The Nordic startup scene continues to attract attention with Helsinki-based Maki.vc launching its third fund, valued at €100 million. This new fund will focus on driving innovation in pre-seed and seed-stage startups throughout the Nordic region and Northern Europe. The fund highlights the region’s rich potential, drawing from the combined expertise of over 50 limited partners with notable success stories in global tech markets. This significant endeavor aims to bolster early-stage businesses with support covering various critical areas, including recruitment, branding, and financial strategy.
Venture capital activity in the Nordic region has previously shown a trend of growth, spurred by a supportive public investment landscape and a strong focus on technology-driven startups. Maki.vc’s approach mirrors this by leveraging deep tech expertise to identify and nurture startups capable of making significant environmental and social contributions. This aligns with the broader movement within the region to embed sustainability in tech innovations, as seen with Maki.vc’s previous funds supporting companies like Spinnova and IQM.
What is the focus of the new fund?
Maki.vc’s newly launched fund places emphasis on startups aiming for environmental and social impact, consistent with its Article 8 designation. Targeting pre-seed and seed-stage companies, the fund seeks to enhance the potential for meaningful global contributions through technological advancements. According to Pauliina Martikainen, a Partner at Maki.vc, the Nordic ecosystem’s unique blend of research and development, industry collaboration, and entrepreneurial success positions it as an ideal environment for fostering impactful tech ventures.
Who benefits from Maki.vc’s fund?
The fund has already started investments with companies like Distance Technologies, QMill, and Ever Cars, illustrating its commitment to innovation. Initial investments range from €300,000 to €3 million, with selective follow-on funding options. Previous funds have supported companies that achieved public offerings or successful exits, such as Spinnova, Ultimate, and Revela, highlighting the potential of nurturing early-stage companies through strategic funding and mentorship.
Established in 2018, Maki.vc has a clear focus on early-stage investments in deep tech and brand-driven startups. Led by a team of experienced partners, the firm targets businesses with scientific innovations, robust intellectual property, and strong customer insights. This strategy aligns with their goal to support and scale companies within their portfolio effectively, dedicating about two-thirds of their fund for follow-on investments.
Maki.vc’s initiative reflects a broader trend in the venture capital community of prioritizing investments with sustainable and impactful objectives. As the venture capital landscape evolves, funds like Maki.vc’s play an integral role in shaping the future of tech startups by providing not only financial backing but also strategic guidance. By fostering an ecosystem that supports innovation with a purpose, they help startups navigate the complex growth journey while aligning with global sustainability goals.
