Hartenlust Group

Hartenlust Group represents the culmination of a long-standing vision between two university colleagues, Xeno Grimmelt and Jelle Elzinga, who first connected at Nyenrode University more than twenty years ago. This independent investment firm operates entirely on self-generated capital, embodying the founders' shared aspiration to create a vehicle for their combined expertise. After pursuing divergent professional journeys that equipped them with complementary skill sets across various industries, they reunited to establish an investment platform that authentically reflects their values.

The investment philosophy at Hartenlust centers around three core principles: fostering growth, encouraging creative solutions, and supporting entrepreneurial ventures. Unlike traditional venture capital firms constrained by limited partner agreements, their self-funded structure allows for greater flexibility in investment horizons and decision-making processes. This independence enables Grimmelt and Elzinga to take a more personalized approach with portfolio companies, often providing hands-on mentorship alongside financial backing.

With a diverse investment portfolio spanning early-stage startups to established businesses seeking growth capital, Hartenlust specializes in identifying unique opportunities that might be overlooked by conventional investment firms. Their combined background brings valuable perspective across technology, finance, consumer products, and service industries. The firm typically engages with companies where their operational experience and network can add substantial value beyond monetary investment, creating symbiotic relationships with entrepreneurs who share their vision for sustainable growth.

Beyond pure financial returns, Hartenlust evaluates potential investments through a lens of long-term value creation and meaningful impact. The founders maintain a deliberately focused portfolio, allowing them to dedicate significant attention to each venture. This approach has earned them a reputation for being thoughtful, engaged investors who genuinely understand the entrepreneurial journey from ideation through execution. Their investment strategy reflects a commitment to building lasting enterprises rather than pursuing quick exits, making them preferred partners for founders with similar long-term perspectives.