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RBF Ventures is a venture capital fund established in 2016 through a collaboration between Russia and Belarus. The fund is managed by the Infrastructure Fund of RVC and the Belarusian Innovation Fund, both of which are state-backed entities. RBF Ventures aims to support technology startups in Belarus and Russia by providing essential capital and resources for growth and scaling.
With a fund size exceeding $20 million, RBF Ventures primarily targets seed and growth-stage companies. The fund has financed over four projects and has set a goal to support ten new projects by 2020. RBF Ventures operates from two main office locations: Moscow, Russia, and Minsk, Belarus, facilitating its investment activities across both countries.
As the first venture capital fund in Belarus, RBF Ventures plays a significant role in the local startup ecosystem. The geopolitical context, particularly post-2022, may influence its operational dynamics and relationships with limited partners.
RBF Ventures specializes in investing in technology startups at the seed and growth equity stages, specifically within Belarus and Russia. The fund's investment strategy encompasses sectors such as adtech, agtech, and edtech. RBF Ventures typically seeks equity stakes ranging from 10% to 40% in the companies it supports, with investment amounts reaching up to 140 million rubles, approximately $1.4 million, depending on the company's stage.
The fund's primary objective is to accelerate the scaling of its portfolio companies, providing not only capital but also strategic guidance and support through its extensive connections within the technology ecosystem in both countries. RBF Ventures is dedicated to fostering the growth of technology startups, ensuring they have the necessary resources to thrive in a competitive market.
RBF Ventures has financed over four projects since its inception, with a notable investment in RocketData, which received seed financing. The fund aims to support ten new projects by 2020, indicating a proactive approach to expanding its portfolio. While specific details about all portfolio companies are not disclosed, the focus remains on technology startups within Belarus and Russia.
The fund's investment strategy emphasizes sectors such as adtech, agtech, and edtech, aligning with its goal to support innovative technology solutions. RBF Ventures' commitment to these sectors reflects its understanding of the regional market needs and opportunities.
To pitch RBF Ventures, founders should send an email to rbfinfo@rvcinfra.ru with a comprehensive pitch deck. The deck should include details about the business model, market analysis, financial projections, and the team. RBF Ventures does not specify a formal application portal, so direct communication via email is preferred.
Response times may vary, but founders should expect to receive feedback within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory.
What are RBF Ventures' investment criteria?
RBF Ventures primarily invests in technology startups at the seed and growth stages, focusing on companies based in Belarus and Russia. The fund seeks equity stakes of 10% to 40% and can invest up to 140 million rubles, approximately $1.4 million, depending on the company's stage.
How can startups apply or pitch to RBF Ventures?
Startups interested in securing investment from RBF Ventures can reach out via email at rbfinfo@rvcinfra.ru. A detailed pitch deck outlining the business model, market opportunity, and financial projections is recommended.
What makes RBF Ventures different from other investors?
RBF Ventures is unique in its focus on technology startups in Belarus and Russia, supported by state-backed funds. This structure allows the firm to provide not only capital but also strategic guidance and access to a network within the local technology ecosystem.
What is the geographic scope of RBF Ventures?
The fund exclusively invests in startups registered in Belarus and Russia, reflecting its commitment to supporting local innovation and technology development.
What is RBF Ventures' post-investment involvement like?
RBF Ventures adds value to its portfolio companies through strategic guidance and support, leveraging its connections within the technology ecosystem in Belarus and Russia. This involvement helps startups navigate challenges and scale effectively.
What are the risks associated with investing in RBF Ventures?
Investing in RBF Ventures carries risks related to the geopolitical context, particularly post-2022 sanctions affecting Russia and Belarus. These factors may impact the fund's operational flexibility and investment activities.
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