Warsaw-based investment firm Montis VC has successfully launched a new venture capital fund, securing $57.5 million at its first close to back Europe's next generation of technology startups. The fund will strategically target early-stage companies developing solutions in energy transition, industrial transformation, and applied artificial intelligence. This initiative is supported by prominent institutional investors, including the European Investment Fund and the Polish Development Fund, highlighting a shared commitment to fostering innovation across the continent.
A Strategic Focus on Industrial and Energy Innovation
Montis VC plans to build a concentrated portfolio of 20 to 25 companies, focusing on the pre-seed and seed stages of development. Its investment thesis centers on what the team calls the "energy and industrial transition," which includes advancements in electrification, industrial automation, and AI applications in manufacturing and logistics. This strategy reflects a growing demand for technologies that enhance economic productivity and contribute to Europe's long-term competitiveness and energy security.
Building on a Proven Track Record
The new fund is an evolution of the team's previous work with Montis Capital, which has invested approximately $35 million in nine companies since 2019. That predecessor portfolio includes successful ventures such as the agri-food tech startup Fresh Inset and Micromobility Port, a leading last-mile logistics provider in the UK. With Montis VC, the team is scaling up its operations with larger investment tickets and a more proactive, pan-European approach.
Substantial Backing and Investment Capacity
The $57.5 million first close was anchored by the European Investment Fund through the REPowerEU programme, designed to accelerate energy security, alongside a $11.5 million commitment from the Polish Development Fund. The fund will deploy initial investments ranging from $0.5 million to $2.5 million and has reserved half of its capital for follow-on rounds to support its most promising companies. According to Partner Łukasz Dziekoński, this initial close is a starting point, with plans to scale the fund further.
Experienced Leadership and a Global Network
The firm is led by Managing Partners Łukasz Dziekoński, Wojciech Szwankowski, and Michał Gawęda, who bring a wealth of experience from their work at Montis Capital. Their expertise is complemented by a distinguished network of venture partners, including Taavi Rõivas, the former Prime Minister of Estonia, and renewable energy specialist Bart Dujczyński. This network is designed to support portfolio companies with deal sourcing, strategic advice, and global market expansion.
A Proactive, Founder-First Philosophy
Montis VC emphasizes a hands-on, founder-centric approach, positioning itself as an active partner rather than a passive investor. The team is committed to helping founders refine their strategy, expand internationally, and prepare for subsequent funding rounds. As Partner Wojciech Szwankowski stated, the goal is to help startups unlock Europe's exceptional technological potential and support projects with the ambition to transform entire sectors of the economy.
The establishment of Montis VC's $57.5 million fund represents a significant boost for Europe's deep-tech and industrial startup ecosystem, particularly within Central and Eastern Europe. With its clear focus on high-impact sectors, strong institutional backing, and an experienced team, the fund is poised to accelerate the growth of innovative companies. This initiative not only provides crucial early-stage capital but also reinforces the region's growing reputation as a hub for technological advancement.