Tengelmann Ventures

Tengelmann Ventures operates as an early-stage venture capital firm that has been supporting innovative entrepreneurs since its establishment in 2009. The firm has built its investment philosophy around three core missions: preserving life and environment, simplifying everyday life, and adapting products and services to meet evolving consumer needs. With a strong commitment to fostering sustainable business models, Tengelmann leverages its extensive industry expertise to identify promising startups with transformative potential.

Based in Germany, the firm maintains a strategic geographic focus on the DACH region (Germany, Austria, and Switzerland), where it has developed deep market insights and valuable business networks. Tengelmann Ventures typically engages with companies at seed and Series A stages, providing not only capital but also operational guidance and strategic support. Their hands-on approach to investment has helped numerous portfolio companies navigate early growth challenges and establish market leadership.

The investment team at Tengelmann Ventures demonstrates particular interest in consumer-centric business models across both B2C and B2B sectors. Their portfolio reflects investments in diverse industries including e-commerce, food technology, sustainability solutions, digital health, and innovative retail concepts. Notable investments have included companies like Delivery Hero, Zalando, and HelloFresh, which have grown into market leaders in their respective segments. This track record has established Tengelmann as a trusted partner for ambitious founders seeking both financial backing and strategic expertise.

As part of the broader Tengelmann Group, a family-owned international trading company with over 150 years of history, Tengelmann Ventures benefits from extensive corporate resources and industry connections. This heritage provides portfolio companies with unique advantages, including potential commercial partnerships and distribution channels. The firm's investment approach combines traditional venture capital methodology with long-term strategic vision, allowing them to support companies through multiple growth phases while maintaining alignment with founders' original missions and values.