VARM closes seven-figure pre-seed round

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

Berlin, October 5, 2023: Startup VARM has received seven-figure pre-founding funding from Foundamental and A/O. 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 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 carbon 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 due to the built environment, with 75% of buildings considered energy inefficient. VARM aims to help homeowners 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 will need to be retrofitted to remain economical and climate-friendly. Christian and Sebastian have found a clever way to industrialize building retrofits with their technology and process.

Patric Hellermann, General Partner at Foundamental

VARM focuses on single-family homes because there is an urgent need to improve energy efficiency. However, the company also plans to tap into the multifamily market to meet EU zero-emissions regulations by 2050.

To accelerate the shift to sustainable heat sources, VARM is training people to become insulation experts. This accelerates the delivery of the right skills in insulation to overcome the capability gaps that affect not only 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 that.

Gregory Dewerpe, General Partner and Founder of A/O

Founded by second-time founders Christian Gruener (longevity products startup Vitalon) and Sebastian Wuerz (co-living startup homefully), VARM is a one-stop-shop solution for cavity wall insulation in buildings. Currently, VARM is focused 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.