Key Takeaways
- Sector: Cleantech & Climatech, Technology Software & Gaming.
- Geography: Netherlands.
Analysis
FORWARD.one has announced the launch of its third fund, Fund III, with a target of €200 million and a hard cap of €250 million. The majority of this target has already been secured from both returning and new investors, reflecting a strong vote of confidence in the firm’s commercially driven investment approach. A proven track record of top-tier performance and a sharp focus on transforming bold technology into market-leading companies have continued to draw investors to the firm.
Fund III aims to invest in between 25 to 30 early-stage industrial tech companies across the Benelux, DACH, Nordics, and other European innovation hubs, with initial investments ranging from €1-3 million. Significant reserves have also been allocated for follow-on rounds. This new fund bolsters FORWARD.one's capacity to back Europe's most ambitious founders, as indicated by the strong early support received.
FORWARD.one has always been committed to delivering exceptional results. This commitment is reflected in the performance of its earlier funds. Fund I, launched in 2018, achieved a net IRR of 41% and a DPI of 2x, ranking it among Europe's best-performing VC funds. It boasts successful exits such as Sensorfact (acquired by ABB) and Mayht (acquired by Sonos), with 5 active portfolio companies still remaining. Fund II, a €145 million fund launched in 2021, focuses on semiconductors, climate innovation, robotics, and hardware, and is projected to match the results of Fund I.
The firm's strategy is clear: invest early, scale fast, and drive exits through a strong network and hands-on support. With the launch of Fund III, the firm continues to help founders bring groundbreaking technologies to the market that shape everyday life, while also delivering stellar returns for investors.
FORWARD.one, established in 2017, has always aimed to be Europe's most commercially oriented, exceptional VC firm. The team combines entrepreneurial drive, technical knowledge, and financial expertise, and its funds consistently rank among the top 5% of European VC funds. The firm is known for making non-conformist bets that result in the biggest wins, and by aiding founders in the rapid and effective commercialization of technology, it builds companies that not only provide outstanding returns but also make an impact in everyday life.
With Fund III, FORWARD.one is poised to extend its support to Europe's most audacious innovators, backing the next generation of champions in industrial technology, and leveraging Europe's unique strengths in complex, tangible technologies to build world-leading ecosystems.