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Sisu Game Ventures is an early-stage venture capital fund based in Helsinki, Finland, dedicated exclusively to the gaming industry. Founded in 2014, the firm has rapidly evolved from a micro-fund to a significant player in the venture capital landscape, currently managing a $50 million fund. Sisu has made over 127 investments, demonstrating its active role in supporting game developers globally.
The firm emphasizes collaboration and community among its portfolio companies, reflecting the open nature of the Nordic gaming industry. Sisu's team, with over 30 years of combined experience in game development and investment, has built 16 game companies and invested in more than 60 startups. This extensive background allows Sisu to provide valuable insights and support to its founders.
Located at Yrjönkatu 11, 00100 Helsinki, Finland, Sisu Game Ventures is well-positioned to tap into the rich talent pool of the Nordic gaming ecosystem, which includes notable companies like Supercell and Rovio.
Sisu Game Ventures focuses on very early-stage investments in the gaming sector, often being the first money in for pre-revenue and pre-product companies. The firm prioritizes the teams behind the games rather than individual intellectual properties or metrics, allowing it to nurture innovative ideas and support founders in building successful gaming ventures. This approach is particularly effective in the gaming industry, where the potential for outsized winners exists alongside a high failure rate.
The fund's investment strategy is rooted in collaboration, reflecting the open nature of the Nordic gaming ecosystem. Sisu seeks to create a supportive community among its portfolio companies, fostering shared learning and growth. The firm operates globally, with a strong emphasis on the Nordic region, and aims to identify and back promising founders who demonstrate passion and vision for their projects.
Sisu Game Ventures has invested in over 127 gaming startups, showcasing a diverse portfolio that includes both notable exits and current projects. Key portfolio companies include:
Samuli Syvähuoko: Founding Partner with extensive experience in game development and investment. He has played a pivotal role in building successful game companies.
Paul Bragiel: Founding Partner known for his expertise in the gaming sector and his contributions to various successful startups.
Erik Gloersen: General Partner with a strong background in investment and game development, contributing to Sisu's strategic direction.
Kalle Kaivola: Venture Partner who brings valuable insights from his experience in the gaming industry.
Moaffak Ahmed: Venture Partner & Co-founder with a focus on supporting early-stage gaming companies.
Kadri Härma: Venture Partner with expertise in game development and investment strategies.
Jere Partanen: Principal who plays a key role in sourcing and evaluating potential investments.
To pitch Sisu Game Ventures, founders should visit the firm's website and utilize the contact methods provided. It is advisable to include a well-structured pitch deck that outlines the game concept, the founding team's background, and market insights. Sisu encourages pitches through direct contact but does not guarantee responses, so founders should be prepared for varying response times.
In 2021, Sisu Game Ventures announced the launch of its $50 million fund, marking a significant milestone in its growth from an initial fund of $1.1 million raised in 2015. This expansion reflects strong confidence from limited partners in the firm's investment strategy and expertise.
As of March 2026, Sisu Game Ventures made its latest investment in Sans Strings, a seed-stage gaming company, continuing its trend of supporting early-stage ventures in the gaming industry.
What are Sisu Game Ventures' investment criteria?
Sisu Game Ventures primarily invests in very early-stage gaming companies, often providing the first round of funding. The firm focuses on pre-revenue and pre-product companies, emphasizing the importance of the founding team over individual metrics or intellectual properties.
How can I pitch to Sisu Game Ventures?
Founders can pitch their ideas through the contact methods provided on the Sisu Game Ventures website. It is recommended to include a clear vision of the game concept, the team’s background, and any relevant market insights in the pitch.
What makes Sisu Game Ventures different from other VCs?
Sisu Game Ventures distinguishes itself by focusing exclusively on the gaming industry and prioritizing collaboration among its portfolio companies. The firm leverages its extensive experience in game development to provide operational support and foster a community that encourages shared learning.
What is the geographic scope of Sisu Game Ventures?
While Sisu Game Ventures has strong roots in the Nordic region, it operates globally, seeking promising gaming startups from around the world.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, Sisu Game Ventures typically invests small amounts as the first money in, reflecting its strategy of supporting very early-stage companies.
What kind of post-investment involvement can founders expect?
Sisu Game Ventures provides operational support, mentorship, and access to a strong network within the gaming industry, helping portfolio companies navigate challenges and grow effectively.
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