Sparkasse/Volksbanken group banks, which aligns with their focus on public-aligned venture capital.
May Ventures primarily invests in pre-seed and seed stage companies, with initial check sizes ranging from €250,000 to €1,000,000. The firm is willing to commit up to €5,000,000 in total across multiple rounds for promising startups. Their investment strategy is concentrated on sectors related to artificial intelligence and industry innovation, targeting companies that are at the forefront of these technological shifts.
The firm seeks startups that demonstrate a clear potential for growth and innovation, particularly those utilizing AI-native operational models. May Ventures emphasizes the importance of founders who are not only technically skilled but also possess a vision for leveraging AI in their business models. Their geographic focus is primarily on the DACH region, with a particular emphasis on Northwest Germany.
May Ventures has invested in a diverse range of companies, with a current portfolio of 10 startups. Notable portfolio companies include:
In addition to these current investments, May Ventures has previously invested in several other companies, including:
Maximilian Derpa - Managing Partner; he has led significant investments including the pre-seed deal for Conmeet. His expertise lies in identifying promising startups in the AI sector.
Dominik Lohle - Managing Partner; he plays a crucial role in the firm's investment strategy and portfolio management.
Niklas Wirsching - Platform Associate; he supports the operational aspects of the firm and assists in portfolio management.
Alex von Frankenberg - Venture Partner; he brings extensive experience in venture capital and has a strong background in technology investments.
Nils Engelking - Venture Partner; he focuses on strategic guidance for portfolio companies, leveraging his industry knowledge.
Jannis Johannmeier - Venture Partner; he contributes to deal sourcing and due diligence, ensuring that the firm identifies high-potential startups.
To pitch May Ventures, founders should submit their decks through the online form available at mayventures.vc/submit-deck. The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and how the startup utilizes AI in its operations. Founders can expect a response within a reasonable timeframe, but specific timelines may vary based on the volume of submissions.
Warm introductions are preferred but not mandatory. Founders should ensure that their pitch is concise and compelling, highlighting the unique aspects of their startup and its potential for growth.
In October 2025, May Ventures announced the successful closing of its first fund, raising over €30 million. This fund is focused on early-stage investments in AI and industry innovation startups.
In September 2025, the firm publicly launched, positioning itself as an AI-native venture capital fund. This launch was covered by multiple German tech press outlets, including Startbase and VCwire.
May Ventures has also been actively hiring, indicating a phase of growth and deployment of capital into new investments.
What are May Ventures' investment criteria?
May Ventures invests in pre-seed and seed stage companies, focusing on sectors related to artificial intelligence and industry innovation. They typically provide initial check sizes between €250,000 and €1,000,000, with total commitments potentially reaching €5,000,000.
How can I apply or pitch to May Ventures?
Founders can submit their pitch decks through the online submission form available on their website at mayventures.vc/submit-deck. Alternatively, they can reach out via email at hello@mayventures.vc.
What makes May Ventures different from other VCs?
May Ventures distinguishes itself through its AI-native operational model, which employs automated workflows for deal sourcing, due diligence, and ongoing portfolio support. This approach enhances efficiency and provides strategic guidance to portfolio companies.
What is the geographic scope of May Ventures?
The firm primarily focuses on the DACH region, which includes Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, with a particular emphasis on startups located in Northwest Germany.
What is the typical post-investment involvement of May Ventures?
May Ventures actively supports its portfolio companies through its AI-native operational model, providing ongoing assistance in areas such as strategic guidance, operational efficiency, and scaling efforts.
What is the fund size and check size range?
May Ventures has raised over €30 million for its first fund, with initial check sizes ranging from €250,000 to €1,000,000.
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.