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Waterman Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Utrecht, Netherlands, founded over 30 years ago. The firm specializes in supporting businesses that develop and market innovations aimed at addressing significant global challenges. Waterman Ventures has a strong track record in building teams, finding product-market fit, scaling production, and growing revenues.
Currently, the firm manages a diverse portfolio of 11 companies, with a focus on various sectors including healthcare, biotech, climate, energy, consumer, and SaaS. Waterman Ventures operates globally, investing in companies at various stages, from Friends & Family to Growth Equity. The firm has a notable history of successful exits, including investments in companies like Tesla and PrimePhonic.
Waterman Ventures is located at Hondiuslaan 40, 3528 AB Utrecht, Netherlands. Their extensive experience and commitment to innovation make them a significant player in the venture capital landscape.
Waterman Ventures invests in companies that demonstrate proven technologies or innovations that significantly improve existing solutions. Their investment strategy encompasses a wide range of stages, including Friends & Family, Angel, Accelerator/Incubator, Pre-seed, Seed, Seed+ (Extension), Series A, Series B, Series C, and Growth Equity. This multi-stage flexibility allows them to support companies at various points in their development.
The firm has a global geographic focus, with particular attention to Europe. They are sector-agnostic at a high level but concentrate on healthcare, biotech, climate, energy, consumer, and SaaS sectors. Waterman Ventures seeks to partner with companies that have outstanding teams and technologies that can lead to breakthrough improvements in their respective fields.
Waterman Ventures has a diverse portfolio of 11 companies, showcasing their commitment to innovation across various sectors. Notable current investments include:
Former investments include notable companies such as Ceradis, BCTN, Kropman, Nilar, Paques, PrimePhonic, and Tesla, highlighting their successful track record in the venture capital space.
Peter Rutgers: Managing Director at Waterman Ventures, Peter has extensive experience in venture capital and has led numerous successful investments across various sectors.
Marlies Krukkert - van den Heuvel: CFO, Marlies brings financial expertise and strategic oversight to the firm, ensuring sound financial management and investment decisions.
Willem van Winkoop: Senior Associate, Willem focuses on sourcing and evaluating new investment opportunities, leveraging his background in technology and business development.
To pitch Waterman Ventures, founders should send an email to info@watermanventures.nl. It is recommended to include a detailed pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team background. Founders should expect a response within a few weeks, depending on the volume of inquiries.
Warm introductions are preferred but not mandatory. A clear and concise presentation of the startup's value proposition will enhance the chances of receiving a favorable response.
In January 2026, Waterman Ventures closed a Series B investment in Qualinx, a company specializing in ultra-low-power GNSS solutions. This investment highlights the firm's ongoing commitment to supporting innovative technologies.
Waterman Ventures has also been actively involved in the growth of its portfolio companies, including Yellow Door Energy, which is expanding its distributed solar platform in the Middle East and Africa.
What are Waterman Ventures' investment criteria?
Waterman Ventures looks for companies with proven technologies or innovations that significantly improve existing solutions. They invest across various stages, from Friends & Family to Growth Equity, and focus on sectors like healthcare, biotech, climate, energy, consumer, and SaaS.
How can I pitch to Waterman Ventures?
Founders can reach out via email at info@watermanventures.nl. It is advisable to include a detailed pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team background.
What makes Waterman Ventures different from other investors?
Waterman Ventures has over 30 years of experience in the venture capital space, with a unique multi-stage investment approach that allows them to support companies at various points in their development. Their focus on proven technologies and innovations sets them apart.
What is the geographic scope of Waterman Ventures?
Waterman Ventures has a global investment mandate, with a particular emphasis on Europe. They are open to investing in companies from various regions that align with their investment thesis.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, Waterman Ventures invests across a range of stages, which typically indicates flexibility in their investment amounts depending on the company's needs and stage of development.
What kind of support do portfolio companies receive?
Waterman Ventures provides operational support, mentorship, and resources to help portfolio companies scale effectively. Their extensive experience in building teams and finding product-market fit is a significant asset for founders.
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