Pierre Kosciusko-Morizet

Pierre Kosciusko-Morizet is a highly influential figure in the French digital ecosystem, renowned for his entrepreneurial success and subsequent transition into a prolific investor. He rose to prominence as the co-founder and CEO of PriceMinister, a pioneering French e-commerce marketplace. His strategic vision led to the company's significant growth and eventual acquisition by Rakuten in 2010 for a reported €200 million (approximately $216 million), marking one of the largest tech exits in France at the time. This entrepreneurial journey provided him with deep operational insights and a strong network, which he now leverages in his investment activities.

Following the PriceMinister acquisition, Kosciusko-Morizet co-founded Kernel Investissements with Pierre Krings, establishing it as his primary investment vehicle. Kernel Investissements primarily focuses on early-stage digital companies, typically participating in seed and Series A rounds. Their investment thesis centers on disruptive business models within sectors such as e-commerce, SaaS, marketplaces, and fintech, where Kosciusko-Morizet's firsthand experience is particularly valuable. The firm is known for its hands-on approach, providing not just capital but also strategic guidance and access to a vast network of industry contacts.

Kernel Investissements typically deploys initial checks ranging from approximately $200,000 to $2,000,000, though they have the capacity for larger follow-on investments in successful portfolio companies. Beyond capital, Kosciusko-Morizet is recognized for his ability to identify promising founders and help them navigate the complexities of scaling a digital business. His reputation as a seasoned operator and a founder-friendly investor makes him a sought-after partner for startups in the French tech scene, solidifying his position as a key enabler of innovation and growth.