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RAISE is a European investment group founded in 2013 and headquartered in Paris, France. The organization focuses on merging financial performance with social impact, creating a unique ecosystem that connects large corporations, institutional investors, SMEs, startups, and associations. RAISE's mission is to activate value creation levers across its ecosystem and support stakeholders through tailored assistance and innovative approaches in private equity.
As of now, RAISE manages approximately €2 billion in assets across various investment strategies, including RAISE Ventures, which specifically targets early-stage startups. The firm operates from multiple locations, including Paris, London, and Munich, and has a diverse LP base that includes institutional investors and corporate partners. RAISE has achieved notable milestones, including the launch of the 'Investir pour l’Enfance' fund, which employs private equity strategies to foster innovation and growth in the startup ecosystem.
RAISE invests in small to mid-cap companies across Europe, emphasizing sustainable and responsible finance. The firm’s investment strategies include active minority investments in growing SMEs, venture capital for early-stage startups, and funding for pre-seed and seed-stage startups focused on responsible technology. RAISE Ventures, with an AUM of €80 million, specifically targets technology-driven startups in sectors such as fintech, circular economy, e-commerce, gaming, edtech, and travel.
Investment checks range from $0 to $5 million, allowing RAISE to support a variety of startups at different stages of their growth. The firm seeks innovative companies with strong technological barriers and scalable business models, focusing on sustainability and social impact. RAISE also values diverse teams with high execution capacity and international ambition, ensuring that their investments align with their commitment to responsible finance.
RAISE's portfolio includes 13 companies that reflect its commitment to sustainability and innovation. Notable companies in the portfolio include:
This diverse portfolio showcases RAISE's focus on technology-driven startups that prioritize sustainability and social impact.
Clara Gaymard — Co-founder and Vice-Chair of the Supervisory Board. Clara has extensive experience in investment and corporate governance, having co-founded RAISE in 2013.
Gonzague de Blignières — Co-founder and Chair of the Supervisory Board. Gonzague has a strong background in private equity and philanthropy, contributing to RAISE's mission-driven investment model.
Aglaé Touchard Le Drian — General Director and Co-head of RAISE Impact. Aglaé leads the impact investment strategy, focusing on sustainable practices.
Stéphane Pesqué — Member of the Executive Board and Co-head of RAISE Ventures. Stéphane oversees the venture capital activities, supporting early-stage startups.
Stéphanie Pinot — Member of the Executive Board, Director of Strategy, Development, and Communication. Stéphanie plays a key role in shaping RAISE's strategic direction.
Sophie de Fontenay — General Director, Secretary General, and Head of ESG. Sophie leads RAISE's environmental, social, and governance initiatives.
Mathieu Blanc — General Director and Co-head of RAISE Invest. Mathieu manages the investment strategy for RAISE Invest, focusing on minority investments.
Alexandra Dupont — General Director and Co-head of RAISE Invest. Alexandra collaborates with Mathieu in managing the investment strategy for RAISE Invest.
To pitch RAISE, founders should visit their website at this link. It is advisable to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, competitive landscape, and team qualifications. RAISE does not specify a formal application form, and the pitch process is open with a rolling application cycle.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back regarding their pitch within a reasonable timeframe. Warm introductions are not required but can be beneficial in establishing credibility.
In October 2024, RAISE announced a €15 million raise for Hubcycle, a circular-economy company that valorizes food-industry waste. This investment reflects RAISE's commitment to supporting sustainable practices.
RAISE continues to host over 50 events annually, providing networking opportunities for founders and C-level executives. These events facilitate connections between startups and corporate decision-makers, enhancing business development opportunities.
What are RAISE's investment criteria?
RAISE focuses on technology-driven startups in sectors such as fintech, circular economy, e-commerce, gaming, edtech, and travel. They look for companies with strong technological barriers, scalable business models, and a commitment to sustainability and social impact.
How can I pitch RAISE?
Founders can pitch RAISE through their website at this link. It is recommended to include a clear business model, market analysis, and details on the team in the pitch deck.
What is RAISE's check size?
RAISE typically invests between $0 and $5 million in their portfolio companies, allowing them to support startups at various stages of growth.
What makes RAISE different from other investors?
RAISE combines financial performance with social impact, focusing on sustainable and responsible finance. They provide significant value-add through access to a network of corporate decision-makers and support for ESG strategies.
What is the geographic focus of RAISE?
RAISE primarily invests in startups located in Europe, ensuring that they support local innovation and growth.
What is RAISE's post-investment involvement?
RAISE actively supports its portfolio companies through business development opportunities, access to industry experts, and hosting events for founders and C-level executives.
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