German Startups Group

German Startups Group (GSG) is a prominent private investment company based in Berlin, Germany, specializing in venture capital. Founded with a unique structure, GSG operated as a publicly listed investment company on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange until its delisting on September 17, 2021. Since then, it has continued its operations as a private entity, maintaining its focus on investing in young, fast-growing companies, primarily within the German startup ecosystem. This transition reflects a strategic shift, allowing for greater flexibility in its investment approach while still leveraging its extensive experience in the venture capital landscape.

GSG's investment strategy typically targets growth-stage companies, often participating in later-stage venture rounds rather than solely focusing on early-stage seed investments. The firm frequently co-invests alongside other venture capital funds, providing capital and strategic support to its portfolio companies. Its portfolio has historically included a mix of minority holdings in rapidly expanding startups and stakes in more mature companies, demonstrating a diversified approach to capital deployment. This broad mandate allows GSG to engage with companies across various stages of their development, from significant growth phases to pre-IPO or acquisition stages.

Historically, German Startups Group has been known for its typical investment range, with initial cheques often falling between 1 million and 5 million euros. For instance, a 2016 report indicated their usual investment ticket size. While this represents their typical range, GSG has demonstrated the capacity to deploy larger sums, such as an investment of up to 10 million euros in Finanzchef24. Their impressive track record includes early investments in now-publicly traded giants like Delivery Hero, HelloFresh, and Mister Spex, underscoring their ability to identify and support companies with significant growth potential. As of 2018, GSG reported a portfolio comprising 46 minority holdings in young, fast-growing companies, alongside 17 mature companies, showcasing their extensive reach and long-term commitment to the German startup scene.