Copenhagen-based The Footprint Firm has announced the final closing of its $89 million venture fund, Footprint Fund I. This Article 9 fund is dedicated to accelerating the green transition by investing in early-stage deeptech companies across Northern Europe. The firm distinguishes itself with an integrated model that combines capital investment with extensive, hands-on advisory support for its portfolio companies.
A New Model for Venture Capital
Footprint Fund I targets sectors crucial for sustainability, including biotechnology, energy, AI-powered climate tech, and circular manufacturing. Having already invested in 20 of its planned 30 startups, the portfolio includes innovators like Reel Energy, Kvasir Technologies, and Nordic Salt Cycle. The fund's investment tickets typically range from $591K to $2.3 million, focusing on pre-seed and seed-stage ventures.
The firm’s unique approach provides portfolio companies with more than just capital, offering access to a team of 45 in-house specialists. Co-founding Partner Christian Sparrevohn notes this model allows for significantly more expertise in areas like regulation, commercialization, and scaling than traditional VC setups. This hands-on partnership is designed to navigate the complex challenges inherent in sustainable innovation and ensure both impact and financial returns.
Strategic Backing and Market Positioning
The fund has attracted a formidable group of Danish institutional investors and family offices, including Novo Holdings, EIFO, Realdania, and Chr. Augustinus Fabrikker. Managing Partner Jakob Mathias Wichmann stated the closing reflects a strong alignment with investors who value disciplined investing and deep sustainability expertise. This backing validates the firm's integrated approach and long-term partnership model, sharpening its platform and ambitions for future growth.
The launch of Footprint Fund I aligns with a broader European trend of capital flowing into specialized climate and deeptech investment vehicles. While larger funds operate in the space, this $89 million fund represents a significant contribution to the mid-sized, specialist category. It complements the ecosystem by providing crucial early-stage capital for the green transition, filling a vital niche in the market.
Mission-Driven Investment and Future Outlook
Co-founding Partner and CEO Anna Søndergaard emphasized the firm's mission is to "accelerate what is necessary" for a sustainable future. She highlighted that Europe possesses the talent and industrial base to create world-leading climate solutions. The Footprint Firm aims to catalyze this potential by providing funding, ecosystem support, and its extensive network to promising teams.
Beyond financial and environmental metrics, the firm integrates Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) as a core value-creation strategy. Chief Investment Officer Sofie Käll explained their approach includes practical support for portfolio companies through the "First Footprints" initiative. This program offers toolkits for inclusive recruitment, psychological safety, and building a healthy feedback culture to foster resilience and sustainable performance.
The successful closing of Footprint Fund I marks a significant milestone for The Footprint Firm, solidifying its position as a key catalyst for sustainable innovation in Northern Europe. With a proven integrated model and strong investor backing, the firm is well-equipped to nurture its growing portfolio. This achievement paves the way for scaling its operations and preparing for future funds built on the same impactful foundation.