
Helvetica Capital
Description
Helvetica Capital is a Zürich-based independent investor specializing in established, profitable Swiss small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Founded with an entrepreneurial ethos, the firm distinguishes itself by focusing on businesses with proven track records, rather than early-stage ventures. Their core mission revolves around providing capital and strategic support for various scenarios, including succession solutions for retiring founders, financing growth initiatives, and facilitating corporate spin-offs or carve-outs.
The firm typically targets companies across diverse sectors such as industrial, services, consumer goods, and healthcare, demonstrating a broad yet focused approach within the Swiss economic landscape. Helvetica Capital's investment strategy involves taking majority or significant minority stakes, indicating a preference for deep engagement and influence in their portfolio companies. A key financial parameter of their investment approach is their typical check size, which ranges from CHF 5 million to CHF 30 million per transaction. This translates approximately to USD 5.5 million to USD 33 million, depending on the prevailing exchange rate, underscoring their commitment to substantial investments in mature businesses.
Beyond capital injection, Helvetica Capital prides itself on being an active and hands-on partner. The team leverages its extensive operational and investment experience, boasting over 100 years of combined entrepreneurial and investment expertise, to support portfolio companies in strategic development, operational improvements, and international expansion. This active involvement aims to foster sustainable growth and enhance long-term value. Their dedication to the Swiss market and focus on established businesses positions them as a crucial player in the country's SME financing ecosystem, offering tailored solutions for complex business transitions and expansion phases.
Investor Profile
Helvetica Capital has backed more than 20 startups, with 0 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 2 rounds, about 10% of its total and boasts 6 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Private Equity, Series Unknown, Seed rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States.
- Strong thematic focus on Manufacturing, Information Technology, Medical.
- Typical check size: $5.5M – $33M.
Stage Focus
- Private Equity (50%)
- Series Unknown (25%)
- Seed (10%)
- Series B (5%)
- Series A (5%)
- Debt Financing (5%)
Country Focus
- Switzerland (90%)
- United Kingdom (5%)
- United States (5%)
Industry Focus
- Manufacturing
- Information Technology
- Medical
- Supply Chain Management
- Health Care
- Medical Device
- Biotechnology
- Computer
- Industrial
- Industrial Automation
Frequently Asked Questions
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