HTGF | High-Tech Gruenderfonds

The seed investor High-Tech Gründerfonds (HTGF) finances tech start-ups with growth potential and has supported more than 700 start-ups since 2005. With the launch of its fourth fund, HTGF now has about 1.4 billion euros under management. Its team of experienced investment managers and start-up experts support young companies with expertise, entrepreneurial spirit and passion. HTGF’s focus is on high-tech start-ups in the fields of digital tech, industrial tech, life sciences, chemistry and related business areas. To date, external investors have injected about 5 billion euros of capital into the HTGF portfolio via more than 2,000 follow-on financing rounds. In addition, HTGF has already successfully sold shares in more than 170 companies. Fund investors in this public-private partnership include the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, KfW Capital and 45 companies from a wide range of industries. Fund investors in this public-private partnership include the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, KfW Capital and 45 companies from a wide range of industries.

Kay Balster

Senior Investment Manager

Jens Baumgärtner

Senior Investment Manager

Caßing, Anke

Principal

Tanja Emmerling

Partner / Head HTGF Berlin

Caroline Fichtner

Senior Investment Manager

Yann Fiebig

Investment Manager

Alex Von Frankenberg

Managing Director and Founder

Bernd Goergen

Partner

Hensel, Frank

Senior Investment Manager

Markus Kressmann

Partner

Lena Krzyzak

Principal

Kügler, Maurice

Investment Manager

Klaus Lehmann

Senior Investment Manager

Dominik Lohle

Senior Investment Manager

MacDonald, Curtis

Venture Partner

Andreas Olmes

Partner

Katharina Peters

Investment Manager

Martin Pfister

Senior Investment Manager

Claudia Raber

Partner

Guido Schlitzer

Managing Director

Ulrich Schmitt

Principal

Romy Schnelle

Partner

Clemens Von Bergmann

Investment Director

Axel Nitsch

Investment Manager

Tobias Schulz

Principal

Past deals in Renewables

Sunvigo

Venture Round in 2022
Sunvigo provides you with cheap solar power from your roof and real green power from the grid.

INERATEC

Series A in 2022
INERATEC is a company dedicated to developing sustainable energy solutions through the production of innovative synthetic fuels and power-to-X plants. By focusing on replacing fossil fuels with carbon-neutral alternatives, INERATEC aims to contribute to a post-fossil fuel economy. The company specializes in generating renewable hydrogen and converting greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and hydrogen, into various synthetic products, including e-kerosene, carbon dioxide-neutral diesel, synthetic waxes, and methanol. These products enable chemical plant operators to utilize synthetic fuels, which are derived from climate-neutral energy sources, thereby minimizing chemical waste and enhancing climate protection.

Sunvigo

Venture Round in 2021
Sunvigo provides you with cheap solar power from your roof and real green power from the grid.

Sunvigo

Seed Round in 2020
Sunvigo provides you with cheap solar power from your roof and real green power from the grid.

ZE Energy

Seed Round in 2020
ZE Energy is provides a hybrid solar plant solution featuring energy storage capabilities and photovoltaics. Equipped with a battery that stores the solar energy generated throughout the day, its power plants boast the advantages of solar power in terms of production costs, integration to the environment and power grid, as well as the generation of zero CO2 emissions.

envelio

Series A in 2019
envelio GmbH, founded in 2017 and based in Cologne, Germany, specializes in developing software and algorithms aimed at enhancing the planning and operation of energy networks. Its primary offering, the Intelligent Grid Platform (IGP), serves as a modular software solution that assists distribution grid operators in digitizing and automating their processes. The IGP includes applications for data quality, grid planning, and grid operation, which help identify and rectify data inconsistencies and optimize congestion management. By leveraging artificial intelligence and mathematical optimization, envelio’s platform supports the integration of numerous distributed energy resources and smart meter data, enabling grid operators to manage the complexities of modern power grids while facilitating a smoother energy transition.

Volterion

Series A in 2018
Volterion, founded in 2015 as a spin-off from the Fraunhofer Institute UMSICHT, specializes in the development and manufacturing of redox-flow battery stacks and systems aimed at commercial bulk energy storage. The company focuses on creating efficient energy converters that serve as the foundation for scalable and compact battery solutions, such as the powerRFB, which meets rigorous industrial standards. Volterion employs patented materials and advanced manufacturing processes, including fully automated systems for producing welded and seal-less stacks. This technology enables both private users and power suppliers to optimize the use of self-generated renewable energy while providing cost-effective and durable storage solutions. The founders, Sascha Berthold, Thomas Gebauer, and Thorsten Seipp, alongside management member Kees van de Kerk, have been instrumental in the company's technological advancements. Volterion has garnered multiple accolades for its innovative technology and business model, reinforcing its position within the energy storage sector.

