Metaplanet

Metaplanet is an evergreen investment firm dedicated to backing founders who are developing deep technologies aimed at ensuring humanity's long-term survival. The firm distinguishes itself by investing in "missionaries" over "mercenaries," focusing on ventures that promise a lasting positive impact on a societal and civilizational scale. Their investment scope spans critical areas such as Artificial Intelligence & Robotics, Life Sciences, Enterprise solutions, Consumer technology, and Crypto, with a particular emphasis on projects that mitigate existential risks from advanced technologies. Beyond traditional venture capital, Metaplanet also provides grants to support projects that align with its mission but may not fit a conventional growth company model.

The firm was launched in 2011 by Jaan Tallinn, a renowned Estonian computer programmer and co-founder of Skype and Kazaa. Tallinn, originally trained as a physicist, established Metaplanet with a vision to address significant long-term threats to humanity, including those posed by advanced AI and synthetic biology. His philanthropic activities and involvement with organizations like the Future of Life Institute and the Centre for the Study of Existential Risk underscore Metaplanet's core philosophy of investing in technologies that safeguard our collective future.

Metaplanet's portfolio highlights include investments in companies like Anthropic, which focuses on AI research and safety; ŌURA, known for its health-tracking technology; Protocol Labs, an innovation network for computing breakthroughs; and Zama, which develops open-source cryptographic tools for privacy. Other notable investments include Vortexa, Leash Bio, Conception Bio, PostEra, and Fauna Bio, all contributing to the firm's diverse deep-tech ecosystem.

The Metaplanet team brings a wealth of experience to its mission. Jaan Tallinn, as the founder, provides strategic direction rooted in his extensive background in technology and existential risk research. Rauno Miljand, the Managing Partner, leverages his entrepreneurial and operational expertise to guide seed-to-Series A investments, assisting founders with fundraising, business strategy, corporate governance, pricing, and product roadmaps. Sven Böttcher, the General Counsel, offers crucial legal support, drawing on his experience in venture capital, M&A, debt financing, fintech, and data protection, ensuring smooth deal progression from term sheet to exit.