What's Happening?
Aneli Capital, a newly established fund, has been launched to support early-stage startups in the Baltics, Poland, and other Central and Eastern European (CEE) countries. The fund, amounting to €35 million, will focus on sectors such as Information and Communication Technology (ICT), robotics, space, photonics, and energy. The aim is to help these startups grow and become attractive to follow-on investors. Aneli Capital is led by a team of experts with over 15 years of experience in business funding. The fund promises efficient decision-making and founder-friendly terms, distinguishing itself from other investors who may only engage during hype cycles. The fund plans to make around 20 investments over the next five years, with an average investment of €1.5
million per startup.
Why It's Important?
The launch of Aneli Capital is significant as it addresses the funding gap faced by startups in the CEE region, which often struggle to scale compared to their Western counterparts. By focusing on sectors like robotics and ICT, the fund aims to foster innovation and economic growth in these regions. This initiative could enhance the visibility and competitiveness of CEE startups on the international stage. Additionally, the fund's emphasis on real product development and early customer acquisition aligns with sustainable business practices, potentially leading to long-term success for the startups involved. The involvement of experienced investors and strategic partners further strengthens the fund's potential impact.
What's Next?
Aneli Capital plans to fund eight startups in the coming year and exit several companies from previous funds. The fund will also allocate resources to AI startups, prioritizing those with proven or testable solutions. More than half of the fund's capital will be invested in Lithuania, with the remainder supporting startups in Latvia, Estonia, Poland, and other CEE countries. The fund's strategic focus on sectors with untapped opportunities, such as photonics and smart manufacturing, suggests a targeted approach to investment. As the fund seeks new investors, its success could attract additional capital, further supporting the growth of tech startups in the region.
