Investment AB Kinnevik
Kinnevik is a leading growth investor, active owner, and operational partner that provides patient capital to challenger technology-enabled businesses in Europe and the US. They focus on supporting passionate founders who are building tomorrow's leaders within healthcare, software, and climate, with the goal of making everyday life easier and better for people around the world. Kinnevik invests at all stages of a company's growth journey, always determined to create long-term value. Kinnevik's investment philosophy emphasizes identifying companies with the potential to redefine industries and achieve remarkable growth. They seek out opportunities where technology can drive significant improvements and create lasting impact. This approach is reflected in their portfolio, which includes companies operating in sectors poised for disruption and growth. From the perspective of corporate governance, Kinnevik's Board of Directors is responsible for the overall strategy, integrating sustainability into value creation. The Audit & Sustainability Committee monitors the governance structures of investee companies, risk management, and compliance. Kinnevik's investment decisions are guided by a commitment to long-term value creation, responsible corporate governance, and a focus on sectors with significant growth potential, this is evident in their investment in Solugen to decarbonize the chemicals industry, their investment in Perk which is targeting the corporate travel industry and their focus on innovation in Healthcare with companies like Strand Therapeutics and Oviva.
Kale United
Kale United is a leading agrifoodtech investor in the Nordics, founded in 2018. They invest thematically with an impact lens in disruptive companies operating within animal-free value chains. Their investments are diversified across a broad range of agrifoodtech companies with scalable solutions for R&D, production, and distribution of plant-based products or cultivated meat. Kale United believes that the current food system is unsustainable, unreliable, unhealthy, and underfunded. The firm is committed to building value for its investors and the planet by delivering strong returns. They aim to create the scale needed to make a significant impact on people and the planet. This impact is achieved through investments in climate and health-focused initiatives. The food sector offers the highest CO2 reduction per dollar invested, making it the most impactful sector to focus on. Kale United's investment strategy aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, aiming to deliver exceptional financial returns while making a positive environmental and social impact. Profitability and growth are viewed as prerequisites for creating lasting impact. By delivering strong returns to investors, they aim to create the scale needed to make a significant impact on the planet. The firm emphasizes rigorous technical and impact due diligence, guiding companies through every stage of growth with the help of their Advisory Board, consisting of experts in the agrifoodtech sector. Kale United operates with a strong network of industrial experts and partners.
Karolinska Development
Karolinska Development (KDventures) aims to invest in innovative life science companies. The firm believes investments should be meaningful and focuses on creating returns by supporting the development of promising therapeutics and medical technologies. KDventures provides investors the opportunity to invest in the future of pharmaceutical and medtech companies without necessarily being a specialist in the field and diversifying their risk. The firm's investment model focuses on identifying and nurturing early-stage life science companies with the potential for significant growth and impact. They leverage their expertise and network within the life science ecosystem to support these companies through various stages of development, from preclinical to clinical trials and eventual commercialization. They possess unique competence in the life science field. KDventures aims to bridge the gap between promising research and successful commercialization, contributing to advancements in healthcare and generating financial returns for their investors through exits.
Kinnevik
Kinnevik is a leading growth investor, active owner, and operational partner that provides patient capital to challenger technology-enabled businesses in Europe and the US. They focus on passionate founders building tomorrow’s leaders within healthcare, software, and climate, aiming to make everyday life easier and better for people around the world. Kinnevik invests at all stages of a company’s growth journey, with a determined focus on creating long-term value. They actively participate in the governance structures of their investee companies, including monitoring risk management and compliance. Kinnevik's investment strategy emphasizes identifying companies with the potential to redefine industries. This includes backing companies with strong visions and robust technologies, such as Solugen, which aims to decarbonize the chemicals industry. They look for opportunities to increase supply chain resilience and drive efficiency through innovative solutions and domestic manufacturing. Kinnevik also targets corporate travel transformation through platforms like Perk, which offers transparency and control over travel expenses while enhancing the user experience. In the healthcare sector, Kinnevik focuses on companies like Oviva, which provide digital health solutions. They invest in businesses that leverage AI and big data to transform biotech, such as Solugen's use of AI-designed enzymes. Their climate strategy involves supporting companies that meaningfully reduce global CO2 emissions. They actively engage with their investments, as demonstrated by their participation in industry conferences and partnerships, such as Solugen's partnership with American Rheinmetall Munitions.
