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Rockstart is a venture capital firm and accelerator founded in 2011, headquartered in Amsterdam, Netherlands. The firm has expanded its presence with offices in Copenhagen, Denmark, and Bogotá, Colombia. Over the past 13 years, Rockstart has invested in 368 companies, achieving an impressive alumni value exceeding €1.7 billion. The firm operates three domain-focused funds: Energy, AgriFood, and Emerging Tech, with total fund sizes of €21-27 million for Energy and €50 million for AgriFood Fund II.
Rockstart's investment strategy emphasizes early-stage funding, ranging from pre-seed to Series B, with check sizes between $110,000 and $2 million. The firm co-invests alongside notable partners such as Balderton, EQT, Accel, and SET Ventures, and has reported over 20x returns on its early investments. The organization is committed to empowering founders who are driving positive change through sustainable practices.
Rockstart's investment focus is on three primary domains: AgriFood, Energy, and Emerging Technologies. The firm seeks to support purpose-driven founders by providing funding and mentorship. Investments are made at various stages, from pre-seed to Series B, with follow-on funding available up to €2 million per company. Rockstart emphasizes an impact-driven approach, co-investing with lead investors to enhance the potential for success.
The firm looks for startups that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and innovation within their respective sectors. Rockstart values founders who are not only focused on financial returns but also on creating a positive impact on society and the environment. This dual focus on purpose and profit is a cornerstone of Rockstart's investment thesis.
Rockstart has built a diverse portfolio of 368 companies over its 13 years of operation. Notable recent investments include:
Other significant portfolio companies include:
Rockstart's portfolio reflects its commitment to sectors such as AI, climate, digital health, food agtech, industrial, and IoT, showcasing a broad range of innovative startups.
Rune Theill - CEO & Co-founder. Rune has extensive experience in the startup ecosystem and has been instrumental in shaping Rockstart's vision and strategy.
Martin Dahl Carstensen - Finance Director. Martin oversees the financial operations of Rockstart, ensuring the firm's investments align with its strategic goals.
Mark Durno - Managing Partner, AgriFood. Mark leads the AgriFood domain fund, focusing on investments that drive innovation in the food and agriculture sectors.
Max ter Horst - Managing Partner, Energy. Max is responsible for the Energy domain fund, leveraging his expertise to support startups in the clean tech and energy sectors.
Startups interested in pitching to Rockstart should submit their applications through the official website. The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and impact strategy. Rockstart typically responds to applications within a few weeks, and warm introductions are preferred but not mandatory.
Rockstart runs several programs aimed at supporting startups, including:
These programs are tailored to enhance the capabilities of startups and investors alike, fostering a community focused on sustainable innovation.
On July 1, 2025, Rockstart made a notable investment in RTDT, providing a $4 million seed round. This investment reflects Rockstart's ongoing commitment to supporting early-stage startups in critical sectors.
Q?
What are Rockstart's investment criteria?
Rockstart invests in early-stage startups across AgriFood, Energy, and Emerging Technologies, focusing on purpose-driven founders and sustainable practices.
Q?
How can startups apply or pitch to Rockstart?
Startups can apply through Rockstart's website, where they can find detailed information about the application process and requirements.
Q?
What makes Rockstart different from other investors?
Rockstart combines venture capital with accelerator programs, providing mentorship and access to a network of international experts in addition to funding.
Q?
What is the geographic scope of Rockstart's investments?
Rockstart primarily invests in startups located in Europe, with a particular focus on the Netherlands.
Q?
What is the typical check size for investments?
Rockstart typically invests between $110,000 and $2 million in early-stage startups.
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