Venture Kick, a private philanthropic initiative, provides as much 150,000 Swiss francs in pre-seed funding to Swiss startups and offers structured, entrepreneurial training to build robust, winning businesses. Entrepreneurs pitch for finance as many as three times, as they compete for increasing amounts of funding at each stage. Founders gain direct feedback from the expert juries and access to an international network of successful entrepreneurs and investors. Venture Kick has supported 600 Swiss startup projects with 24.9 million francs to date. Supported projects have incorporated as 454 active companies, creating 6,033 jobs, and attracting 2.49 billion francs worth of subsequent investment. Companies founded by Venture Kick alums represented 55 percent of the TOP 100 Swiss Startup Award 2018. In 2019 Venture Kick will support idea-stage startup projects with 4.35 million francs, to bring Swiss science to global markets.

SICTIC is a non-profit association, which has a strong investor community and organizes the deal flow and matchmaking of startups and investors online and at pitching events. They have offices in Zürich, Lausanne and Ticino. Since 2018, SICTIC has become the largest and most active business angel network in Switzerland and was awarded “Best Performing EBAN Member 2018” from over 150 member organizations in more than 50 countries.

Zürcher Kantonalbank is an independent, incorporated public-law institution is its public service mandate. Enshrined in law, it governs the bank's economic, social, and environmental commitment.

Verve Ventures is a European startup investment platform based in Zug, Switzerland, that focuses on providing qualified and institutional investors access to high-potential ventures. Founded in 2010, the firm has invested over EUR 130 million in more than 140 startups across various sectors, including science, technology, clean energy, and digital health. It operates a fully digital platform allowing private investors to build diversified portfolios with investments starting at EUR 10,000. Verve Ventures boasts a community of 5,000 registered investors, including family offices and pension funds, and is backed by Zürcher Kantonalbank, one of Switzerland's largest banks. The firm employs a dedicated team of investment professionals who rigorously screen thousands of startups annually to select the top 1% for investment. Beyond capital, Verve Ventures supports startups with essential resources such as hiring and client introductions, facilitating their growth and success in competitive markets.

Swisscom is Switzerland's leading telecommunications and IT company, headquartered in Ittigen near Bern. As the incumbent telecom operator, Swisscom holds a significant market share in both mobile and fixed-line services, benefiting from a stable regulatory environment that allows it to maintain higher pricing compared to competitors. The company also has a notable presence in Italy through its subsidiary Fastweb, which is recognized as one of the largest broadband providers in the region. With approximately 21,500 employees, Swisscom focuses on delivering high-quality communication services and is committed to sustainability, being recognized as one of the most sustainable companies in Switzerland and Europe. Through its operations, Swisscom aims to leverage emerging technologies and business models, enhancing its core telecommunications services.

Fongit is a startup incubator and accelerator located in Geneva, Switzerland, established in 1991. The organization focuses on supporting high-tech ventures, including startups, scale-ups, and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that are experiencing rapid growth. Fongit collaborates with local research institutions, universities, and higher education establishments to foster innovation, particularly in the fields of information and communications technology (ICT), engineering, and life sciences. The incubator is committed to advancing technological innovations that align with Sustainable Development Goals, thereby promoting a sustainable future through entrepreneurial efforts.

MassChallenge is a global nonprofit startup accelerator headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, founded in 2009. It supports early-stage entrepreneurs from various industries, including technology, healthcare, and finance, by providing mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities. With locations in countries such as Israel, Mexico, Switzerland, and Texas, MassChallenge operates a non-equity model, allowing startups to retain full ownership while benefiting from expert guidance and connections. The accelerator conducts various programs tailored to specific sectors, such as MassChallenge HealthTech and MassChallenge FinTech, which facilitate partnerships between startups and established enterprises to drive innovation and market growth. Through its extensive global network, MassChallenge aims to strengthen the innovation ecosystem and empower high-potential startups to create meaningful impact.

The European Innovation Council (EIC), established in 2020 and headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, is dedicated to supporting high-potential innovators, entrepreneurs, small enterprises, and researchers. Its primary focus is on fostering early-stage startups that demonstrate significant environmental, social, and governance (ESG) impacts. The EIC collaborates with private investors to co-invest in ventures, particularly within the deep technology sector, aiming to drive innovation and sustainable development across Europe. By providing financial backing and resources, the EIC seeks to enhance the growth potential of promising startups and contribute to a more innovative and competitive European economy.

Founderful is a venture capital firm based in Zurich, Switzerland, that specializes in supporting pre-seed stage companies. Established in 2017, it focuses on the technology sector, aiming to identify and back promising tech entrepreneurs in Switzerland. Founderful is recognized for its founder-friendly approach, emphasizing quick and efficient investment processes to help startups become global market leaders. By providing essential resources and guidance, Founderful seeks to foster innovation and growth within the Swiss tech ecosystem.

