VC Directory

GROWTH CLIMATE VCs in Germany Directory

Curated index of active venture capital funds investing in Europe and Israel. Track partners, stages, and check sizes.

BASF

Ludwigshafen, DE

BASF, as a corporate venture entity, focuses on creating change through breakthrough technologies and bold ideas, enabling sustainable solutions for the climate, partners, and future generations. Their strategy, "Winning Ways," aims to position BASF as the preferred chemical company enabling customers' green transformation. They prioritize economic success, environmental protection, and social responsibility, aligning their core businesses across Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, and Nutrition & Care segments. Standalone businesses are bundled within Surface Technologies and Agricultural Solutions. BASF's approach involves strategic portfolio management, demonstrated by the recent divestiture of its hydrosulfite-related assets to Silox, signaling a strategic shift and streamlining efforts. This allows them to focus on core areas, maintain market leadership in other inorganic chemicals, and optimize resource allocation. The investment in expanding dispersion production in Durban, South Africa, highlights their commitment to growth in emerging markets and supporting customer needs in architectural coatings, construction, and paper industries. They emphasize reliable supply chains and responsiveness to local market demands. Central to their strategy is driving sustainable solutions, showcased by their ambition to enable customers' green transformation. This involves developing innovative products and technologies that minimize environmental impact and promote resource efficiency. By aligning with global trends towards sustainability and circular economy models, BASF seeks to create long-term value for stakeholders and contribute to a more sustainable future. They invest in research and development to create chemistry for a sustainable future. They actively seek to accomplish great things together, aiming to inspire and drive change by fostering a culture that attracts and retains top talent. BASF offers various career opportunities for individuals looking to contribute to their mission. Their comprehensive approach involves strategic investments, streamlined operations, and a steadfast commitment to sustainability, all contributing to their ambition of being the preferred chemical company.

Multi-StageChemicalsMaterials

European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF VC)

DE

ECBF is a venture capital impact fund exclusively dedicated to the (circular-) bioeconomy, aiming to catalyze the transition towards a sustainable future. The fund invests in growth-stage companies that contribute to the shift from a fossil-based to a circular bio-based economy, aligning with the European Green Deal goals to achieve climate neutrality by 2050. They focus on building pan-European market leaders by supporting passionate and visionary entrepreneurs with high potential for innovation, favorable returns, and sustainable impact. ECBF's investment strategy involves providing flexible financing tools, ranging from equity to mezzanine, in syndicates with private and public investors. The fund's team brings over 100 years of VC and industry experience, possessing international networks of investors, companies, industry experts, and regional organizations within the bioeconomy. With a diverse team spanning 14 nationalities, ECBF combines economic and scientific expertise, long-standing experience in various fields, and an entrepreneurial spirit. The fund believes that impact and return go hand-in-hand, emphasizing that a corporate strategy aligned with ESG criteria is crucial for companies seeking a competitive advantage. They support founders whose technologies are revolutionizing industries, improving lives, and benefiting the environment. ECBF dives deep into specific areas of the bioeconomy, such as precision fermentation, biodegradable bioplastics, mycelium-based products, and autonomous farming technologies, seeking companies driving innovation in these spaces. Ultimately, ECBF aims to mobilize private capital for bioeconomy start-ups, fostering growth and sustainability within the sector. They actively monitor and report on the impact of their investments, showcasing their commitment to creating a positive environmental and social impact alongside financial returns.

