Shape VC

Shape VC is a newly established venture capital fund based in Kraków, Poland, with a distinct focus on early-stage companies that possess significant research and development (R&D) components. Launched in early 2024, the fund aims to support ambitious founders who are building innovative solutions with the potential for global impact. Their investment thesis is centered around deep technology, encompassing a broad spectrum of cutting-edge fields.

The fund specifically targets companies operating in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), biotechnology, robotics, new materials, and quantum computing, among other emerging technologies. Shape VC has a substantial capital base, managing a total fund size of €40 million, which translates to approximately $43.5 million USD. This capital is backed by a combination of the European Investment Fund (EIF) and private investors, underscoring a robust financial foundation and strategic alignment with European innovation initiatives.

Shape VC primarily invests in pre-seed, seed, and pre-Series A rounds, indicating a commitment to nurturing companies from their foundational stages. Their typical first cheque size ranges from €250,000 to €2 million. In USD terms, this means initial investments fall between approximately $271,750 and $2.17 million. The fund is prepared to make follow-on investments in subsequent funding rounds, demonstrating a long-term partnership approach with its portfolio companies. This strategic flexibility allows Shape VC to provide continuous support as its portfolio companies scale and mature.

The team at Shape VC, including Managing Partner Maciej Balsewicz and Partners Michał Olszewski and Marcin Szeląg, brings expertise to identify and cultivate high-potential deep tech ventures. Their emphasis on strong R&D, coupled with a scalable business model and a clear vision, positions Shape VC as a key player in the Central and Eastern European deep tech ecosystem, seeking to transform groundbreaking research into market-ready solutions.