
FTTF
Description
FTTF, or Fraunhofer Technologie-Transfer Fonds, is a dedicated venture capital fund operating out of Munich, Germany, with a singular focus on deeptech startups that leverage technologies developed within the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft. As an integral part of Fraunhofer Venture, FTTF plays a crucial role in commercializing cutting-edge research and intellectual property stemming from Fraunhofer's extensive network of over 76 research institutes across Germany. The fund's primary mission is to bridge the gap between scientific innovation and market viability, providing essential capital and strategic support to transform groundbreaking research into successful enterprises.
The fund primarily targets Pre-Seed and Seed-stage companies, demonstrating a commitment to nurturing ventures from their earliest phases. FTTF's investment thesis centers on technologies with high disruptive potential, particularly those emerging from Fraunhofer's deep research in areas such as advanced materials, artificial intelligence, photonics, and sustainable technologies. Initial investments typically range from approximately $215,000 (€200,000) to $1,080,000 (€1,000,000), with the capacity for significant follow-on funding as portfolio companies achieve key milestones and scale. This strategic approach ensures that promising spin-offs receive the necessary financial backing to develop their products, build their teams, and penetrate target markets.
Beyond capital, FTTF offers its portfolio companies unparalleled access to the vast resources of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft. This includes access to state-of-the-art laboratories, specialized equipment, a deep pool of scientific and engineering talent, and a global network of industry partners and experts. The fund's hands-on approach involves active support in business development, intellectual property management, and strategic guidance, helping founders navigate the complexities of deeptech commercialization. FTTF's long-term vision is to foster a robust ecosystem of innovation, contributing to Germany's technological leadership and creating high-impact businesses from world-class research.
Investor Profile
FTTF has backed more than 47 startups, with 3 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 16 rounds, about 34% of its total and boasts 1 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Seed, Pre Seed, Series A rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in Germany, Switzerland.
- Strong thematic focus on Software, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Manufacturing.
- Typical check size: $215K – $1.1M.
Stage Focus
- Seed (47%)
- Pre Seed (43%)
- Series A (6%)
- Series B (2%)
- Series Unknown (2%)
Country Focus
- Germany (98%)
- Switzerland (2%)
Industry Focus
- Software
- Artificial Intelligence (Ai)
- Manufacturing
- Saas
- Logistics
- Analytics
- Agriculture
- Geospatial
- Information Technology
- 3d Printing
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