Early Game Ventures

Early Game Ventures is a prominent venture capital firm based in Bucharest, Romania, with a strategic focus on early-stage technology startups across the Central and Eastern European (CEE) region. Established to catalyze innovation and foster new industries, the firm plays a crucial role in developing the startup ecosystem in emerging European markets, particularly Romania. Their investment thesis centers on identifying companies with high growth potential that are poised to disrupt existing markets or create entirely new ones, often leveraging deep tech, AI, SaaS, fintech, and cybersecurity solutions.

The firm manages multiple funds, demonstrating a consistent commitment to the region's entrepreneurial landscape. Their initial vehicle, Early Game Ventures Fund I, launched with a total capitalization of approximately €29 million, significantly supported by the European Investment Fund (EIF) through the JEREMIE Romania program. This fund typically deployed first checks ranging from €100,000 to €1.5 million into promising startups. Building on this success, Early Game Ventures launched its second fund, Early Game Ventures Fund II, in 2022, targeting a larger capitalization of €60 million.

With the second fund, Early Game Ventures has adjusted its investment scope to provide more substantial capital. For first-time investments, the firm now typically writes checks ranging from €250,000 to €3 million. They also reserve capital for follow-on rounds, potentially investing up to €5 million in their portfolio companies as they achieve significant milestones and require further growth capital. This structured approach allows them to support startups from their initial traction through subsequent growth phases, solidifying their position as one of the most active and impactful venture capital players in Romania and the broader CEE region. Their commitment to fostering innovation and providing strategic guidance alongside capital makes them a key partner for startups aiming for regional and global expansion.