Mellby Gård
Mellby Gård is a family-owned, long-term investor focused on preserving the entrepreneurial spirit within its portfolio companies. Their strategy involves acquiring promising companies and nurturing them into industry leaders. They operate with a long-term perspective, emphasizing sustainable growth and stability. The firm is actively engaged in supporting its portfolio companies across various sectors, including consumer goods, industry, agriculture, and services. Mellby Gård also places a strong emphasis on social responsibility, particularly concerning children and education, striving to promote equal opportunities both within Sweden and internationally. The 2024 Årsmagasin (Annual Magazine) highlights their commitment to transparency and provides insights into the group's performance, covering themes like geopolitics, AI, digitalization, and sustainability. Recent financial results indicate a strong performance in 2024, despite global uncertainties, showcasing the firm's ability to adapt and thrive in challenging market conditions. Their hands-on approach, combined with a focus on long-term value creation, distinguishes them from more short-term oriented investors.
Minc
Minc is a startup house located in Malmö, Sweden, that aims to support entrepreneurs in building impactful and scalable businesses. Established in 2002 by the City of Malmö, Minc provides a platform for startups through incubator programs, accelerator programs like Fast Track Malmö, and pre-incubator programs. The organization emphasizes community, mentorship, and access to a global network of business angels, coaches, and industry experts. Minc's model prioritizes the well-being and growth of its entrepreneurs, and it operates without a profit-driven motive, as it is fully owned by the City of Malmö. Minc's strategy centers around providing personalized support tailored to each startup's specific needs. They offer programs such as Sprint for early-stage validation, along with other resources designed to help startups progress from the idea stage to scaling. Minc also emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusivity, demonstrated through initiatives like the Nordic Fe:male Invest Summit, which aims to connect female and non-binary founders with investors. The firm aims to foster an ecosystem where diverse voices are heard and innovation is driven by equality. Their approach includes creating opportunities for startups to connect with investors through events like Minc Capital Day and providing access to a network of mentors and coaches with real-world experience. By creating a strong community, Minc facilitates knowledge sharing and mutual support among its startups. The firm's investment structure, exemplified by Skåne Ventures, contributes to the startup ecosystem by providing funding opportunities and resources to support growth. Furthermore, Minc actively seeks to support the growth of specific industries within Malmö, such as the gaming industry, through collaborations with organizations like Game Habitat and DevHub. By focusing on creating a vibrant and supportive environment, Minc aims to nurture the next generation of successful startups in the region and beyond.
Neptunia Invest
Neptunia Invest is a Swedish investment company with Nordic private ownership that focuses on creating and developing market-leading companies through active ownership. They invest in the real estate, and defence and security sectors with a long-term investment perspective, without a stated investment horizon, allowing them to focus on value creation and sustainable growth. Neptunia is a committed owner that exerts influence through board representation, aiming to actively develop and support their core holdings to become market leaders. They identify and capitalize on value-creating opportunities, such as benchmarking, analyzing the impact of long-term trends on operations and the market, and identifying acquisition opportunities in line with their corporate governance model. Their investment strategy involves both core holdings and minority holdings. For core holdings, the goal is active development and support to achieve market leadership. Since 2019, Neptunia has also built a portfolio of minority-owned holdings, focusing on companies led by strong entrepreneurs and digital business models. In these minority investments, Neptunia acts as one of several significant investors, providing capital and industrial network to help the companies reach their full potential. Furthermore, Neptunia manages financial investments through Slättö's funds and in other well-established companies within the sectors they are active. These investments, particularly in Slättö's funds, have yielded strong risk-adjusted returns and regular preference dividends. This suggests a diversified approach to investment, combining active ownership in core companies with more passive financial investments.
Nidoco AB
Nidoco AB is a Swedish investment company established in 1965, focused on creating long-term value through active ownership. They invest in both public and private companies, aiming to be leading shareholders in their portfolio companies. Operating independently as part of the Virala Group, Nidoco's strategy revolves around active engagement and a commitment to the long-term growth of their investments. Their investment approach emphasizes reliability, honesty, commitment, agility, and respect. They strive to be trusted partners who value transparency and keep their word. With an entrepreneurial mindset, they respond quickly to new opportunities and make decisions with confidence and clarity. Nidoco also values individuality and diverse perspectives, treating everyone with dignity. Nidoco currently holds significant positions in four listed Nordic companies and maintains direct and indirect investments in over 300 unlisted companies globally. This suggests a diversified portfolio spanning various industries and geographies. The focus on active ownership implies a hands-on approach, working closely with portfolio companies to drive growth and value creation. Their core values of reliability, commitment, and respect indicate a patient, long-term investment horizon. Nidoco aims to build lasting relationships with its portfolio companies and partners, based on trust and mutual respect. The lean structure and clear focus mentioned suggest efficient decision-making and a commitment to operational excellence.