INERATEC

Seed Round in 2018
INERATEC is a company dedicated to developing sustainable energy solutions through the production of innovative synthetic fuels and power-to-X plants. By focusing on replacing fossil fuels with carbon-neutral alternatives, INERATEC aims to contribute to a post-fossil fuel economy. The company specializes in generating renewable hydrogen and converting greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and hydrogen, into various synthetic products, including e-kerosene, carbon dioxide-neutral diesel, synthetic waxes, and methanol. These products enable chemical plant operators to utilize synthetic fuels, which are derived from climate-neutral energy sources, thereby minimizing chemical waste and enhancing climate protection.

envelio

Seed Round in 2018
envelio GmbH, founded in 2017 and based in Cologne, Germany, specializes in developing software and algorithms aimed at enhancing the planning and operation of energy networks. Its primary offering, the Intelligent Grid Platform (IGP), serves as a modular software solution that assists distribution grid operators in digitizing and automating their processes. The IGP includes applications for data quality, grid planning, and grid operation, which help identify and rectify data inconsistencies and optimize congestion management. By leveraging artificial intelligence and mathematical optimization, envelio’s platform supports the integration of numerous distributed energy resources and smart meter data, enabling grid operators to manage the complexities of modern power grids while facilitating a smoother energy transition.

Resourcify

Venture Round in 2018
Resourcify GmbH, founded in 2015 and based in Hamburg, Germany, operates a comprehensive cloud platform designed to streamline waste management and recycling operations for businesses. The platform offers features such as container pick-up and exchange services, waste collection information, and documentation generation, ensuring compliance with legal requirements. By digitizing waste management processes, Resourcify enables organizations to efficiently manage, track, and enhance their recycling efforts while significantly reducing administrative burdens and costs—reportedly by up to 40% compared to traditional methods. Trusted by leading companies across various sectors, Resourcify aims to foster a zero-waste future and improve sustainability practices through its innovative solutions, ultimately enhancing recycling rates and revenue from recyclable materials.

node.energy

Venture Round in 2017
node.energy builds SaaS solutions for the regulatory and commercial management of decentralized energy supply systems for commercial and industrial real estate. Our software massively reduces administrative workload, helps to save energy costs and ensure that our customers are always up to date and compliant to the current regulation.

Volterion

Series A in 2017
Volterion, founded in 2015 as a spin-off from the Fraunhofer Institute UMSICHT, specializes in the development and manufacturing of redox-flow battery stacks and systems aimed at commercial bulk energy storage. The company focuses on creating efficient energy converters that serve as the foundation for scalable and compact battery solutions, such as the powerRFB, which meets rigorous industrial standards. Volterion employs patented materials and advanced manufacturing processes, including fully automated systems for producing welded and seal-less stacks. This technology enables both private users and power suppliers to optimize the use of self-generated renewable energy while providing cost-effective and durable storage solutions. The founders, Sascha Berthold, Thomas Gebauer, and Thorsten Seipp, alongside management member Kees van de Kerk, have been instrumental in the company's technological advancements. Volterion has garnered multiple accolades for its innovative technology and business model, reinforcing its position within the energy storage sector.

Solandeo

Seed Round in 2015
Solandeo bietet Grünstromhändlern und Anlagenbetreibern kostengünstige und innovative Lösungen in den Bereichen Messstellenbetrieb, Messdienstleistung, Betrieb intelligenter Messsysteme, registrierende Leistungsmessung, Smart Metering, Fernwirktechnik, Fernsteuerung und die technische Aufrüstung von Windanlagen, Solaranlagen und Biomethan-Heizkraftanlagen.

OneShore

Seed Round in 2015
OneShore Energy is dedicated to the design, engineering, procurement, and construction of solar systems and solar-diesel hybrid power plants tailored for businesses. Founded in 2014 by Philipp Kunze, Sven Rawe, and Philipp Neff, the company aims to reduce fuel consumption and optimize energy use. OneShore offers advisory services that enhance the operational efficiency of energy systems, employing data logging and simulation software to analyze existing energy setups and predict the benefits of proposed hybrid installations. Additionally, OneShore provides a software suite that integrates customers' solar systems, enabling effective monitoring and management of energy consumption.

