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Silicon Gardens is an early-stage venture capital fund based in Ljubljana, Slovenia, founded by experienced entrepreneurs in 2018. The firm focuses on supporting startups primarily in the Adria region and Central & Eastern Europe (CEE). Silicon Gardens aims to leverage the founders' expertise in scaling and selling companies to foster the growth of innovative businesses. The fund has established itself as one of the first VC funds in Slovenia, contributing to the local startup ecosystem.
Currently, Silicon Gardens manages a portfolio of seven companies, with a total AUM that reflects its commitment to early-stage investments. The firm operates from its office in Ljubljana and has a presence in Palo Alto, California, allowing it to connect with startups globally. Notable milestones include investments in companies that harness network effects, particularly in sectors such as B2B SaaS, consumer applications, and direct-to-consumer products.
Silicon Gardens primarily targets early-stage investments at the pre-seed and seed stages, providing initial funding between €300,000 and €1.5 million. The fund's investment strategy emphasizes businesses that leverage network effects, particularly in B2B SaaS, consumer applications, and innovative direct-to-consumer products. While the firm is open to investing in promising startups globally, it maintains a strong focus on the Adria region and CEE, aiming to identify and support high-potential companies in these markets.
Silicon Gardens looks for founders who demonstrate a clear vision and the ability to execute their business plans. The firm prefers to engage with startups that have a scalable business model and a strong market fit. Deal structures typically involve equity investments, and the firm is open to co-investment opportunities with other venture capitalists to maximize support for its portfolio companies.
Silicon Gardens boasts a diverse portfolio of seven companies, showcasing its commitment to various sectors:
These companies reflect Silicon Gardens' focus on innovative solutions across various industries, including technology, consumer products, and food-tech.
Gregor Rebolj: Director and Managing Partner with a background in entrepreneurship and investment. He has led multiple successful ventures in the tech space.
Rok Zorko: General Partner with experience in scaling startups and a strong focus on technology investments.
Izet Ždralović: Partner with expertise in business development and strategic growth.
Vuk Lau: Partner specializing in consumer products and market expansion strategies.
Krešo Gotovac: Partner with a background in finance and investment management.
Nina Leskovec: Partner with experience in technology and startup ecosystems.
Kristian Asani: Principal focused on sourcing and evaluating investment opportunities.
Kaja Domadenik: Back Office Lead managing operational aspects of the firm.
Vid Zavalić: Associate supporting the investment team in due diligence and portfolio management.
To pitch to Silicon Gardens, founders should submit their proposals through the online contact form available at this link or via email at info@silicongardens.com. The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and team background. Founders can expect a response within a few weeks, and warm introductions are preferred but not mandatory.
As of March 2023, Silicon Gardens has been actively investing in a diverse range of startups, including notable companies like Flaviar and Cleanshelf. The firm continues to focus on early-stage investments, particularly in the Adria region and CEE. Recent activities indicate a commitment to supporting innovative businesses that leverage network effects.
While there have been no recent blog posts or updates published, Silicon Gardens remains engaged in direct investment activities, reflecting its focus on building a strong portfolio of early-stage companies.
What are Silicon Gardens' investment criteria?
Silicon Gardens invests in early-stage companies at the pre-seed and seed stages, focusing on businesses that leverage network effects. The firm typically provides funding between €300,000 and €1.5 million.
How can I apply or pitch to Silicon Gardens?
Founders can submit their pitch through the Silicon Gardens website at this link or via email at info@silicongardens.com.
What makes Silicon Gardens different from other VC firms?
Silicon Gardens is distinguished by its focus on the Adria region and CEE, combined with the extensive entrepreneurial experience of its founding team in scaling and selling companies.
What is the geographic scope of Silicon Gardens' investments?
The firm primarily focuses on the Adria region and Central & Eastern Europe but is open to investing in promising startups globally.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Silicon Gardens have?
Silicon Gardens provides strategic guidance, mentorship, and access to a robust network within the Slovenian startup ecosystem and beyond, supporting portfolio companies in their growth journey.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Silicon Gardens typically invests between €300,000 and €1.5 million in early-stage companies.
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