
BackBone Ventures
Description
BackBone Ventures is a Swiss venture capital firm based in Zurich, specializing in early-stage investments, primarily at the Seed and Pre-Series A stages. The firm focuses on innovative companies developing disruptive technologies and business models, with a particular emphasis on Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Foodtech, and other high-impact sectors. While their primary geographic focus is on Switzerland, they also actively invest in promising startups across Europe, seeking out ambitious founders with strong visions.
Their investment thesis centers on identifying companies that are not only technologically advanced but also possess the potential for significant market disruption and sustainable growth. BackBone Ventures is known for its hands-on approach, aiming to provide more than just capital by leveraging its network and expertise to support portfolio companies through their critical early growth phases. They are particularly keen on ventures that demonstrate a clear path to scalability and a positive societal or environmental impact, especially within the rapidly evolving Foodtech landscape.
BackBone Ventures typically deploys first checks ranging from approximately $290,000 to $1,740,000 (CHF 250,000 to CHF 1,500,000). Beyond initial investments, the firm commits to supporting its portfolio companies through subsequent funding rounds, with the capacity to provide follow-on investments of up to approximately $5,800,000 (CHF 5,000,000) per company. This strategic approach allows them to foster long-term partnerships and contribute significantly to the development of their portfolio, which currently includes over 20 companies across various sectors.
Investor Profile
BackBone Ventures has backed more than 52 startups, with 9 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 14 rounds, about 27% of its total and boasts 3 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Seed, Pre Seed, Series A rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in Switzerland, Germany, Israel.
- Strong thematic focus on Software, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Information Technology.
- Led 3 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $290K – $1.7M.
Stage Focus
- Seed (40%)
- Pre Seed (27%)
- Series A (13%)
- Convertible Note (8%)
- Series Unknown (6%)
- Series C (2%)
- Angel (2%)
- Series B (2%)
Country Focus
- Switzerland (50%)
- Germany (25%)
- Israel (8%)
- Austria (6%)
- United States (4%)
- Mexico (2%)
- Lebanon (2%)
- United Kingdom (2%)
- France (2%)
Industry Focus
- Software
- Artificial Intelligence (Ai)
- Information Technology
- Financial Services
- Food And Beverage
- E-commerce
- Health Care
- Robotics
- Fintech
- Saas
Frequently Asked Questions
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