Growth-stageCircular BioeconomyIndustrial Biotechnology

GSAM

Frankfurt, DE

Goldman Sachs Asset Management (GSAM) focuses on delivering superior client outcomes through active ETFs and a range of public and private market investment solutions. Their approach combines deep expertise with a commitment to understanding and addressing client needs. The firm emphasizes integrated offerings across equities, fixed income, and multi-asset solutions, aiming to help investors achieve their financial goals by navigating market challenges effectively. GSAM aims to provide alternative investment opportunities, including private market access, to diversify portfolios and enhance returns, with a particular focus on adapting to evolving market conditions and integrating sustainability considerations into investment strategies. The firm's investment strategy involves a blend of active management, strategic asset allocation, and risk management. GSAM seeks to identify and capitalize on market inefficiencies, leverage its global research capabilities, and provide tailored investment solutions to meet specific client objectives. A core theme is the integration of alternative investments into traditional portfolios to generate alpha and manage risk in a changing investment landscape. GSAM leverages its scale and expertise to offer innovative investment products, including actively managed ETFs and alternative investment options, to retail investors and institutional clients. GSAM's approach also includes a focus on impact investing, particularly in areas related to climate transition and inclusive growth. They are committed to integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into their investment processes, aiming to generate both financial returns and positive social and environmental impact. The firm offers insights and market perspectives through publications and newsletters, keeping clients informed about economic trends and investment strategies. GSAM positions itself as a partner that prioritizes client needs and offers a comprehensive suite of investment capabilities. They leverage a global network of investment professionals and a deep understanding of various asset classes to deliver tailored solutions that meet the diverse needs of investors. The emphasis on active management, innovative product development, and a client-centric approach are central to GSAM's investment philosophy.

Not explicitly mentioned, but seems to span various stages given the public and private investment optionsEquitiesFixed Income

Hannover Beteiligungsfonds

Hannover, DE

Based on the crawled content, Hannoverimpuls appears to be an economic development agency for the Hannover region in Germany, rather than a traditional venture capital fund. Their primary focus is on promoting entrepreneurship, supporting startups, and attracting skilled workers to the region. They achieve this through various programs, initiatives, and events, such as "Gründung Kompakt" which assists unemployed individuals in starting their own businesses, and "leanlab" which helps transform ideas into business models. They also highlight successful local companies and initiatives, such as INLEAP Photonics (drone defense), MOST (mobile stress tests for athletes), and QVLS-iLabs (quantum technology cluster). Therefore, Hannoverimpuls' "investment thesis" isn't a direct monetary investment but rather an investment in the ecosystem by providing resources, connections, and visibility to foster innovation and economic growth within the Hannover region. Their strategy involves collaboration with local universities, businesses, and government agencies to create a supportive environment for startups and established companies alike. Their economic development activities are not purely for profit, but serve to improve the prosperity of the Hannover region. Since Hannoverimpuls is an economic development agency, it is likely that any financial "investments" they make are small and likely seed or pre-seed stage or are grants or non-dilutive funding. Hannoverimpuls actively promotes the Hannover region as an attractive location for businesses and skilled workers. This involves highlighting the region's strengths in various industries, such as technology and manufacturing, and showcasing successful companies that have established themselves in Hannover. Additionally, they organize events and workshops to connect entrepreneurs with potential investors, mentors, and partners. Overall, Hannoverimpuls plays a critical role in supporting the economic development of the Hannover region by fostering innovation, promoting entrepreneurship, and attracting skilled workers. Their multifaceted approach, which combines direct support for startups with broader initiatives to enhance the region's business climate, makes them a valuable asset for the local economy. Their mission is to support and grow business within the Hannover region.

Pre-seed, Seed (likely through supporting programs, not direct investments)DeepTechPhotonics

KfW Germany

Frankfurt, DE

KfW, as a promotional bank, focuses on strengthening the German economy and innovation landscape through various funding and financing instruments. Their strategy involves offering a wide range of support, including guarantees, equity, securitization, promotional loans, and grants, tailored to the needs of stakeholders to stimulate economic growth. A key initiative is the Deutschlandfonds, which aims to facilitate large-scale investments in Germany by private and municipal companies, leveraging public funds and guarantees to mobilize substantial investments. KfW Capital, a subsidiary, invests in German and European Venture Capital and Venture Debt funds, providing technology-oriented growth companies with better access to capital. KfW supports the competitiveness and future viability of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through promotional loans and grants, recognizing the importance of an innovative and digital Mittelstand for a strong German economy. They are actively involved in addressing key challenges such as innovation stagnation among SMEs by providing support and advocating for policies that encourage innovation, particularly among smaller businesses without dedicated R&D departments. KfW also plays a role in promoting sustainable development, including energy-efficient renovations and climate-friendly new construction. KfW's approach includes both direct funding and indirect support via VC fund investments to stimulate various sectors. They aim to facilitate investments in key areas like innovation, digitization, and sustainable infrastructure. The Deutschlandfonds specifically aims to unlock investments exceeding 130 billion EUR. By coordinating the Deutschlandfonds, KfW acts as the primary contact point for national and international investor consulting. Overall, KfW's investment thesis is centered on strategically deploying financial instruments to support economic development and innovation in Germany, with a focus on SMEs, infrastructure, and technological advancements. They prioritize initiatives that promote competitiveness, sustainability, and resilience, all within the context of Germany's economic and policy landscape.