Nineyards Equity
Nineyards Equity invests in exceptional entrepreneurs and leading game-changing companies looking to scale. They aim to support these companies 'the whole nine yards.' They focus on companies that are at the scale-up and growth stage, typically from Series A onwards, and look for companies with a proven business model that is both scalable and resilient. They believe that companies with a net positive impact on ESG will generate superior financial returns and prioritize investments in such companies. They emphasize a hands-on, surgical, and founder-friendly approach, focusing on areas where they can add strategic value beyond just capital. The firm seeks to be a next-generation investor, understanding the needs of entrepreneurs scaling their businesses.
Njord Ventures
Focuses on Swedish entrepreneurial companies with scalable, technology-driven business models and exceptional growth potential. Values entrepreneurship, integrity, and drive.
Nordic Capital
Nordic Capital aims to drive transformative growth in its portfolio companies through deep sector knowledge and operational capabilities. Their vision is to continue developing market-leading businesses, be the preferred partner for motivated business owners and management teams, attract top talent, and contribute positively to society. They emphasize a selective investment approach, focusing on companies with high growth potential and avoiding reliance on external economic factors. Value creation is driven primarily by sales growth, supported by a strong operational framework. Their approach involves close collaboration with portfolio companies, offering strategic guidance and structured support through various phases of growth.
Norrsken Accelerate
Norrsken invests in founders building solutions to global systemic challenges, emphasizing scalable impact alongside financial returns. The organization operates multiple independent funds with tailored geographical and stage focuses, fostering a global community of innovators aligned with sustainability and social progress.
Norrsken Evolve
Norrsken Evolve is a pre-seed fund focused on supporting early-stage founders in Europe who are building resilient and sustainable solutions to address critical global challenges. The firm aims to turn crisis into opportunity by investing in companies redefining industries like energy, manufacturing, transportation, construction, food production, healthcare, information security, and democratic safeguards. They believe Europe has the science, innovation, talent, and investor demand to foster the next wave of global technology leaders. They target founders who understand the severity of current challenges and are determined to create a positive impact on the world. Norrsken Evolve provides capital, a world-class in-person program, and a strong network to accelerate the growth of its portfolio companies. The firm emphasizes that economies, industries, and ways of living must evolve in the face of unprecedented risks, and the founders they back will lead this evolution. They seek visionary entrepreneurs capable of building companies that can positively impact 1 billion lives across the globe and have the potential to grow into impact unicorns. Their investment strategy focuses on pre-seed stage companies with the potential to revolutionize various sectors and address environmental, social, and governance (ESG) concerns. They are looking for companies that will redefine how we generate energy, rebuild manufacturing, move goods, construct buildings, produce food, treat our sick, secure our information, protect democracy, and safeguard our societies from climate disruption. Norrsken Evolve aims to lead the evolution necessary for Europe to step up and address the challenges the continent is facing. They invest in founders with a focus on building a resilient and sustainable future for Europe, providing them with the necessary resources and support to achieve their goals and make a significant positive impact on the world.
Norrsken Foundation
Norrsken Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship and leveraging technology for positive global change. They operate on the belief that entrepreneurs and technology are powerful forces capable of addressing some of the world's most pressing issues. Their approach involves building an ecosystem where founders can access the resources they need to build businesses focused on solving significant challenges. They are creating hubs, or 'Houses', in various locations around the world like Stockholm, Kigali, Brussels, Barcelona, and Amsterdam to support these founders and investors. Norrsken aims to support and cultivate companies that can have a meaningful and positive impact. They are focused on companies that are addressing global challenges like climate change and poverty. They also appear to be concerned with the mental health and wellbeing of people, as mentioned on the homepage. The foundation seeks to create a network effect where founders can connect with investors and other support systems to help scale their businesses, and is dedicated to the concept of impact investing that prioritizes creating positive impact alongside financial returns. Their commitment to impact is evident in their 'Impact 100' initiative, although the specifics are not detailed. They also actively support a number of portfolio companies within their network. They aim to create a model that can be emulated, highlighting Sweden as an example of successful impact investing. Ultimately, they hope to support entrepreneurs building scalable businesses to solve the world's most pressing problems. Norrsken acknowledges the challenges of balancing growth with sustainability and addressing issues such as addiction, obesity, and mental health. They aim to support and promote entrepreneurs that can create solutions to these pressing societal issues, thereby contributing to a more sustainable and equitable future. The foundation's ultimate goal is to create an ecosystem where businesses can thrive while simultaneously addressing some of the world's most significant problems.
