New VC Funds Emerge, DeepTech Focus Grows

The European venture capital scene is witnessing the launch of new investment vehicles, signaling continued investor confidence in early-stage technology ventures. Notably, a fresh fund is entering the deep technology arena, aiming to back innovations in areas like AI infrastructure and robotics.

b:yond VC, founded by Manuel Yoon (formerly of Roland Berger) and Nils Berkemeyer (ex-Continental Ventures), is establishing itself as a dedicated early-stage investor. The firm's strategic focus lies in cutting-edge sectors including AI infrastructure, robotics, automation, and dual-use technologies. Beyond capital infusion, b:yond VC intends to provide its portfolio companies with crucial access to industrial clients and a broader network of investors, a vital component for scaling deep tech innovations.

In parallel, a new player named Calibration has emerged in Berlin, founded by experienced professionals Levin Bunz and Bela Wiertz. Calibration is adopting a distinctive approach by integrating capital with specialized tech recruitment services. The firm aims to address a critical bottleneck for early-stage companies: attracting top-tier engineering talent. Bunz brings over a decade of investment experience from firms like Heartcore Capital and Global Founders Capital, with a track record including early investments in companies such as Canva and FINN. Wiertz is recognized for founding the European tech community {Tech: Europe}. While the fund's size remains undisclosed, this operational support model aligns with a broader trend in venture capital, where investors differentiate themselves through value-added services beyond mere funding.

The deep tech and AI sectors continue to attract significant attention. ElevateOne.ai, a new AI venture, has been launched by Hendrik Witt, the founder of the successful augmented reality startup Ubimax (acquired by TeamViewer for €136.5 million in 2020), and Mike Eissele, former CTO of TeamViewer. Based in Göppingen, Germany, ElevateOne.ai is developing a platform designed to assist small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in optimizing their business operations through a digital business coach and specialized AI agents. This initiative taps into the growing demand for accessible AI solutions for businesses of all sizes.

Meanwhile, the investment firm formerly known as 14leafs has rebranded to 15leafs. This Würzburg-based early-stage investor focuses on life sciences, health, deep tech, and digital technology. The name change is linked to the university's growing number of Nobel laureates. 15leafs is targeting a fund volume of €50 million, underscoring its ambition to support promising startups in these high-growth sectors. The firm's investment thesis is clearly aligned with the increasing global investment in healthtech and advanced technology solutions.

In other news, Rabot Energy has reportedly secured €50 million in funding, although specific details regarding the investors and the round's purpose are pending confirmation. This significant capital injection suggests strong market interest in the energy sector, potentially focusing on renewable energy solutions or energy infrastructure advancements, a critical area given the global push towards sustainability and energy independence.