Our Approach

We invest in innovative B2B tech start-ups with a scalable business model. We are particularly interested in teams that solve a relevant problem, have significant growth potential and want to work with us to achieve the next milestones.

Our focus is on early-stage start-ups. Ideally, you will have already validated your problem, be working on your product, or have secured your first pilot customers or generated your first revenue. The key factors are a strong team, a scalable business model and the potential for sustainable growth.

We invest in technology-driven B2B start-ups. We particularly often support start-ups in the fields of Industry Tech, Enterprise Software, B2B platforms and Green Tech. However, we are generally open to all sectors – what matters most is innovative potential, scalability and the founding team.

innoWerft invests up to 50,000 euros in selected early-stage start-ups.

Our investment takes the form of a convertible loan. This financing model is specifically tailored to the needs of early-stage start-ups and provides a solid foundation for future funding rounds.

No, but we support our portfolio companies over the long term and help you attract suitable investors for further funding rounds.

Our venture model goes far beyond simply providing funding. Together, we tackle the key challenges of the early stages of a business – from product development and business models, through organisational development and recruitment, to sales, fundraising and corporate strategy. Throughout this process, you’ll be supported by a dedicated venture manager who acts as your permanent point of contact.

Yes. We’ll help you refine your value proposition, set up your sales organisation and secure your first customers or pilot partners. Through our network, we’ll also put you in touch with companies and potential customers.

Through our network, you’ll gain access to experienced entrepreneurs, mentors and investors. This is how we help you attract pilot customers, build strategic partnerships and make the right connections for your next phase of growth.

Yes. We’ll prepare you specifically for your funding rounds. This includes, amongst other things, refining your pitch deck, creating a compelling teaser, preparing for meetings with investors, and giving you access to our network of investors.

We see ourselves as a long-term sparring partner. Our aim is to actively support you from your very first steps right through to the next stages of growth and funding. We usually support our teams up to Series A, but if requested, we are also open to providing further support.

The application process consists of three steps:

1. Pitch: Submit your pitch deck via the Open pitch-form on our website. Once we have reviewed your documents, we will invite you to a pitch meeting.
2. Decision: If your pitch has convinced us, we’ll arrange further discussions to get to know your start-up, your team and your vision better. Once all outstanding questions have been clarified, we’ll make a decision on investment in due course.
3. Onboarding: Once the contract has been signed, we’ll kick off our collaboration with a joint kick-off workshop. During this workshop, you’ll meet your personal venture manager, who will act as your dedicated point of contact and support you over the long term.

All you need for the first step of your application is a pitch deck.

We aim to provide start-up teams with clarity as quickly as possible. If there is mutual interest following your pitch, further discussions will take place. As soon as all relevant questions have been clarified, we will make an investment decision without delay.

No. Applying via Open Pitch and the entire selection process are free of charge.