Hard2beat

Hard2beat is an early-stage venture capital firm that invests in Polish deep tech startups with a clear technological edge. They focus on software-driven and hardware-enabled solutions addressing real, challenging problems. The firm looks for startups with defensible technology, early validation through proof-of-concept, pilot results, or early customers, and resilient founders who are ambitious, resourceful, and relentless. Hard2beat provides strategic support from day one, acting as a 'tough wingman' to their portfolio companies. They explicitly avoid investing in B2C, marketplaces, or generic SaaS businesses. Hard2beat offers more than just capital, providing hands-on advice on global sales, R&D, fundraising, and legal structuring. They leverage their network of over 250 investors, angels, and industry partners to help portfolio companies raise funds, close deals, and hire key roles. The firm's partners combine firsthand founder experience (scaling businesses to €14M+ ARR, multiple exits) with deep VC expertise (100+ investments). Their investment strategy is centered on identifying companies with a strong tech moat in areas ripe for disruption. Hard2beat highlights deep tech areas such as the photonic chip market and robotics as areas of interest. The firm aims to make early investments and support companies to scale. They provide resources for founders, including a Termsheet template, and insights on building a data room. Hard2beat emphasizes a hands-on approach with founders, offering strategic support beyond financial investment. Their focus on deep tech and the Polish market, coupled with the experience of the founding team and a strong network of co-investors, sets them apart in the VC landscape. They actively participate in the Polish VC ecosystem, as demonstrated by interviews with Maciej Frankowicz.

Deep Tech, Software-driven solutions, Hardware-enabled solutions

Core thematic spaces, technologies, and target market segments of interest.