Amsterdam-based Dutch Operator Fund, an investment fund targeting tech-driven Dutch startups in the pre-seed and seed stages, has announced the launch of its first fund, Dutch Operator Fund I, to provide an initial financing opportunity to Dutch startups.
Dutch Operator Fund I has raised €2M for its first fund, with capital from the founders and a loan from the Seed Business Angel scheme of RVO. Investments will range from €75K to €200K, with options for follow-up funding.
Geert-Jan Smits, co-founder of the Dutch Operator Fund, says, “There is a lot of ‘tech talent’ in the Netherlands. The Dutch Operator Fund I distinguishes itself by investing in the early stages of startups. There is a need for this in our country, because for many institutional investors, investing in this stage is often ‘too early’.”
“In addition to money, we bring much more, such as our entrepreneurial experience and network. In this way, we can help talent on its way and contribute to the innovative solutions of tomorrow.”
Everything you need to know about the new Fund
Dutch Operator Fund I claims to specialise in investing in technology-driven startups that develop proprietary technology or software and show early commercial success.
The fund prioritises teams of two to four founders who are committed to working collaboratively and possess a scalable business model. Its key focus sectors include technology, software, SaaS, and the circular economy.
The fund was established by a team of seasoned entrepreneurs and angel investors, including Sjoerd van Berkel, Jeroen Bertrams, Quinten Selhorst, Geert-Jan Smits, Rutger Teunissen, and David Vermeulen.
Jeroen Bertrams, says, “Our joint experience as entrepreneurs and our broad network provides a strong foundation for this fund. Together we have founded and scaled 30 companies, made 13 exits and have 47 years of experience investing in startups.”
“If we were to start a company now, we would grow it 3x faster than before. Because we know the pitfalls and know what is needed for success.”
Sjoerd van Berkel, adds, “We are excited about the opportunity to work with ambitious and dedicated founders. From our own experience, we know how hard it is to grow a startup. Now we are combining our expertise and operational experience to help the next generation of entrepreneurs realise their dreams.”
Brief about the Dutch Operator Fund I
The Dutch Operator Fund is led by seven experienced Dutch entrepreneurs who are also active investors in startups. Combining their knowledge and network, they aim to enhance the Dutch ecosystem of innovation-driven startups.
With a track record of founding and scaling 30 companies, achieving 13 exits, and 47 years of experience in startup investments, the firm provides not only entrepreneurial expertise but also access to a network of founders and investors.
They offer crucial support during both market introduction and growth phases.
In other news
Recently, Amsterdam-based FounderFuel, a private community for Dutch founders and investors, announced that it will invest up to €250K in startups. The Dutch VC targets startups in HR Tech, SportsTech, Crypto, AI, and InsurTech.
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