Budapest-based Lead Ventures has launched a new €100 million fund, targeting the best startups in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). The VC firm launched this fund with the backing of MOL Group and NTH (National Capital Holding).
Amidst the ongoing investment crisis, we have seen VC firms such as London-based 13books Capital, Germany-based Alpine Space Ventures, and global VC Index Ventures close new funds.
Investment plan
With the new fund, Lead Ventures continues its mission to empower high-potential founders in the region. It targets late Seed & Series A companies whose products and services have already been validated on the market and require substantial capital to drive their next growth phase.
The fund will offer investments ranging from €2 million to €10 million, providing a crucial boost to companies in strengthening their Product-Market Fit and expanding to new markets.
The new fund will not only provide capital but also leverage the firm’s extensive network of industry experts and strategic partners to support portfolio companies. This approach ensures that startups receive the necessary guidance and resources to navigate their growth journeys successfully.
The Hungarian VC has collaborated with notable investors in the region such as Credo Ventures, Presto Ventures, and Point9 Capital, enhancing its ability to provide substantial support and resources to portfolio companies.
Investment portfolio
Founded by Abel Galacz in 2017 in Hungary, Lead Ventures is a specialist in financing scale-ups in Central Europe. Its mission is to support the region’s most promising ventures with capital, experience, and a wide-ranging professional network, enabling them to transform their industry with innovation.
The VC firm has a strong track record of investing in companies across various sectors, including mobility, energy, and fintech, among other B2B software verticals.
Previous successful exits include AiMotive, a leader in autonomous vehicle technology, which was the biggest exit in Hungary to date; and Amodo, an innovative insurance technology provider. Among the existing portfolio companies; Cloudtalk, an AI-powered call centre software provider; Antavo, a cutting-edge loyalty management platform; and Recart, a pioneering e-commerce messaging platform.
“Our investment strategy focuses on sectors with significant growth potential and technological innovation,” said Balázs Haszonics, CEO of Lead Ventures. “We are particularly interested in companies operating in the fields of mobility, finance, energy, IoT, sustainability and retail. Our goal is to build a robust portfolio that delivers financial returns and also drives positive societal impact.”
What do we think about Lead Ventures?
The Hungarian VC is poised to significantly impact the Central and Eastern European startup ecosystem by targeting high-potential late Seed and Series A companies. It focuses on sectors with substantial growth potential, such as mobility, finance, and sustainability, and aligns with market needs and technological advancements.
By leveraging a strong professional network and providing crucial capital and strategic support, Lead Ventures will empower startups to scale effectively, fostering innovation and driving positive societal change across the region.