
OpenOcean
Description
OpenOcean is a distinguished pan-European early-stage Venture Capital firm, strategically positioned with offices in Helsinki and London. The firm specializes in B2B software, data infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity, focusing on companies that possess deep technology and defensible intellectual property. Founded by experienced entrepreneurs and investors who have successfully built and scaled global software businesses, including MySQL and MariaDB, OpenOcean leverages its operational expertise to support its portfolio companies from inception through growth.
The firm primarily targets Seed and Series A rounds, often taking a lead or co-lead position. OpenOcean's initial investments typically range from €1 million to €5 million, which translates to approximately $1.08 million to $5.4 million based on current exchange rates. This investment strategy allows them to provide substantial early capital while actively participating in the strategic development of their portfolio companies. They are known for their hands-on approach, offering guidance on product development, market strategy, and international expansion.
OpenOcean has demonstrated a robust track record of success over its two decades of operation. In 2023, the firm successfully closed its fifth fund, OpenOcean V, at €100 million, contributing to a total of over €300 million in assets under management across its various funds. Their portfolio boasts more than 20 successful exits, including notable acquisitions such as MySQL by Sun Microsystems for $1 billion and Supermetrics by HubSpot, alongside public listings like Truecaller. This consistent performance underscores OpenOcean's ability to identify and nurture high-potential technology ventures, driving significant returns for their limited partners and fostering innovation within the European tech ecosystem.
Investor Profile
OpenOcean has backed more than 87 startups, with 4 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 36 rounds, about 41% of its total and boasts 14 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Series A, Series B, Seed rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in Finland, United States, United Kingdom.
- Strong thematic focus on Software, Information Technology, Analytics.
- Led 2 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $1.1M – $5.4M.
Stage Focus
- Series A (47%)
- Series B (17%)
- Seed (15%)
- Series C (8%)
- Series Unknown (8%)
- Pre Seed (1%)
- Private Equity (1%)
- Undisclosed (1%)
- Angel (1%)
Country Focus
- Finland (31%)
- United States (28%)
- United Kingdom (13%)
- Germany (7%)
- Sweden (3%)
- France (3%)
- Hungary (3%)
- Switzerland (2%)
- Lithuania (2%)
- Estonia (2%)
Industry Focus
- Software
- Information Technology
- Analytics
- Artificial Intelligence (Ai)
- Machine Learning
- Saas
- Enterprise Software
- Big Data
- Mobile
- Mobile Apps
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn who this investor regularly partners with—both firms and angels—and explore their latest activity.