Venture Capital in NRW Report - An analysis of the local investor ecosystem (in German)

Venture Capital (VC) is an important source of financing for young, innovative companies with high growth potential, which has gained significance in recent years. VC investors not only offer startups capital but also valuable know-how, access to network contacts, and strategic support for scaling. In North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), the number of VC funds has increased significantly in recent years, paralleling the growth of the local startup scene.

Today, NRW, along with Berlin and Bavaria, is one of the top three locations for venture capital investors in Germany. The investors include not only traditional private and public VC funds but also company-affiliated VC investors, known as corporate VCs or CVCs. Additionally, private investment firms by individuals or groups that invest in early and growth-stage companies are also part of the landscape.

This report (German language) provides an overview of the current VC scene in NRW and its development over the past 25 years. Data collection took place in June 2024. Additionally, it includes a selection of key players and success factors within this period. The basis of the report is research conducted by Cusp Capital, where more than 100 active investors were surveyed about their thematic focus, location, and investment phases.

As a team, we hope that this report helps make the economic factor of venture capital in NRW more tangible and strengthens its perception in the general awareness.

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