
HCVC
Description
HCVC, formerly known as Hardware Club, is a prominent early-stage venture capital firm with dual headquarters in Paris, France, and San Francisco, USA. The firm specializes in investing in companies that are actively automating and digitizing the physical world. Their investment thesis centers on deep technology and industrial innovation, spanning sectors such as robotics, artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, new materials, and sustainable technologies.
HCVC primarily targets Pre-Seed, Seed, and Series A rounds, positioning itself as a crucial early partner for ambitious startups. They are known for providing not just capital, but also significant operational support and access to a global network of industry experts, manufacturers, and distribution channels. This hands-on approach is designed to help founders navigate the complexities of bringing physical products and deep tech solutions to market. Their typical initial check sizes range from $500,000 to $2.5 million, reflecting their commitment to foundational rounds.
The firm boasts a substantial track record, having invested in over 100 companies across 15 countries since its inception. This extensive portfolio underscores their global reach and diverse investment strategy. Furthermore, HCVC's portfolio companies have collectively demonstrated significant fundraising success, securing over $1.5 billion in follow-on funding from various investors. Their latest fund, Fund III, has a target size of €75 million (approximately $80 million USD), indicating continued growth and capacity for future investments in the deep tech ecosystem.
Investor Profile
HCVC has backed more than 82 startups, with 10 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 19 rounds, about 23% of its total and boasts 6 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Seed, Series A, Pre Seed rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in United States, France, United Kingdom.
- Strong thematic focus on Software, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics.
- Led 2 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $500K – $2.5M.
Stage Focus
- Seed (52%)
- Series A (22%)
- Pre Seed (12%)
- Series Unknown (5%)
- Series B (5%)
- Convertible Note (2%)
- Series C (1%)
Country Focus
- United States (44%)
- France (17%)
- United Kingdom (11%)
- Belgium (7%)
- Germany (5%)
- Greece (4%)
- Croatia (4%)
- Switzerland (2%)
- Sweden (1%)
- Austria (1%)
Industry Focus
- Software
- Artificial Intelligence (Ai)
- Robotics
- Machine Learning
- Hardware
- Internet Of Things
- Information Technology
- Biotechnology
- Health Care
- Mobile
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