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.
Nineteen Twenty-One is a venture capital fund based in Vienna, Austria, founded by Fredrik Debong in 2025. The fund specializes in addressing the challenges associated with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and its related health issues, including cardiovascular, renal, neurodegenerative, and metabolic diseases. The organization operates under the EuVECA framework, ensuring compliance with EU regulations while focusing on early-stage investments.
As of now, Nineteen Twenty-One has a target fund size of €10 million and has already deployed capital into six innovative companies. The fund is managed by Infra One AT Management GmbH, which is licensed under Austrian law. Nineteen Twenty-One's commitment to the T1D community is reflected in its investment strategy, which emphasizes collaboration with mission-driven teams developing impactful solutions.
Nineteen Twenty-One primarily invests in early-stage companies that are developing solutions for type 1 diabetes and its associated health complications. The fund's check sizes range from €200,000 to €1.5 million, depending on the stage of the company. The fund reserves 40% of its capital for follow-on investments, ensuring continued support for portfolio companies as they grow.
The geographic focus is primarily on Europe, with a regulatory requirement that 70% of capital must be invested within the EU. Nineteen Twenty-One seeks to partner with mission-driven teams that are creating technology-enabled or biology-driven innovations. The fund's investment strategy is designed to support companies that can significantly improve the lives of those affected by T1D and related health issues.
Nineteen Twenty-One's portfolio consists of six companies that are innovating in the field of type 1 diabetes and its comorbidities. The portfolio includes:
Among these, mySugr is a notable exit, having been acquired by Roche in 2017, showcasing the potential for successful outcomes in this specialized sector.
Fredrik Debong — Founder & Fund Lead. Fredrik is a serial entrepreneur with a strong background in diabetes care. He co-founded mySugr, a diabetes management app that was acquired by Roche in 2017. He also co-founded Pioneers.io, an innovation platform, which he exited in 2018. Fredrik lives with type 1 diabetes, providing him with unique insights into the challenges faced by patients.
The fund is supported by an advisory network of over 30 global professionals, including clinicians, researchers, and patient advocates, many of whom have personal experience with T1D. This network enhances the fund's ability to provide strategic guidance and support to its portfolio companies.
To pitch Nineteen Twenty-One, founders should use the preferred channel of the fund's website at 1921.vc or email fred@1921.vc. The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the business, market analysis, and team qualifications. Founders can expect a response within a few weeks, and warm introductions are encouraged to enhance the chances of engagement.
As of March 2025, Nineteen Twenty-One has begun operations and is actively raising and deploying capital. The fund has already invested in six companies focused on type 1 diabetes solutions. The founder, Fredrik Debong, continues to leverage his experience from the mySugr exit to build a strong portfolio in this niche market.
What are Nineteen Twenty-One's investment criteria?
Nineteen Twenty-One invests in early-stage companies focused on type 1 diabetes and related health issues. The fund looks for technology-enabled or biology-driven solutions that can significantly improve patient outcomes.
How can I apply or pitch to Nineteen Twenty-One?
Founders can pitch their ideas through the fund's website at 1921.vc or by emailing fred@1921.vc. A detailed pitch deck should be included, outlining the business model, market opportunity, and team qualifications.
What makes Nineteen Twenty-One different from other VC firms?
The fund is uniquely focused on type 1 diabetes, driven by the founder's personal experience with the condition. This deep understanding of the T1D ecosystem allows for tailored support and strategic guidance for portfolio companies.
What is the geographic scope of Nineteen Twenty-One's investments?
The fund primarily invests in companies located in Europe, with a regulatory requirement that 70% of its capital must be allocated within the EU.
What is the fund size and check size range?
Nineteen Twenty-One has a target fund size of €10 million, with check sizes ranging from €200,000 to €1.5 million, depending on the stage of the investment.
What is Nineteen Twenty-One's post-investment involvement?
The fund provides not only capital but also strategic guidance and access to a strong advisory network of experts in the diabetes field, enhancing the growth potential of its portfolio companies.
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.