Heliatek

Series C in 2014
As the technology leader in organic photovoltaics, Heliatek develops, produces and distributes industrial-grade organic PV solar solutions for virtually any building surface (horizontal, vertical, curved, rigid, and flexible). Heliatek stands for energy solutions designed for various traditional and never been possible before applications based on its unique features – it is ultra-light, flexible and truly green. HeliaSol® is a ready-to-use solution, ideal for retrofitting on existing building structures. HeliaFilm® is tailor-made solar film for companies in the building and construction material industry, to integrate into their façade or roof system products. Heliatek currently employs about 160 people at the Dresden and Ulm locations in Germany. The Free State of Saxony, the Federal Republic of Germany, and the European Union funded research and development, as well as the installation of the production technology.

Customcells

Venture Round in 2013
CustomCells is an electronics manufacturing company specializing in the development and production of high-performance lithium-ion battery cells for various applications, including automotive and aviation. Founded in 2012, the company has established multiple development and production sites and is currently expanding its operations into the United States. CustomCells is recognized for its collaboration with notable partners, such as Lilium, for whom it manufactures pre-lithiated battery cells with exceptional power and energy ratings. The company also has a history of contributing to advanced projects, including its role as a technology provider for Porsche's Cellforce Group. Additionally, CustomCells is focused on integrating artificial intelligence into its production processes, enhancing efficiency and innovation in energy storage solutions. Its offerings include electrode foils, rechargeable accumulators, and battery systems tailored to various applications such as satellites, weather stations, and unmanned underwater vehicles.

Next Kraftwerke

Venture Round in 2013
Next Kraftwerke GmbH operates a large-scale virtual power plant (VPP) and serves as a certified power trader on various European energy exchanges, including EPEX and EEX. Founded in 2009 and based in Cologne, Germany, the company specializes in aggregating medium and small-scale power-producing units, such as bioenergy, wind, and solar energy sources, as well as power-consuming units across Central Europe. By digitally connecting these distributed units through remote access modules, Next Kraftwerke enables efficient data exchange between decentralized plants and its central control system. This integration allows for the smart trading of generated and consumed power, facilitating a flexible and renewable energy supply to European power markets.

Kiwigrid

Venture Round in 2013
Kiwigrid GmbH is a German company that develops and operates a smart grid energy management platform aimed at the European market. Founded in 2011 and based in Dresden, Kiwigrid focuses on optimizing energy systems by integrating decentralized energy producers, storage systems, intelligent measuring systems, and electric mobility charging solutions. Their offerings include an energy management system that monitors energy consumption in homes and industries, as well as tools for capturing metering data and enabling features like peak shifting. Additionally, Kiwigrid provides a virtual power plant system that facilitates energy trading and real-time data management. Their solutions are designed to enhance transparency in energy usage, automate processes, and help clients efficiently manage renewable energy resources, ultimately reducing costs and improving control over energy operations across various sectors, including utilities, automotive, and real estate.

Saperatec

Seed Round in 2013
Saperatec, founded in December 2010, is based in Bielefeld, where it operates comprehensive production facilities focused on the separation of bonded and coated materials. The company specializes in recycling technology that enables the processing of multi-layer materials into secondary raw materials. Utilizing both physical and chemical principles, Saperatec's innovative technology enhances the conversion of waste into recyclable materials, providing valuable recycling alternatives for various products. Additionally, the facility includes a laboratory dedicated to exploring and developing new technologies, further advancing the company's capabilities in the recycling sector.

Smart Hydro Power

Series A in 2012
Smart Hydro Power GmbH, founded in 2010 and based in Feldafing, Germany, specializes in the development and manufacturing of kinetic micro-hydro power plants and energy management systems. The company focuses on providing affordable and eco-friendly renewable energy solutions, particularly for remote or off-the-grid locations. Its product offerings include smart turbines and complete energy packages designed to facilitate decentralized electrification projects. Smart Hydro Power emphasizes simplicity and competitiveness in its designs, which are intended to enhance productivity for electricity providers while improving living standards in rural areas. The company’s hydropower plants are designed to be environmentally friendly and fish-friendly, requiring minimal infrastructure for installation.

Enercast

Series A in 2012
enercast GmbH specializes in renewable energy forecasting, offering software-as-a-service products that provide accurate power forecasts for wind and solar plants. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Kassel, Germany, the company enables the effective integration of renewable energy into power grids and energy markets globally. Its self-learning forecasting solutions deliver approximately 100 million data points across 20 countries, covering a total of 160 GW of installed capacity. Additionally, enercast develops the enercast city system, which serves as a dashboard displaying the predicted share of renewable energy from various sources. The company is committed to advancing the digital transformation of renewable energy through applied artificial intelligence and big data, supporting businesses in their decision-making processes.

