Amsterdam-based NP-Hard Ventures, a venture capital firm led by founders, has launched its second fund, known as Fund II. This €25 million initiative continues its mission to support European entrepreneurs in developing fundamental technology infrastructure. In a fast-evolving global landscape, NP-Hard Ventures is determined to back ambitious projects that are essential for Europe’s future technological autonomy.
NP-Hard Ventures has a history of supporting early-stage companies within Europe’s technology sector. Their first fund amounted to €12 million and successfully invested in 30 companies, including notable names like Roseman Labs and Monumental. Its strategic focus is on challenging problems, akin to the “NP-Hard” concept in computer science where solutions are complex and demanding. Fund II aims to extend this support to a broader range of technological innovations within Europe.
What Does Fund II Offer?
The launch of Fund II signifies NP-Hard Ventures’ commitment to addressing Europe’s technological aspirations. The second fund intends to invest €25 million in pre-seed and seed technology companies, covering areas such as robotics, deep technology, and defense. Its investment model emphasizes agility, with average check sizes nearing €450,000 to support approximately 30 new ventures. This strategy ensures the firm helps founders tackle significant technical challenges.
Why Focus on Europe?
NP-Hard Ventures emphasizes Europe’s capacity to build and own pioneering technologies amidst global competition. As AI and geopolitical dynamics remain pivotal, the firm posits that Europe must secure its technological future. Anke Huiskes, Co-founder and Managing Partner at NP-Hard, expressed the urgency of this mission, stating,
“Europe has the talent and grit – what we need is to channel it. AI and geopolitics have changed the game.”
These investments prioritize the formation of strong foundational tech infrastructure in Europe.
Founded by technical leaders, NP-Hard Ventures operates with a clear philosophy: support ventures confronting the intricate realities of building essential tech. The firm aspires to be a pioneer in funding technologies that address complex, hard-to-solve problems aligning with its name’s origin. Maintaining no requirement for board seats ensures decision-making freedom for companies, reflecting the firm’s commitment to empowering founders.
Exploring NP-Hard Ventures’ core strategy, it’s evident that their investments target domains believed to be crucial for future operations. Robotics, AI, computational infrastructure, and the like are areas highlighted as central to their investment vision. As Anke Huiskes puts it,
“We’re backing the crazy ones who choose ownership. If that’s you, please reach out!”
These words underscore the firm’s focus on adventurous and visionary founders.
As NP-Hard ventures again into the European tech scene, its terms for investment and focus areas seek to ensure the region’s competitive edge. The integration of successful startups from their former investments like Engrate and Isembard, which have provided critical solutions in their fields, showcases the potential impact of such financial support and guidance.
NP-Hard Ventures’ progressive investment strategy offers insights into their approach toward strengthening European entrepreneurship. Fostering technologies that are critical for Europe’s independent development and competitiveness underlines their emphasis on ownership and innovation. Understanding the significant role venture capital plays, NP-Hard Ventures remains committed to advancing these European goals, ensuring technology remains within Europe’s grasp rather than external control.