Early-stage, Growth-stageInnovationDigitalization

L-Bank

Karlsruhe, DE

The L-Bank is a state-owned development bank for Baden-Württemberg, focusing on fostering economic growth, sustainable infrastructure, housing, and social initiatives through tailored financing programs and incentives. It supports startups, businesses, municipalities, and individuals with specialized funding solutions, including climate-friendly projects and digitalization.

Early Stage, Growth StageStart-upsCompanies

MPC

Hamburg, DE
M

MPC Capital AG is a globally active investment manager and service provider focused on infrastructure projects, particularly in the maritime and energy sectors. They initiate and manage investment solutions for institutional investors, offering a comprehensive range of services, especially within the maritime industry. The firm emphasizes sustainability and innovation, aiming to contribute to global climate targets. Their investment strategy involves offering access to high-growth opportunities in dynamic markets, delivered through investment management and operational services, ensuring high-quality support for clients in their target sectors. MPC Capital has a long track record of real asset investments, exceeding EUR 20 billion across various asset classes and currently manages EUR 5.3 billion in AuM. They aim to be a leading partner for investors, seizing market opportunities and megatrends to deliver outstanding returns, while also optimizing for sustainability.

Not explicitly mentioned, but focuses on infrastructure projects which typically require significant capital, suggesting later stages like growth equity.Maritime InfrastructureEnergy Infrastructure

Saxovent

Berlin, DE

Saxovent invests in innovative, climate-friendly projects with measurable sustainability impact. Specializing in renewable energy (wind and solar), sustainable real estate, and climate-smart agriculture, Saxovent partners globally to maximize CO₂ avoidance and drive the energy transition. The firm emphasizes long-term, owner-managed projects with a focus on scalability and measurable environmental outcomes.

Not explicitly mentioned, but implies growth stages based on historical project development and financingClimate-positive projectsrenewable energy infrastructure

Statkraft Ventures

Düsseldorf, DE
S

Statkraft Ventures invests in outstanding entrepreneurs driving the green energy transition by building outstanding companies. Leveraging Statkraft’s expertise in renewable energy and venture capital experience, the firm supports scalable startups in Europe and North America, emphasizing independence and rapid growth.

Seed, Early, and GrowthEarly-stage and growth-stage startups in energy and climate technologywith a focus on software and hardware solutions.

Vito Ventures

Hof, DE

Vito Ventures, part of the Viessmann Generations Group, focuses on making majority investments in regional market leaders with a strong local presence and diversified offerings. Their investment strategy centers around businesses built for long-term growth, particularly those that are key enablers of the green energy transition. They aim to build a more livable, sustainable planet through efficient, low-carbon systems. The firm's primary investment platforms include Grid Infrastructure, District Heating & Cooling (Pipes, Stations & Controls), and Clean & Cold solutions in both the US and EU. They partner with companies that share their values and provide operational expertise to unlock their full potential. Their investments are aligned with global sustainability goals, including greenhouse gas reduction, air quality improvement, and overall environmental health. Vito Ventures identifies and supports companies that directly contribute to a low-carbon future. For example, Gritec, a portfolio company, is pivotal in enabling decentralized renewable grids and delivering climate-resilient infrastructure. Similarly, Isoplus Group is revolutionizing heat distribution with high-performance pre-insulated piping systems, connecting renewable energy sources to district heating networks. aqotec implements regenerative heating solutions in multiple countries. The "Viessmann Way" serves as their guiding principle, emphasizing responsibility, innovation, and purposeful growth. Their approach is characterized by conviction, care, and a long-term perspective, reflecting a commitment to future generations. Vito Ventures aims to create scalable energy transition solutions and enhance system-wide resilience by leveraging specialized solutions within their ecosystem.

