Connect Ventures has secured $55 million in the first close of its fifth fund, which aims to reach a total of $80 million. The capital is designated for early-stage technology startups across Europe, with a specific focus on teams possessing deep technical expertise.
The British Business Bank serves as the anchor investor for the new fund. Additional backing comes from existing partners such as Aldea Ventures, Sella Venture Partners, and Molten Ventures, alongside new participants including various European family offices and founders of previously supported companies.
The firm, led by partners Pietro Bezza, Sitar Teli, and Rory Stirling, maintains a low-volume investment strategy. It typically leads pre-seed rounds, providing investments ranging from $500,000 to $5 million per startup.
Since its establishment in 2012, Connect Ventures has invested in over 120 companies. Notable portfolio firms include TrueLayer and Aikido Security. The team continues to emphasize close collaboration with founders from the earliest stages of development.