Partnerinvest Norr
Partnerinvest Norr is a venture capital firm focused on investing in small and medium-sized growth companies with strong entrepreneurial teams in the Norrbotten and Västerbotten regions of northern Sweden. They invest across industries as long as the business model is scalable, preferably with international potential. The firm aims to contribute to regional growth by providing capital and active ownership, working in collaboration with other investors. Their investment horizon is 3-7 years, with potential exit strategies including industrial sales, secondary sales to new investors, or buyouts by the founders. Partnerinvest Norr operates funds financed with structural funds from the EU, co-financed by Norrlandsfonden, Region Norrbotten and Region Västerbotten. The first fund closed in Autumn 2023, fund two is in the management phase, and fund three is actively making new investments. They seek driven entrepreneurs with scalable ideas and a clear national or international market potential, based in Norrbotten or Västerbotten. The firm provides financial capacity to support companies in several stages of their development, with initial investments typically ranging from 1-3 million SEK, and up to 10 million SEK in total. They contribute not only capital but also active ownership and board work, without becoming the majority shareholder. Partnerinvest Norr aims to be a partner for entrepreneurs, offering access to their extensive regional network and experience. Partnerinvest Norr actively looks for co-investors to join them in backing companies in Northern Sweden. Their name suggests their focus; they search for investment oppurtunities that will return good revenue. These other investors are private, such as other venture capital firms or angel investors.
STING
STING is Sweden's leading startup accelerator, focused on helping early-stage startups achieve success faster. They provide strategic support, coaching, investor access, and a strong network to accelerate growth. STING's approach involves tailored coaching programs, access to a network of angels and investors, and the potential for investment, specifically targeting startups with ambitious goals. They actively support the transformation of climate innovators into growth companies through projects like Sting Climate Action, co-funded by the EU/ERDF, and foster innovation in healthcare via the Circle of Life Science project, collaborating with institutions such as Karolinska University Hospital to promote patient-centered care. STING also provides access to industry experts with real-world experience in sectors like ClimateTech, DeepTech, Health, and SaaS, aiding startups in refining their go-to-market strategies and navigating regulatory challenges.
Saminvest
Saminvest is a Swedish government-owned venture capital firm that invests in privately managed venture capital funds and business angel programs. Their primary goal is to stimulate the supply of private capital in areas of the capital supply chain where it is lacking. Saminvest often acts as an anchor investor, contributing to the establishment of new fund management teams and the growth of the Swedish venture capital ecosystem. They invest on commercial terms to attract co-investment from private capital. Saminvest prioritizes sustainability and actively promotes gender equality within fund teams. The aim is to enable more innovative companies to grow.
Scania Growth Capital
Scania Invest, the in-house global venture capital arm of Scania, focuses on accelerating the shift towards a sustainable transport future. They invest across all stages, from seed to late, providing not only capital but also leveraging Scania's core capabilities to drive value as long-term partners. The fund aims to support innovative technologies and visionary entrepreneurs that contribute to a cleaner, more efficient, and sustainable future within the transportation ecosystem. They believe in diversity as a key driver of success, bringing together different perspectives to build stronger, more resilient companies, and emphasize the strength of partnerships to drive stronger outcomes. Scania Invest strives to create a sustainable impact by supporting innovations that contribute to financial growth and environmental responsibility.
Scania Ventures and New Business
Scania Ventures and New Business, as part of the Scania Group, focuses on driving the shift towards a sustainable transport system. Their investment thesis revolves around supporting technological innovation and smart transport solutions to create a world of mobility that is better for business, society, and the environment. This includes investing in companies that contribute to decarbonization, circular business models, and people sustainability within the transport sector. Scania is particularly interested in electrification, autonomous solutions, and innovative technologies that can shape the future of transport. They aim to create lasting value for all stakeholders, including customers, employees, suppliers, and society, by providing profitable and sustainable solutions. Scania emphasizes partnerships and collaborations as essential for driving change. They actively seek to collaborate with customers, transport service buyers, energy suppliers, infrastructure providers, and industry peers. This collaborative approach allows them to leverage collective knowledge and resources to accelerate the adoption of sustainable transport solutions. The firm is also committed to managing its environmental and social impact across the entire value chain, ensuring that their investments align with their vision of sustainable development. Their focus on innovation is a key driver of their investment strategy. Scania actively develops new ideas and technologies through internal research and development, as well as through investments in external startups and innovative companies. They leverage new tools and ways of working to rapidly develop solutions that address the evolving needs of the transport industry. The firm's commitment to sustainability and innovation positions them as a leader in the transition towards a more sustainable and efficient transport ecosystem. Scania’s strategy is rooted in a clear understanding of the evolving landscape of the transport industry. They continuously analyze future trends and challenges to identify investment opportunities that align with their long-term vision. Their focus on electrification, autonomous solutions, and connected services reflects their belief that these technologies will play a crucial role in shaping the future of transport. Scania actively supports the development and commercialization of these technologies through investments, partnerships, and internal initiatives.
