InnoVentureFund – Venture Capital for Hamburg Startups

An equity participation instrument based in Hamburg provides up to EUR 7 million in venture capital for young, growth-oriented companies that have already successfully completed their seed phase. The goal is the sustainable strengthening of the equity base and liquidity of innovative business models from all sectors – for example, in the areas of ecology, digitalization, or social innovation. The funds can be flexibly used for working capital, investments, acquisitions, as well as general corporate financing. Equity-like financial instruments such as open participations, shareholder loans with conversion options, and convertible loans are employed. Each participation is always made on an equal partnership basis (“pari passu”) with private investors to ensure a market-oriented structure.

Eligible for funding are non-listed GmbHs and comparable corporations with at least one location in Hamburg. Further requirements include a scalable, growth-oriented business model, a convincing management team, as well as clear exit and value enhancement potentials. Companies must neither violate the ESG exclusion list of IFB Innovationsstarter GmbH nor the KfW exclusion list and must not be considered to be in difficulty. For the application, a pitch deck, a detailed business and financial plan, and anti-money laundering documentation are available at any time. Selection is based on the level of innovation, growth potential, management quality, and the involvement of private investors on an equal footing. This continuously open funding pool supports technology- and future-oriented startups in realizing their ambitious growth objectives in Hamburg.