The Concept of Reverse VC Pitch
Philipp Kövener, from Germany Trade and Invest, kicked off the event by introducing the innovative format. Instead of the usual scenario where startups pitch to VCs, here it was the venture capitalists who laid out their strategies and criteria for potential investments. Kövener encouraged participants to challenge the VCs and ask tough questions, highlighting that this event was an excellent opportunity to understand what makes these investors tick.
Systemic Capital: Driving Climate Tech with Innovation
First to present was Jasper Wigley from Systemic Capital, an investor with a mission to drive climate tech forward. Wigley’s fund focuses on climate-driven solutions, emphasizing the urgency of investing in innovative technologies that can combat climate change. What sets Systemic Capital apart is its unique approach, leveraging its connection to Systemic Limited, a climate consulting firm, which gives it access to deep insights and networks within the industry. Wigley stressed the importance of finding the right talent, supporting breakthroughs in biotech, electrification, and AI, and avoiding projects with high capital expenditure in favor of commercially viable ones.
He went on to explain the critical role that industrial biotech and advancements in AI play in helping reduce the global carbon footprint, showcasing how these technological breakthroughs can create scalable solutions to global climate challenges. For any startup working in climate tech, Wigley’s message was clear: commercial success combined with environmental impact is the key to securing investment.
Oxx: B2B SaaS Excellence in Europe
Next was Toby Lywood of Oxx, a venture firm specializing in B2B SaaS companies across Europe. Lywood's pitch was a masterclass in how to identify strong technical communities and market potential within Europe, making it a lucrative region for investments. Oxx looks for startups with early signs of product-market fit and the potential for growth, with flexibility in terms of ARR thresholds.
What stood out from his presentation was Oxx's approach to portfolio management. With a lower ratio of portfolio companies to investment team members, Oxx is able to offer highly tailored support, including help with go-to-market strategies and international expansion. He provided examples from the Oxx portfolio, illustrating how the firm’s operational expertise can help startups scale quickly across Europe.
Wildstar Capital: Supporting Global Growth
The final presentation was from Friederike of Wildstar Capital, who gave an in-depth overview of her firm’s global presence and early growth stage focus. Wildstar Capital’s investment strategy emphasizes thematic alignment and scalable business models, with a keen interest in sectors ranging from fintech to healthcare. With offices in North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, Wildstar’s international reach is a huge asset for startups looking to expand globally.
Friederike highlighted how Wildstar Capital offers more than just financial backing; they assist startups with everything from brand positioning to strategic partnerships. She gave a real-world example of how they helped a startup partner with L’Oreal to break into a new market, showing their hands-on approach to internationalization.
A Positive VC Market Outlook
After the presentations, attention turned to the current state of the venture capital market. Despite recent uncertainties, all three VCs conveyed a sense of optimism about the future. They highlighted the increasing importance of a global presence and robust networks, particularly for startups targeting international growth.
As a result of the Reverse VC Pitch, several startups and VCs began discussions, with many staying in contact after the event. Over half of the participating VCs later shared that they had benefited from the experience. The general agreement was that startups with a clear vision, adaptability, and strong leadership are poised to succeed in an evolving market.
Final Thoughts: A Rare Glimpse into VC Decision-Making
The Reverse VC Pitch event provided startups with valuable insights directly from venture capitalists. It highlighted the importance of understanding not only financials but also the thematic alignment, growth potential, and market positioning that VCs prioritize. As Philipp Kövener concluded, these connections could lay the foundation for long-term, successful partnerships between startups and VCs. This event was more than just a pitch—it was a platform for building relationships that could fuel the next generation of startup success.
