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SKV Invest GmbH is a venture capital firm based in Stuttgart, Germany, founded in December 2020 as a spin-out from Lab1886, the corporate innovation hub of Mercedes-Benz. The firm was established with a vision to pioneer economic transformation through innovative action and sustainability. SKV Invest aims to create a world where current and future generations can thrive in a healthy and equitable environment.
Currently, SKV Invest manages a team of approximately 11 professionals, including 10 partners and 1 venture partner, focusing on impact investing and venture building. The firm has a notable portfolio of around 5 companies, emphasizing sectors such as energy, green technology, and AI-driven digital solutions. Their approach combines capital investment with hands-on support, enabling startups to grow from ideation to market entry and beyond.
SKV Invest's commitment to sustainability and innovation is reflected in its operational model, which includes services such as investor outreach, venture fundraising, international expansion, and digital product development. The firm is positioned as a key player in the European venture capital landscape, particularly in Germany.
SKV Invest GmbH specializes in impact investing and venture building, focusing on sectors such as sustainability, green technology, and AI-driven digital solutions. The firm invests at various stages, including pre-seed, seed, and growth equity, providing a comprehensive suite of services to support startups. Their investment strategy emphasizes co-founding ventures rather than merely providing capital, which allows them to engage deeply with founders and their businesses.
The firm seeks to partner with startups that align with their mission of economic transformation through sustainability. SKV Invest looks for innovative solutions that address pressing environmental challenges and promote a healthier future. Their geographic focus is primarily on Europe, with a strong emphasis on Germany.
In terms of deal structure, SKV Invest is open to various arrangements that facilitate growth and scalability for their portfolio companies. They provide support in areas such as venture fundraising, international expansion, and digital product development, ensuring that their investments are not only financially sound but also impactful.
SKV Invest GmbH has a diverse portfolio that includes notable companies in the sustainability and technology sectors. The following are key portfolio companies:
These companies reflect SKV Invest's commitment to supporting innovative solutions that contribute to a sustainable future. The firm actively engages with its portfolio companies, providing hands-on support and strategic guidance to enhance their growth potential.
Susanne Hahn: Founding and Managing Partner. Susanne previously ran Lab1886 at Mercedes-Benz, where she gained extensive experience in corporate innovation and venture building.
Kai J. Siebert: Founding & Managing Partner. Kai has a background at Daimler, serving as Director of Corporate Controlling and CFO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. He managed the budget for Lab1886 and brings financial expertise to the firm.
Dr. Volker Gesmann: Co-Founder and Managing Partner. Dr. Gesmann has a strong background in technology and innovation, contributing to SKV Invest's focus on impactful ventures.
To pitch SKV Invest, founders should use the contact email info@skvinvest.de or submit their proposals through the website at https://www.skvinvest.de. A well-structured pitch deck is essential, including details about the business model, market analysis, and alignment with sustainability goals. Founders can expect a response within a reasonable timeframe, although specific timelines may vary based on the volume of inquiries.
Warm introductions are preferred, as they can enhance the chances of securing a meeting with the investment team. Founders should ensure that their pitch clearly communicates the innovative aspects of their venture and its potential impact on sustainability.
In April 2023, SKV Invest announced a new investment in GLOBE Fuel Cell Systems GmbH, a company specializing in emission-free fuel-cell systems. This investment aligns with their focus on sustainability and innovative technology.
In March 2023, SKV Invest participated in a funding round for Zefyron, further expanding their portfolio in the AI-driven digital solutions sector. This investment underscores their commitment to supporting startups that drive economic transformation.
Additionally, SKV Invest has been actively engaging with the startup community through various events and initiatives aimed at promoting sustainability and innovation in Europe.
What are SKV Invest's investment criteria?
SKV Invest focuses on impact investing in sectors such as sustainability, green technology, and AI-driven digital solutions. They invest at pre-seed, seed, and growth equity stages, seeking innovative startups that align with their mission of economic transformation.
How can I pitch to SKV Invest?
Founders can reach out to SKV Invest via their website or email at info@skvinvest.de. A detailed pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and alignment with sustainability goals is recommended.
What makes SKV Invest different from other venture capital firms?
SKV Invest emphasizes hands-on venture building, co-founding ventures with founders rather than acting solely as a capital provider. This approach allows them to provide strategic guidance and operational support throughout the startup's growth journey.
What is the geographic focus of SKV Invest?
The firm primarily focuses on investments within Europe, with a strong emphasis on Germany. They are particularly interested in startups that address local and regional sustainability challenges.
What kind of support does SKV Invest provide to its portfolio companies?
SKV Invest offers comprehensive support, including investor outreach, venture fundraising, international expansion, and digital product development. Their hands-on approach ensures that portfolio companies receive the necessary resources to succeed.
What is the typical check size for investments made by SKV Invest?
While specific check sizes are not publicly disclosed, SKV Invest invests at various stages, including pre-seed, seed, and growth equity, indicating a flexible approach to funding based on the needs of the startup.
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