
Equinor Ventures
Description
Equinor Ventures is the corporate venture capital arm of Equinor, a global energy company headquartered in Norway. Established to accelerate the energy transition, Equinor Ventures strategically invests in innovative companies developing technologies and business models that align with Equinor's broad energy portfolio. Their core focus areas encompass renewable energy, low-carbon solutions, oil and gas optimization, and digital technologies that can enhance efficiency and sustainability across the energy value chain. The fund aims to foster a future-oriented energy landscape by supporting pioneering ventures.
As a strategic investor, Equinor Ventures typically participates in growth-stage funding rounds, including Series A, B, and beyond, often co-investing alongside other venture capital firms and strategic partners. They seek companies that have demonstrated initial traction and are poised for significant scaling, leveraging Equinor's extensive industry expertise, global reach, and operational capabilities to support their portfolio companies. Their investment philosophy is driven by the potential for technological integration and strategic alignment with Equinor's long-term business objectives, rather than purely financial returns.
Since its inception in 2016, Equinor Ventures has built a robust portfolio, demonstrating a consistent commitment to fostering innovation. As of 2023, the firm had invested in more than 40 companies, deploying a total commitment of approximately $200 million across various energy technology sectors. Notable investments include participation in significant rounds for companies like Commonwealth Fusion Systems, a developer of compact fusion power plants, and Hystar, a Norwegian electrolyser manufacturer. These investments underscore Equinor Ventures' capacity to engage in substantial funding rounds, reflecting their dedication to high-impact energy solutions.
Equinor Ventures plays a crucial role in Equinor's broader strategy to diversify its energy offerings and achieve its climate ambitions. By identifying and nurturing promising technologies, they contribute to the development of a more sustainable and resilient energy system. Their global outlook, combined with their deep industry knowledge, positions them as a significant player in the corporate venture capital landscape for energy innovation.
Investor Profile
Equinor Ventures has backed more than 40 startups, with 6 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 10 rounds, about 25% of its total and boasts 0 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Series B, Series A, Series C rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in United States, United Kingdom, Norway.
- Strong thematic focus on Renewable Energy, Energy, CleanTech.
- Typical check size: $2M – $15M.
Stage Focus
- Series B (38%)
- Series A (28%)
- Series C (10%)
- Series D (8%)
- Seed (5%)
- Undisclosed (5%)
- Pre Seed (3%)
- Series Unknown (3%)
- Private Equity (3%)
Country Focus
- United States (57%)
- United Kingdom (8%)
- Norway (5%)
- Australia (5%)
- France (5%)
- Spain (5%)
- Singapore (3%)
- Canada (3%)
- Israel (3%)
- The Netherlands (3%)
Industry Focus
- Renewable Energy
- Energy
- Cleantech
- Clean Energy
- Analytics
- Oil And Gas
- Manufacturing
- Mining
- Chemical
- Carbon Capture
Frequently Asked Questions
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