NRW.BANK invests EUR 10 million in early-stage fund VORNvc

NRW.BANK invests EUR 10 million in the first closing of the new early-stage and growth fund VORNvc. The venture capital fund has raised a total of more than EUR 32 million and is aimed specifically at technology-oriented start-ups from the eastern Ruhr region. The aim is to support young companies that actively contribute to the economic transformation of the region with their products or services.

Experienced team behind VORNvc

The management team behind VORNvc consists of four partners who have already set up three successful fund generations with SeedCapital Dortmund. The fund is managed by Lars Hane and Nico Hemmann, who emphasize that the fund has a broad investor base from five regional savings banks with a reach as far as South Westphalia. Other entrepreneurs have also participated as investors.

Transformation needs innovation - and innovation needs capital.

Johanna Antonie Tjaden-Schulte, Member of the Managing Board of NRW.BANK

Combination of capital, network and regional proximity

VORNvc sees itself not only as an investor, but also as a bridge builder between start-ups and established SMEs. In addition to financial resources, founders also gain access to relevant networks and additional expertise. The investor structure allows the fund to connect portfolio companies with potential customers in the region in a targeted manner.

Target volume of 50 million euros

In the long term, VORNvc plans to increase the fund volume to 50 million euros. Further commitments from savings banks and companies from the region are to follow. NRW.BANK sees its participation as part of its transformation strategy.