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.
Pina Capital is a Germany-based investment firm founded in 2025, focusing on the succession of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Europe. The firm employs a search fund model to support entrepreneurs in acquiring profitable, owner-led businesses. By identifying hidden champions often overlooked by traditional private equity, Pina Capital provides a structured approach to financing and operational improvement.
Headquartered in Berlin and Frankfurt, Pina Capital operates with a team of experienced professionals dedicated to enhancing the value of acquired SMEs. The firm has established partnerships with various search funds, emphasizing its commitment to the European market. Pina Capital's investment strategy is designed to uncover opportunities in the SME sector, ensuring that they back resilient businesses capable of thriving across economic cycles.
As of 2026, Pina Capital has gained recognition for its unique approach to investment, focusing on cash-generative companies with diversified revenue streams. The firm has actively participated in notable acquisitions, demonstrating its effectiveness in the search fund model and its dedication to supporting entrepreneurs throughout the acquisition process.
Pina Capital's investment strategy centers on financing acquisition entrepreneurs who seek to unlock SME succession opportunities across Europe. The firm utilizes a two-phase search fund model, which begins with funding an entrepreneur's search for a profitable company, followed by financing the acquisition itself. This structured approach allows Pina Capital to identify and invest in cash-generative businesses that exhibit resilience and diversified revenues.
The firm prioritizes sectors such as AI, fintech, healthcare, biotech, consumer, creator economy, commerce, logistics, energy, and climate. Pina Capital looks for businesses that not only generate consistent cash flow but also possess recurring revenue models. Their focus on downside protection ensures that investments remain stable and capable of weathering economic fluctuations.
In addition to financial backing, Pina Capital actively collaborates with entrepreneurs to enhance operational efficiencies, drive digital transformation, and implement strategic growth initiatives. This hands-on approach to value creation distinguishes Pina Capital from traditional venture capital firms, as they emphasize long-term partnerships with entrepreneurs committed to sustainable business practices.
Pina Capital's portfolio showcases a range of notable acquisitions and partnerships with search funds focused on profitable SMEs across Europe. Key acquisitions include:
In addition to these acquisitions, Pina Capital supports various acquisition entrepreneurs currently searching for companies. The firm has partnered with notable search funds such as Targos Capital, Emsco Partners, and BrennPoint, focusing on identifying and acquiring profitable SMEs across Europe. These partnerships reflect Pina Capital's dedication to fostering entrepreneurial success and its strategic approach to SME succession.
Antonius von Salis - General Partner. Antonius has over 15 years of experience in private equity and venture capital, having previously worked at Redalpine, Porterhouse Group, Rocket Internet, and Morgan Stanley. He is a prominent figure in Pina Capital's search-fund strategy and has been featured in industry podcasts.
Dr. Thomas Wetzer - General Partner. Dr. Wetzer brings 15 years of private equity experience as an investor and board member. He previously served as Managing Director at Jebsen Capital and was a member of McKinsey's PE Practice. He has contributed expert insights to industry publications.
Karl-Joseph Seilern - Strategic Partner. Karl-Joseph has over 15 years of experience as an investor, operator, and board member. He is a General Partner at Angel Invest and has held the position of Managing Director at Rocket Internet.
Nikolaus Blaschke - Search Fund Expert. Nikolaus is a former searcher and founder of Alpinuum Nachfolge. He has experience as Senior Legal Counsel at Red Bull Ventures and has worked at Revetas Capital and Freshfields, holding an MBA from IESE.
Jürgen von Wendorff - Strategic Advisor. Jürgen provides strategic insights and guidance to Pina Capital, leveraging his extensive experience in the investment landscape.
Philipp Freyschlag - Transaction Advisor. Philipp supports Pina Capital in transaction-related matters, ensuring smooth execution of acquisitions and partnerships.
To pitch Pina Capital, founders should reach out via email at info@pinacap.com or visit their website at pinacap.com. While there is no formal pitch process disclosed, it is advisable to include a comprehensive overview of the business model, revenue streams, and acquisition strategy in the pitch deck.
Founders should also highlight their experience in acquisition entrepreneurship and any relevant operational improvements they plan to implement post-acquisition. Response times may vary, so it is recommended to follow up if there is no initial response within a reasonable timeframe.
In April 2026, Pina Capital participated in the acquisition of the Spanish corrugated packaging group, including Cartondis, Letro, and Trelaco, alongside Targos Capital. This acquisition highlights Pina Capital's active role in the search fund ecosystem and its commitment to supporting entrepreneurs in the SME sector.
Additionally, Pina Capital announced its support for the launch of Castelnau Capital, a UK search fund focused on acquiring profitable SMEs, in early 2026. The firm also expressed support for Emsco Partners, another UK search fund pursuing acquisition opportunities in enduring SMEs.
Recent articles in industry publications, such as Search Funds News and Börsen-Zeitung, have featured Pina Capital, discussing their growing presence in the search fund landscape and their unique approach to financing acquisition entrepreneurs.
What are Pina Capital's investment criteria?
Pina Capital focuses on financing acquisition entrepreneurs seeking profitable, owner-led SMEs. They prioritize cash-generative businesses with diversified revenue streams and recurring revenue models.
How can I pitch to Pina Capital?
Founders can pitch to Pina Capital by sending an email to info@pinacap.com or visiting their website at pinacap.com. There is no formal pitch process disclosed, making it accessible for entrepreneurs.
What makes Pina Capital different from traditional VCs?
Pina Capital specializes in the search fund model, focusing on SME succession rather than typical startup investments. Their approach emphasizes long-term partnerships with entrepreneurs and operational support post-acquisition.
What is the geographic focus of Pina Capital?
The firm primarily invests in Europe, with a strong emphasis on Germany and the United Kingdom. They also consider opportunities in Spain and other European countries.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, Pina Capital focuses on financing acquisition entrepreneurs, which typically involves substantial capital for acquiring profitable SMEs.
How involved is Pina Capital post-investment?
Pina Capital works closely with entrepreneurs to enhance acquired SMEs through operational improvements, digital transformation, and strategic growth initiatives, ensuring long-term success.
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.