VI Partners is a Swiss venture capital firm based in Altendorf, established in 2001. The firm specializes in early-stage and growth financing investments, primarily targeting the biotechnology, technology, health care, and software sectors. VI Partners focuses on supporting university spin-offs and other promising start-ups by providing them with capital, coaching, and access to valuable networks. The firm aims to bridge the gap between entrepreneurial aspirations and successful business outcomes, fostering partnerships with savvy investors to help nurture and grow innovative companies.

CV VC is a next generation investment company where cutting-edge blockchain and crypto technology meet traditional venture capital. Based in the heart of Switzerland’s Crypto Valley, the company invests in all stages of crypto and blockchain development, from incubation to growth capital and has its own thriving ecosystem. CV VC is the leading blockchain advisory team in Crypto Valley. It covers critical stages of start-up life, including business model development, technology assessment & token model, communication strategy, and attracting capital and strategic partnerships.

EASME is a European Union executive agency that supports small and medium-sized enterprises and promotes innovation in Europe. It manages projects in the areas of small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as the environment, energy, and maritime sectors, funded by COSME, LIFE, and EMFF. EASME organizes the European Sustainable Energy Week and serves industries such as environmental management, energy production, and maritime activities.

GoBeyond is a FinTech company founded in 2008 and based in Zurich, Switzerland, that specializes in transforming angel investing into a scalable asset class for a diverse range of investors, from novices to experienced professionals. The firm provides a comprehensive deal platform that includes portfolio management tools, syndication and pooling options, due diligence services, and investment monitoring. Additionally, GoBeyond offers educational training modules across 11 categories, enhancing the knowledge and skills of angel investors. Its clientele consists of individuals, family offices, professional groups, and corporations, with operations extending across the European Union, Switzerland, and the United States. GoBeyond focuses its investments in various sectors, including environment, health, education, food, housing, services, medtech, biotech, technology, and luxury.

Innovaud is the innovation and investment promotion agency for the canton of Vaud, in Switzerland’s Lake Geneva region. Innovaud have a long history of supporting innovation by startups, scale-ups, SMEs and large tech companies.

Spicehaus Partners AG is an independent venture capital investor based in Zug, Switzerland, founded in 2018. The firm specializes in early-stage investments in B2B technology companies within Switzerland. Fully owned by its partners, Spicehaus Partners combines extensive investment experience with entrepreneurial expertise, fostering long-term partnerships between entrepreneurs and investors. The team actively engages with portfolio companies to support their growth and development, leveraging their dual background in entrepreneurship and institutional investment to navigate the challenges of building successful startups.

US Department of Energy is a government agency that regulates energy policy, research, and development. The Energy Department's mission is to ensure America’s security and prosperity by addressing its energy, environmental, and nuclear challenges through transformative science and technology solutions.

Tenity is a global innovation ecosystem and early-stage investor based in Zurich, Switzerland, founded in 2015. The firm operates as an accelerator and incubator, concentrating on companies within the technology sectors. With a mission to shape the future of finance and beyond, Tenity supports startups by providing resources, mentorship, and investment to foster innovation and growth in the evolving technological landscape.

B2venture is a venture capital firm established in 2000 and based in Saint Gallen, Switzerland. The firm specializes in early-stage investments, focusing on high-growth companies within various sectors, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, automation, advanced materials, biotech, climate technology, fintech, healthcare, logistics, and more. B2venture invests over EUR 100 million annually, with individual investment sizes ranging from EUR 0.25 million to EUR 3.5 million. Through its targeted approach, the firm aims to support innovative companies across Europe, fostering advancements in technology and business solutions.

Alpana Ventures SA is a Swiss venture capital firm based in Geneva, with additional offices in Paris, France, and Saratoga, California. Established in 2016, the firm specializes in seed, early stage, and growth capital investments, primarily focusing on sectors such as healthcare, information technology, finance, enterprise solutions, mobility, social media, gaming, and cybersecurity. Alpana Ventures aims to support innovative startups and emerging companies, particularly those located in Asia/Pacific, Switzerland, and the United States. The firm is committed to fostering digital transformation and integrating deep tech solutions into sustainable business models. By applying ESG criteria, Alpana Ventures seeks to invest in companies that contribute to a more sustainable future while positioning them as potential global market leaders.

