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.
Rabo Ventures serves as the investment arm of Rabobank, a leading bank in the Food & Agriculture sector, founded in 2017. The firm is headquartered in the Netherlands and is dedicated to promoting sustainable growth through equity capital investments. Rabo Ventures primarily targets established and transformative companies, as well as top-tier funds, within the Food & Agri and Sustainability sectors.
As of now, Rabo Ventures manages a portfolio of 20-30+ companies and has confirmed two successful exits. The firm operates under the broader umbrella of Rabobank, which provides it with a strong foundation and extensive resources. Rabo Ventures has evolved from its previous identity as the Rabo Food & Agri Innovation Fund, reflecting its commitment to innovative investments in the food and agriculture supply chains.
Rabo Ventures invests across various stages, including pre-seed, seed, and growth equity, with initial ticket sizes ranging from EUR 1-4 million. The firm emphasizes a thematic and partnership approach, focusing on impactful innovations in food and agriculture, including agritech, food tech, alternative proteins, precision agriculture, and supply chain optimization. The investment strategy aligns with Rabobank's 'Banking for Food' initiative, which aims to enhance food availability, access, and nutrition while promoting supply chain stability.
Rabo Ventures seeks scalable business models with a competitive advantage and proven market traction. The firm prefers minority stakes through preferred equity or convertible debt, allowing for flexibility in deal structures. Geographic focus includes Western Europe, Israel, and North America, enabling Rabo Ventures to tap into diverse markets and innovative solutions.
Rabo Ventures has made several notable investments in the food and agriculture sectors, showcasing its commitment to sustainable growth. Key portfolio companies include:
Pieter van der Meché - Head of Rabo Ventures, brings extensive experience in venture capital and a strong background in the food and agriculture sectors.
Shishir Sinha - Executive Director, has a proven track record in managing investments and driving growth in early-stage companies.
Jeroen van der Staay - Executive Director, joined in January 2025, contributing expertise in strategic investments and partnerships.
Katrien Swerts - Executive Director, also joined in 2025, focusing on enhancing portfolio company performance and market reach.
Daniëlla Vellinga - Director, specializes in identifying and supporting innovative startups within the food and agriculture sectors.
Björn Aarts - ESG Director, focuses on integrating environmental, social, and governance factors into investment decisions.
Associates include Denisa Koci, Tobin Wiersum, and Bernadette Lee, who support the investment teams in evaluating opportunities and managing portfolio companies.
To pitch Rabo Ventures, startups should visit their website at rfaif.com. The pitch deck should include a clear business model, market analysis, and details on traction. Rabo Ventures prefers warm introductions but will consider direct submissions through their online platform. Response times may vary, but founders can expect feedback within a few weeks.
In March 2026, Rabo Ventures announced a new investment in TRACT, which raised €18.6 million in Series A funding to expand its supply chain intelligence platform. This investment aligns with Rabo Ventures' focus on enhancing sustainability in the agrifood industry.
Additionally, Rabo Ventures confirmed the acquisition of Shine by Cegid, marking a successful exit for the firm. This exit highlights Rabo Ventures' ability to identify and support high-potential companies in the food and agriculture sectors.
What are Rabo Ventures' investment criteria?
Rabo Ventures focuses on early-stage, growth phase, and mature companies within the food and agriculture sectors. They seek scalable business models with a competitive advantage and proven market traction.
How can startups apply or pitch to Rabo Ventures?
Startups can submit their pitches through the Rabo Ventures website at rfaif.com. It is advisable to include a comprehensive business plan and details on market traction.
What differentiates Rabo Ventures from other investors?
Rabo Ventures leverages Rabobank's extensive network and industry expertise to provide not just capital but also strategic support to portfolio companies, enhancing their growth potential.
What is the geographic scope of Rabo Ventures' investments?
The firm primarily invests in Western Europe, Israel, and North America, allowing it to tap into diverse markets and innovative solutions in food and agriculture.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Rabo Ventures typically invests between EUR 1-4 million in initial equity, with the capacity for follow-on investments as companies grow.
What is Rabo Ventures' involvement post-investment?
Rabo Ventures actively supports its portfolio companies through strategic guidance, leveraging Rabobank's resources and connections to enhance operational capabilities and market reach.
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.