
Rabobank
Description
Rabobank, a leading global financial services provider with deep roots in the food and agribusiness sectors, extends its commitment to innovation through its dedicated venture capital arm, the Rabobank Food & Agri Innovation Fund (RFAIF). Established in 2018 with an initial commitment of $100 million, the RFAIF is strategically designed to invest in cutting-edge startups and scale-ups that are transforming the global food and agriculture value chain. This initiative underscores Rabobank's cooperative mission to contribute to a more sustainable and efficient food system worldwide, leveraging its extensive industry network and expertise.
The RFAIF primarily targets early-stage and growth-stage companies, typically participating in Series A and Series B funding rounds. The fund seeks out businesses with proven technologies and scalable business models that address critical challenges in the food and agri space. While the total round sizes can vary significantly, the RFAIF's typical first cheque investment ranges from approximately $1 million to $10 million, often co-investing alongside other reputable venture capital firms and strategic partners. This approach allows the fund to support a diverse portfolio of companies, from inception through significant growth phases.
The investment focus of the RFAIF is broad but specific to key areas of innovation within food and agriculture. These include sustainable farming practices, alternative proteins, food waste reduction technologies, supply chain optimization, and digital solutions enhancing efficiency and transparency. As of recent reports, the fund has made investments in over 20 companies, demonstrating its active role in fostering a vibrant ecosystem of agrifood tech innovation. By providing not only capital but also strategic guidance and access to Rabobank's vast network, the RFAIF aims to accelerate the development and adoption of solutions that contribute to global food security and environmental sustainability.
This strategic investment vehicle positions Rabobank as a significant player in the agrifood tech venture landscape, aligning its financial strength with its long-standing commitment to the sector. The fund's global mandate allows it to identify and support promising ventures across different geographies, further solidifying Rabobank's influence in shaping the future of food and agriculture.
Investor Profile
Rabobank has backed more than 160 startups, with 34 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 49 rounds, about 31% of its total and boasts 28 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Debt Financing, Seed, Post Ipo Debt rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in The Netherlands, United States, United Kingdom.
- Strong thematic focus on Renewable Energy, Energy, Solar.
- Led 10 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $1M – $10M.
Stage Focus
- Debt Financing (45%)
- Seed (16%)
- Post Ipo Debt (11%)
- Series Unknown (11%)
- Pre Seed (8%)
- Series A (4%)
- Private Equity (1%)
- Series B (1%)
- Series C (1%)
- Post Ipo Equity (1%)
Country Focus
- The Netherlands (50%)
- United States (19%)
- United Kingdom (5%)
- India (3%)
- Mexico (2%)
- Argentina (2%)
- Brazil (1%)
- Australia (1%)
- Sweden (1%)
- Israel (1%)
Industry Focus
- Renewable Energy
- Energy
- Solar
- Food And Beverage
- Agriculture
- Manufacturing
- Health Care
- E-commerce
- Food Processing
- Farming
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