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Peak is a venture capital firm founded in 2008, with offices in Amsterdam, Berlin, and Stockholm. Established by a group of five entrepreneurs, the firm focuses on supporting other founders by investing in early-stage technology-driven companies. Peak is notable for being 100% founder-backed, meaning it does not rely on institutional limited partners in its early funds. This unique structure allows the firm to maintain a strong alignment with the interests of its portfolio companies.
As of 2023, Peak is managing its fifth fund, which has a total size of €150 million. The firm consistently ranks in the top 10% of EU VC performance according to Pitchbook benchmarks, reflecting its successful investment strategy and execution. Over the years, Peak has built a reputation for backing innovative startups in the SaaS, marketplace, and platform sectors, primarily targeting the Nordics, DACH, and Benelux regions.
Peak invests in early-stage companies, specifically targeting the SaaS, marketplace, and platform models. The firm typically provides initial ticket sizes ranging from €250,000 to €4 million, with a strong emphasis on complementary teams, early traction, meaningful technology differentiation, and large addressable markets. Peak's investment strategy is built around the '4 T's': Teams, Traction, Technology, and Total Addressable Market (TAM).
In terms of geographic focus, Peak primarily operates in Europe, with a keen interest in the Nordics, DACH, and Benelux regions. The firm looks for startups that demonstrate strong founder-market fit and scalable business models. Peak's approach includes a preference for teams that possess a mix of technical and sales skills, avoiding single founders or incomplete teams. This comprehensive investment strategy positions Peak as a key player in the early-stage venture capital landscape.
Peak's portfolio includes several notable companies that exemplify its investment focus:
These companies reflect Peak's commitment to investing in technology-driven solutions that address real-world challenges, particularly in the SaaS and AI sectors.
Johan van Mil - Co-Founder & Managing Partner. Johan has extensive experience in venture capital and entrepreneurship, having co-founded multiple successful startups.
Stefan Bary - Managing Partner. Stefan brings a wealth of knowledge in technology investments and has a strong track record in scaling startups.
David Zwagemaker - Partner. David specializes in SaaS investments and has a background in engineering and product development.
Philippe v. Klitzing - Partner. Philippe has a deep understanding of marketplace dynamics and has led several successful investments in this sector.
Tea Elezi - Partner. Tea focuses on AI-driven startups and has a strong background in data science and analytics.
Thijs Dijkman - Partner. Thijs has experience in operational roles within startups and provides valuable insights into scaling businesses.
Julius Westphal - Investor. Julius supports the investment team with research and analysis, focusing on emerging technology trends.
To pitch Peak, founders should use the contact form available on their website. It is important to include a well-structured pitch deck that outlines the business model, team backgrounds, and traction metrics. Peak prefers to receive pitches through this channel rather than informal introductions.
Response times can vary, but founders can generally expect feedback within a few weeks. A warm introduction can be beneficial but is not strictly necessary.
On February 24, 2026, Peak announced its investment in VoiceLine, a voice-first AI platform designed for field sales teams. This investment highlights Peak's ongoing engagement in the technology sector and its commitment to supporting innovative startups.
In December 2022, Peak launched its fifth fund, raising €150 million to continue its focus on early-stage investments in Europe. This fund aims to back companies in the SaaS, marketplace, and platform sectors, reinforcing Peak's position as a leading venture capital firm in the region.
What are Peak's investment criteria?
Peak focuses on early-stage technology-driven companies, particularly in the SaaS, marketplace, and platform sectors. They look for strong teams, early traction, meaningful technology differentiation, and large addressable markets.
How can I apply or pitch to Peak?
Founders can pitch Peak through their website at peak.capital. It is advisable to include a clear business model, traction metrics, and team backgrounds in the pitch deck.
What makes Peak different from other VCs?
Peak is unique in being 100% founder-backed, which aligns their interests closely with those of the founders they support. This structure allows for a more collaborative and supportive investment approach.
What is Peak's geographic focus?
Peak primarily invests in Europe, with a focus on the Nordics, DACH (Germany, Austria, Switzerland), and Benelux regions.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Peak typically invests between €250,000 and €4 million in early-stage companies.
What kind of post-investment support does Peak provide?
Peak adds value through its extensive network of experienced entrepreneurs, providing strategic guidance and supporting growth through follow-on investments.
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