
Lifeline Ventures
Description
Lifeline Ventures is a prominent early-stage venture capital firm based in Helsinki, Finland, established in 2009. Known for its team of serial entrepreneurs, the firm leverages its deep operational experience to identify and support promising startups, primarily as the first institutional investor. Lifeline Ventures has cemented its position as one of the most active and influential early-stage investors in the Nordic region, playing a crucial role in the development of the local startup ecosystem. Their investment philosophy is rooted in backing founders with strong teams and disruptive ideas, often in sectors where the partners themselves have significant expertise.
The firm's investment strategy is highly focused on early-stage companies across a diverse range of high-growth sectors, including deep tech, health, consumer applications, and gaming. Lifeline Ventures typically provides initial investments ranging from approximately $108,000 to $5.4 million, with a capacity for substantial follow-on funding to support portfolio companies through subsequent growth stages. This approach allows them to build long-term relationships with founders, offering not just capital but also strategic guidance, mentorship, and access to their extensive network. Their hands-on, founder-friendly approach is a hallmark of their investment style, aiming to be true partners in the entrepreneurial journey.
Lifeline Ventures has successfully raised multiple funds, demonstrating consistent growth and investor confidence. Their most recent fund, Lifeline Ventures Fund VII, closed in 2023 with a substantial €150 million, following the €130 million close of Fund VI in 2021. These significant capital pools enable the firm to maintain its active investment pace and support a growing portfolio. The firm boasts an impressive track record, having invested in over 100 companies, including several globally recognized success stories such as mobile gaming giant Supercell, food delivery platform Wolt, health tech innovator Oura, and satellite technology leader ICEYE.
Overall, Lifeline Ventures stands out as a cornerstone of the Nordic startup landscape. Its combination of experienced entrepreneurial partners, strategic sector focus, substantial funding capacity, and a proven track record of backing market leaders positions it as a highly sought-after partner for early-stage founders. The firm continues to be a driving force in fostering innovation and scaling technology companies from the Nordics onto the global stage.
Investor Profile
Lifeline Ventures has backed more than 175 startups, with 15 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 62 rounds, about 35% of its total and boasts 19 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Seed, Series A, Series Unknown rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in Finland, United States, United Kingdom.
- Strong thematic focus on Software, Health Care, Apps.
- Led 7 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $108K – $5.4M.
Stage Focus
- Seed (49%)
- Series A (15%)
- Series Unknown (14%)
- Series B (7%)
- Pre Seed (6%)
- Series C (3%)
- Angel (2%)
- Convertible Note (2%)
- Grant (1%)
- Series D (1%)
Country Focus
- Finland (74%)
- United States (13%)
- United Kingdom (5%)
- Hungary (2%)
- Denmark (1%)
- Ireland (1%)
- Germany (1%)
- Singapore (1%)
- Norway (1%)
- United Arab Emirates (1%)
Industry Focus
- Software
- Health Care
- Apps
- Biotechnology
- E-commerce
- Marketplace
- Information Technology
- Artificial Intelligence (Ai)
- Hardware
- Medical
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn who this investor regularly partners with—both firms and angels—and explore their latest activity.