
SIDE Capital
Description
SIDE Capital is a prominent French venture capital firm based in Paris, specializing in early-stage investments within the tech and digital sectors. Established with a focus on supporting ambitious founders, the firm primarily targets Seed and Series A rounds. Their investment philosophy centers on identifying innovative B2B SaaS, marketplaces, and digital platforms with strong growth potential, aiming to be a key partner in their development.
The firm is well-regarded for its hands-on approach, providing not just capital but also significant operational support to its portfolio companies. This value-add includes strategic guidance, talent acquisition, and business development assistance, often facilitated through their proprietary "Side Academy" program. SIDE Capital typically acts as a lead or co-lead investor, deploying initial cheques that range from €500,000 to €3 million, which translates to approximately $540,000 to $3.24 million USD based on recent exchange rates.
SIDE Capital has built a robust portfolio, having invested in over 70 startups since its inception, demonstrating a significant and active footprint in the European tech ecosystem. The firm manages over €150 million in assets across multiple funds, with their latest vehicle, Fund III, closing at €80 million in 2021. Notable investments include rapidly scaling companies like Matera, Leocare, and Indy (formerly Georges.tech), showcasing their ability to back successful ventures and support them through subsequent growth stages.
Investor Profile
SIDE Capital has backed more than 39 startups, with 2 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 23 rounds, about 59% of its total and boasts 3 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Seed, Series Unknown, Series A rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in France, Switzerland.
- Strong thematic focus on Software, Internet, Artificial Intelligence (AI).
- Typical check size: $540K – $3.2M.
Stage Focus
- Seed (59%)
- Series Unknown (28%)
- Series A (8%)
- Pre Seed (3%)
- Angel (3%)
Country Focus
- France (95%)
- Switzerland (3%)
Industry Focus
- Software
- Internet
- Artificial Intelligence (Ai)
- Machine Learning
- Saas
- E-learning
- Employee Benefits
- Training
- Big Data
- Marketing
Frequently Asked Questions
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