Saperatec

Seed Round in 2011
Saperatec, founded in December 2010, is based in Bielefeld, where it operates comprehensive production facilities focused on the separation of bonded and coated materials. The company specializes in recycling technology that enables the processing of multi-layer materials into secondary raw materials. Utilizing both physical and chemical principles, Saperatec's innovative technology enhances the conversion of waste into recyclable materials, providing valuable recycling alternatives for various products. Additionally, the facility includes a laboratory dedicated to exploring and developing new technologies, further advancing the company's capabilities in the recycling sector.

Entelios

Series A in 2011
Entelios provides its clients with demand response and virtual power plant solutions. It was founded in 2010 and was acquired by EnerNOC in 2014.

WeSustain

Seed Round in 2010
WeSustain develops and sells web-based software for enterprise sustainability management. The company’s ESM software is a management support system that helps companies go green and manage products, processes, and technologies in an environment-friendly manner. WeSustain’s ESM software enables the clients to establish a software-supported ESM solution, as well as manage, improve, and report their ESM performance on a global basis while mitigating sustainability risks. The company was founded in 2010 and is based in Buxtehude, Germany.

Next Kraftwerke

Seed Round in 2010
Next Kraftwerke GmbH operates a large-scale virtual power plant (VPP) and serves as a certified power trader on various European energy exchanges, including EPEX and EEX. Founded in 2009 and based in Cologne, Germany, the company specializes in aggregating medium and small-scale power-producing units, such as bioenergy, wind, and solar energy sources, as well as power-consuming units across Central Europe. By digitally connecting these distributed units through remote access modules, Next Kraftwerke enables efficient data exchange between decentralized plants and its central control system. This integration allows for the smart trading of generated and consumed power, facilitating a flexible and renewable energy supply to European power markets.

Heliatek

Series B in 2009
As the technology leader in organic photovoltaics, Heliatek develops, produces and distributes industrial-grade organic PV solar solutions for virtually any building surface (horizontal, vertical, curved, rigid, and flexible). Heliatek stands for energy solutions designed for various traditional and never been possible before applications based on its unique features – it is ultra-light, flexible and truly green. HeliaSol® is a ready-to-use solution, ideal for retrofitting on existing building structures. HeliaFilm® is tailor-made solar film for companies in the building and construction material industry, to integrate into their façade or roof system products. Heliatek currently employs about 160 people at the Dresden and Ulm locations in Germany. The Free State of Saxony, the Federal Republic of Germany, and the European Union funded research and development, as well as the installation of the production technology.

enymotion

Venture Round in 2008
Enymotion specializes in the development and production of ultra-quiet, zero-emission mobile fuel cell systems designed for recreational applications such as caravans and boats. These systems provide a self-sufficient power supply, utilizing the caloric equivalent of conventional fuels or liquid gas to deliver energy without generating noise or exhaust. By offering a reliable battery backup solution for motor homes, sailing boats, and utility vehicles, Enymotion enables consumers to enjoy independent power consumption while minimizing environmental impact.

LaTherm

Series A in 2008
LaTherm specializes in providing low CO2 heating solutions and hot water systems to various sectors, including hospitals, schools, and commercial properties in Germany. The company focuses on collecting industrial waste heat from sources such as steel mills, chemical plants, and waste incinerators, which is typically released into the environment. This waste heat is captured in specially-equipped mobile heat storage containers and transported to medium-sized properties, where it is integrated into existing heating systems. By utilizing this method, LaTherm offers stable and predictable pricing for its heating services while promoting environmentally sustainable practices.

Heliatek

Seed Round in 2006
As the technology leader in organic photovoltaics, Heliatek develops, produces and distributes industrial-grade organic PV solar solutions for virtually any building surface (horizontal, vertical, curved, rigid, and flexible). Heliatek stands for energy solutions designed for various traditional and never been possible before applications based on its unique features – it is ultra-light, flexible and truly green. HeliaSol® is a ready-to-use solution, ideal for retrofitting on existing building structures. HeliaFilm® is tailor-made solar film for companies in the building and construction material industry, to integrate into their façade or roof system products. Heliatek currently employs about 160 people at the Dresden and Ulm locations in Germany. The Free State of Saxony, the Federal Republic of Germany, and the European Union funded research and development, as well as the installation of the production technology.
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