Majority InvestmentsGrid InfrastructureDistrict Heating & Cooling - Pipes

Matterwave Ventures

Munich, DE

Matterwave Ventures is a European VC firm focused on backing hardware and software companies in the Industrial Technologies space. They aim to empower early-stage companies to reshape industrial value chains and become global leaders. The firm's core belief centers around funding companies that contribute to a sustainable, sovereign, and digitalized European industry. Their investment strategy revolves around three key areas: Industrial Tech, Deep Tech, and Climate Tech. In Industrial Tech, they support the digital transformation of industry to create upskilled local workforces, globally competitive, high-value exports, and superior industrial products. For Deep Tech, they back global champions in frontier technologies, building resilient supply chains and sovereign dual-use capabilities for long-term industrial autonomy. In Climate Tech, they invest in technologies driving smart industrial decarbonization, enabling global winners in novel climate solutions, and delivering proven climate impact at scale. They are particularly interested in companies that address the challenges and opportunities within the European industrial landscape. This includes fostering technological independence, promoting sustainable practices, and driving the adoption of digital solutions across various industrial sectors. They aim to create a future where European industries are competitive on a global scale, while also remaining environmentally conscious and socially responsible. Matterwave Ventures seeks companies demonstrating groundbreaking innovations that can have a significant impact on the European industrial ecosystem. They are dedicated to supporting the growth and development of these businesses, with a focus on enabling them to become market leaders and contribute to the overall advancement of European industry.

Seed, Series AIndustrial TechDeep Tech

XPRESS Ventures

Berlin, DE

XPRESS Ventures invests in founders transforming the industrialized world, focusing on startups at the beginning of their journey. They believe that success in the industrial world depends on industry expertise, infrastructure access, and clients, and they aim to help startups bridge to these critical assets. They empower founders with capital and expertise early, providing advice rather than control, and leverage their network to supercharge startup growth. This includes helping startups navigate corporate collaboration challenges, connecting them with key industry players, and engaging their network of investors to foster advancements that build on industrial knowledge.

Pre-Seed, SeedReal estateinfrastructure

Maxrich Ventures GmbH

Düsseldorf, DE

Maxrich Ventures GmbH is an impact investor focused on technology-driven companies that save lives. They aim to be a 'booster' for their portfolio companies, providing not only financial support but also access to their extensive network, knowledge, and years of experience. The firm emphasizes an open and transparent communication forum through the MAXRICH INVESTORS CLUB, where investors receive weekly updates on the progress of their portfolio companies. This close relationship allows investors to actively contribute beyond capital, leveraging their expertise to guide and support the startups. Founded after Max and Rich met in 2005, the firm has helped over 150 companies get established. The founders have experience in building businesses and securing seven-figure financing rounds for tech startups. This experience translates into guidance for their portfolio companies, helping them navigate the challenges of scaling and growth. They invest in companies with innovative solutions to global challenges such as world hunger, climate change, and pandemics, aligning financial returns with positive societal impact. Maxrich Ventures operates an accelerator program to identify and nurture promising startups. They actively seek out companies with key technologies that can solve major problems facing humanity. The firm aims to support startups from early stages through their growth, providing the resources and connections needed to succeed. They focus on companies who are addressing global scale problems with technology, such as cell therapy, renewable energy, and reproductive health.

Early Stage, Accelerator ProgramTechnologyImpact Investing

Possible Ventures

Munich, DE

Possible Ventures invests in early-stage companies focused on solving the world's most pressing challenges. Their investment strategy centers around backing founders working on solutions across climate, energy, health, and society. They seek sustainable initiatives like carbon capture, energy transition, food & agriculture, and new materials, as well as circular economy and space exploration for alternative resources. In health, they target new tools and models for drug discovery and precision medicine, aiming to improve health and longevity. For society, they invest in AI-supported software tools, financial inclusion, and upskilling initiatives to boost productivity and create a more equitable future. The firm looks for frontier technologies in deep tech, life sciences, and software platforms that are unlocking unprecedented innovation. They emphasize the convergence of diverse disciplines, such as science, engineering, and entrepreneurship, believing that interdisciplinary teams drive breakthrough ideas and solutions. This can happen anywhere, and they are open to exploring new regions and building relationships with entrepreneurs and investors globally. Possible Ventures focuses on pre-seed and seed rounds, providing support to startups at the early stages of their development. They may also consider later-stage companies demonstrating strong growth potential and alignment with their investment strategy. They are relentlessly optimistic, choosing to focus on possibilities rather than risks, with a commitment to harnessing technology as a force for good to improve the lives of future generations.

pre-seed, seed, early-stagesclimateenergy