
Specialist VC
Description
Specialist VC is a prominent venture capital firm based in Tallinn, Estonia, dedicated to supporting innovative founders across the Baltic states (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania), Finland, Ukraine, and Belarus. The firm primarily focuses on early-stage investments, targeting both Seed and Series A rounds. With a strategic emphasis on the region's burgeoning tech ecosystem, Specialist VC leverages its deep local expertise to identify and nurture high-potential startups. Their investment philosophy centers on providing not just capital but also strategic guidance and network access to help portfolio companies scale.
The firm manages a substantial portfolio, with over €100 million (approximately $108 million) in assets under management across multiple funds. A significant milestone for Specialist VC was the successful close of its latest vehicle, Specialist VC Fund III, in 2023, which secured €50 million (approximately $54 million) in commitments. This fund is specifically earmarked to continue their investment strategy in the aforementioned geographies and stages. Specialist VC is known for backing companies that demonstrate strong growth potential and innovative solutions, contributing to the development of the Northern European and Eastern European tech landscape.
Specialist VC's typical initial investment ranges from €250,000 to €2 million, translating to approximately $270,000 to $2.16 million, depending on the current exchange rate. This flexible approach allows them to engage with a wide spectrum of early-stage companies, from nascent startups seeking initial seed capital to more established firms ready for Series A growth. Their portfolio includes several regional success stories, highlighting their ability to identify and support future market leaders. The firm's commitment extends beyond the initial check, often participating in follow-on rounds to support the long-term growth trajectories of their portfolio companies.
Investor Profile
Specialist VC has backed more than 55 startups, with 6 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 20 rounds, about 36% of its total and boasts 3 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Seed, Pre Seed, Series Unknown rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in Estonia, United States, United Kingdom.
- Strong thematic focus on Software, Information Technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI).
- Led 2 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $270K – $2.2M.
Stage Focus
- Seed (45%)
- Pre Seed (27%)
- Series Unknown (11%)
- Series A (9%)
- Non Equity Assistance (2%)
- Angel (2%)
- Undisclosed (2%)
- Corporate Round (2%)
Country Focus
- Estonia (76%)
- United States (7%)
- United Kingdom (7%)
- Lithuania (4%)
- Finland (4%)
Industry Focus
- Software
- Information Technology
- Artificial Intelligence (Ai)
- Saas
- Fintech
- E-commerce
- Hospitality
- Rental
- Cleantech
- Greentech
Frequently Asked Questions
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