Summary of Dutch clean energy investor SET Ventures lands new €200 million fund, which will go toward digital tech | TechCrunch

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    SET Ventures Raises €200 Million for Climate Tech Venture Capital Fund

    SET Ventures, a Dutch venture capital firm focused on climate tech, has announced the closing of its fourth fund at €200 million. This marks a significant milestone for the firm, as the new fund is twice the size of its previous one, reflecting the increasing investor interest in climate change solutions.

    • SET Ventures specializes in investing in European startups developing renewable energy and sustainable energy solutions.
    • The fund's goal is to support 20 to 25 startups that are working to make renewable energy more mainstream.
    • The firm's focus is on Series A investments, with initial checks ranging from €2 million to €5 million.

    Focus on Digital Climate Tech Solutions

    SET Ventures has evolved its investment thesis over the years, emphasizing the crucial role of digital technologies in the energy transition. The firm believes that software plays a critical role in driving adoption and scaling climate solutions.

    • The firm's strategy is to invest in digital technologies that enable a carbon-free energy system.
    • SET Ventures believes that hardware alone is insufficient to achieve climate goals and that software solutions are needed to accelerate the transition.
    • The firm is looking for startups that are leveraging AI, automation, and other software innovations to address climate challenges.

    SET Ventures' Investment Strategy

    SET Ventures emphasizes making Series A investments and plans to avoid making late-stage investments, except for follow-ons. The firm's focus on Series A allows them to support early-stage startups with high potential.

    • SET Ventures believes that its sweet spot is Series A investments, where they can provide significant support and expertise to early-stage companies.
    • This strategy allows the firm to identify and nurture promising startups with strong potential for growth.
    • The firm's commitment to early-stage investments is key to its mission of supporting the development of innovative solutions for a sustainable future.

    SET Ventures' Track Record

    SET Ventures has a strong track record of investing in successful climate-focused startups in Europe. The firm's expertise and commitment to sustainability have attracted significant capital from both corporate and institutional investors.

    • SET Ventures has a long history of investing in European climate tech startups, demonstrating its commitment to the sector.
    • The firm's Article 9 status, which requires a commitment to sustainability, has attracted investors seeking to align their portfolios with climate goals.
    • SET Ventures' experience and expertise in the climate tech space have made it a trusted partner for startups and investors alike.

    Expansion and Geographic Coverage

    SET Ventures is expanding its operations to broaden its geographic coverage. The firm recently opened an office in Germany, complementing its existing office in Amsterdam.

    • The firm has historically focused investments in the Netherlands, U.K. and DACH region, but plans to expand its reach across Europe.
    • The new fund will enable SET Ventures to invest in a wider range of startups across Europe, fostering innovation and accelerating the energy transition.
    • SET Ventures believes that its expanded geographic presence will allow it to identify and support even more promising climate tech startups.

    SET Ventures' Vision for the Future

    SET Ventures envisions a future where digital technologies are driving the transition to a sustainable energy system. The firm believes that innovation and entrepreneurship are key to achieving this vision.

    • SET Ventures sees a significant opportunity for startups to play a leading role in tackling climate change through the development of innovative technologies.
    • The firm is committed to supporting entrepreneurs who are driving the energy transition through their work in clean energy and renewable energy technologies.
    • SET Ventures' investment strategy is focused on supporting the development of the next generation of climate tech leaders.

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