Spintop Ventures
Spintop Ventures is an early-stage technology venture capital firm based in the Nordics. They support teams on a mission to build great companies that leverage innovative, software-based technology. A core aspect of their investment philosophy is to back ventures that contribute to a long-term sustainable society. The firm looks to partner with entrepreneurs targeting global opportunities and willing to disrupt existing structures. Spintop emphasizes the importance of company culture and values, seeking out investments in companies built on strong human values, respect for individuals, and a collaborative team spirit. They view their role as an active, supportive partner, working closely with portfolio companies throughout their journey while recognizing the entrepreneurs as the leaders of the venture. Their approach is centered on building lasting relationships that extend beyond the investment period. Their investment philosophy revolves around backing 'rebels with an implementable plan,' emphasizing technology-driven rapid growth. Spintop positions themselves as long-term partners, fostering relationships well before any investment occurs and maintaining these connections throughout and beyond their formal engagement as investors. They leverage a network of proven entrepreneurs and executives from the technology sector to provide invaluable knowledge, experiences, and contact networks.
Stena Sessan
Stena Sessan focuses on creating long-term value through responsible investments in companies with development opportunities for future generations. The firm aims to be a long-term owner, supporting companies in their growth journey. The core strategy is centered around making investments that are sustainable and contribute positively to society, ensuring value creation for years to come. The investment approach emphasizes partnering with companies that have the potential for significant growth and positive impact, aligning their financial goals with broader societal benefits.
Swedbank Robur
Swedbank Robur is Sweden's largest fund manager with a clear mission: to deliver long-term returns while contributing to sustainable development. Their sustainability work began in the early 80s with the launch of their first environmental fund, and they aim to be a global leader in sustainable value creation. The firm actively exercises ownership in portfolio companies, voting on shareholder proposals and engaging in dialogues on climate, human rights, and corporate governance to strengthen the companies' long-term competitiveness and value creation. Their investment strategy involves a focus on active ownership and sustainability. They utilize tools like voting at shareholder meetings, participation in nomination committees, thematic dialogues, investor collaborations, and external engagement services to influence companies. They have thematic focus areas including climate, nature, human rights, and corporate governance, with dialogues conducted directly or through investor networks. Swedbank Robur also launches new funds that respond to evolving global dynamics, such as the Security and Defence fund, which invests in companies providing solutions for societal protection in areas like defense, cybersecurity, and civil preparedness, recognizing their growth potential amidst geopolitical tensions and cyber threats.
Södra Ädla
Södra Ädla is the investment arm of Södra, a forest owners’ association connecting thousands of forest owners in southern Sweden. Södra Ädla aims to capitalize on the changing landscape of forestry by investing in new business ideas, innovations, and solutions that accelerate the development of forestry in ways that benefit family-owned forests. Their goal is to build a diverse portfolio of investments that address opportunities and challenges within the forest sector, emphasizing startups and companies with business models contributing to the growth and profitability of forestry. They are particularly interested in companies with strong economic potential in the early stages of launching or expanding their sales. Södra Ädla prioritizes investments in areas such as new technology for more efficient forestry, gentle forest management methods, decision support tools for planning and action, solutions benefiting biodiversity, and services addressing climate change. The firm actively seeks co-investors who share their vision of innovative, future-proof forestry to accelerate growth, increase market impact, and ensure long-term profitability. Södra Ädla offers more than just capital; they offer expertise, Södra’s strong industry position, and access to a vast network of over 50,000 family forest owners. With 80 years of experience in small-scale forestry and a world-class industrial structure, they are positioned to help portfolio companies innovate and grow for the future of forestry. Södra Ädla aims to be a committed investment partner dedicated to helping companies scale their business within the forestry sector.
Tagehus
Tagehus invests in long-term, value-adding assets across real estate, wellness, and construction sectors. The firm emphasizes sustainable growth, digitalization (via Longrun Capital), and strategic partnerships (e.g., Hemtag for bathing/fitness infrastructure). Key focus areas include listed companies (e.g., Atrium Ljungberg, John Mattson), real estate development, and impact-driven ventures with climate and diversity goals.