VARM closes seven-figure pre-seed round

The start-up VARM has received seven-figure pre-seed funding to promote the insulation of single-family homes in Germany. The aim is to increase energy efficiency and reduce the carbon footprint.

Berlin, October 5, 2023: The startup VARM has received seven-figure pre-seed funding from Foundamental and A/O. The strategic investors include the founders of Thermondo, a German central heating specialist, and ecoworks, a construction and technology solutions company. The funds will be used to build the technological infrastructure for cavity wall insulation and to expand VARM in Germany.

One of the most effective ways to decarbonize Europe is to improve the existing building stock through insulation. Unfortunately, this solution is often overlooked. We are accelerating the transition to climate neutrality by providing homeowners with everything they need to insulate their homes safely and cost-effectively.

Christian Gruener, co-founder of VARM

In the European Union, 35% of energy-related emissions are attributable to the built environment, with 75% of buildings considered energy inefficient. VARM aims to make it easier for homeowners to access insulation to lower their energy costs and reduce their carbon footprint. The company plans to insulate one million homes in Germany over the next 10 years.

Tens of millions of buildings need to be retrofitted to remain economical and climate-friendly. Christian and Sebastian have found a clever way to industrialize the retrofitting of buildings with their technology and process.

Patric Hellermann, General Partner at Foundamental

VARM focuses on single-family homes, where there is an urgent need to improve energy efficiency. However, the company also plans to tap into the multi-family housing market in order to comply with EU zero-emission regulations by 2050.

To accelerate the transition to sustainable heat sources, VARM is training people to become insulation experts. This will accelerate the delivery of the right skills in insulation to overcome the skills gaps that are affecting not only the insulation but also the solar and heat pump sectors.

We can't decarbonize the built world without retrofitting the existing building stock, and upgrading insulation is often the most efficient way to do this.

Gregory Dewerpe, General Partner and founder of A/O

Founded by second founders Christian Gruener (longevity products start-up Vitalon) and Sebastian Wuerz (co-living start-up homefully), VARM is a one-stop-shop solution for insulating buildings with cavity wall insulation. VARM is currently focusing on the Berlin region, where homeowners can use VARM to get a quote, apply for funding and have their insulation installed by qualified VARM insulation experts. By digitizing the customer experience, breaking down costs and improving access to qualified installers, VARM aims to insulate one million homes in the next 10 years.