ACE & Company is a private equity investment firm established in 2005 and headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. The firm specializes in three main investment strategies: Secondaries, Buyout, and Venture, targeting a diverse range of sectors including healthcare services, information technology, financial services, energy services, and business products. ACE focuses on managing risks and strategically adjusting investment exposure based on the developmental stage of companies. By adhering to portfolio construction guidelines, ACE aims to provide customized investment solutions that align with its investors' risk and return objectives. The firm emphasizes the importance of diversification and appropriate investment sizes to optimize private capital investments, supported by specialized teams dedicated to achieving long-term and sustainable results.

UBS is a global financial services firm headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, with a history spanning over 150 years. The company operates in various sectors, including wealth management, investment banking, and asset management, serving a diverse clientele that includes individuals, families, institutions, and corporations worldwide. UBS Wealth Management specializes in offering tailored asset management solutions, particularly for high net worth and ultra-high net worth individuals, focusing on building strong relationships through experienced Financial Advisors. The Investment Bank division provides a range of services, such as financial advisory on mergers and acquisitions, capital market financing, and access to global capital markets. Additionally, UBS Asset Management combines independent research and risk management to enhance investment performance for its clients. With offices in over 50 countries, UBS aims to deliver comprehensive financial solutions that address the unique needs of its clients.

Occident Group, founded in 1993 and based in Zug, Switzerland, is a venture capital firm that specializes in investing in deep technology start-ups. The firm focuses on spin-offs from scientific research, aiming to address societal challenges through innovative solutions. Occident Group supports start-ups primarily in the life sciences and industrial technology sectors, working with them from the seed stage onward. The firm takes a long-term approach, providing financial assistance as well as leveraging its extensive experience to help portfolio companies succeed. With a strong entrepreneurial mindset, Occident Group invests its own capital and prioritizes sustainable success in its investment decisions. The firm is dedicated to collaborating closely with founding teams, driven by a passion for making a positive societal impact through its investments. Occident Group primarily targets opportunities in Germany and Switzerland.

EquityPitcher Ventures is an early-growth venture capital firm established in 2016 and based in Zurich, Switzerland. The firm specializes in supporting promising B2B startups within the DACH region, focusing on providing entrepreneurs with essential resources for success. Through close collaboration with industry experts, investors, and exit partners, EquityPitcher Ventures aims to equip entrepreneurs with critical know-how, valuable contacts, and necessary capital to drive their businesses forward.

At Fortyone AG they hold participations in non-listed companies. They are guided by the question: "Can they make a difference?". As active investors, they make investments in which, in addition to the financial resources, they can add value to their knowledge, their experience and their relationships. In order to live up to this smart money approach and to be able to actively influence the corporate design, they usually require the involvement of the Board of Directors. The scope of the participation depends on the requirements.

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.

EQT Partners AB is a private equity and venture capital firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, with a global presence through additional offices in major cities across Europe, Asia, and North America. Founded in 1994, EQT specializes in a wide array of investment strategies, including expansion capital, buyouts, and growth equity, focusing on medium to large-sized companies with consistent cash flows or significant intrinsic value. The firm targets various sectors, such as healthcare, technology, energy, and infrastructure, and emphasizes investments in mid-market situations, over-leveraged companies, and distressed assets. EQT's investment approach is characterized by taking controlling or co-controlling equity stakes in its portfolio companies and actively participating in their management, often securing board seats. The firm typically holds investments for four to eight years, aiming to enhance growth and create long-term value for stakeholders.

Serpentine Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Zurich, Switzerland, founded in 2019 as part of the Swiss Ventures Group. The firm focuses on investing in the information technology and SaaS sectors within Europe. Its name, inspired by the winding roads of the Swiss Mountains, symbolizes the journey of navigating complex challenges to reach high-potential opportunities. By leveraging its expertise and regional knowledge, Serpentine Ventures aims to support innovative startups in achieving their growth objectives.

Redalpine is a venture capital firm based in Zurich, Switzerland, with an additional office in Berlin. Founded in 2006, it specializes in seed and early-stage investments, primarily in the information and communications technology and health technology sectors. The firm combines financial investment with operational expertise and a broad international network to support ambitious entrepreneurs in realizing their visions. With over €1 billion in assets under management, Redalpine has a diverse portfolio that includes some of Europe's most innovative software and science companies, such as N26, Taxfix, and Inkitt. The firm is committed to fostering disruptive innovations across Europe, leveraging its experience and resources to nurture over 95 companies in various industries.

BioMedPartners is a prominent venture capital firm based in Basel, Switzerland, established in 2003. Specializing in private equity and mezzanine financing, the firm focuses on early- and mid-stage companies within the healthcare and life sciences sectors. BioMedPartners targets a diverse range of industries, with particular emphasis on pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, diagnostics, and medical technology, primarily across Central Europe.

Founded in 2007, Swisscom Ventures is Zürich-headquartered venture capital arm of the Swisscom Group. The firm invests in small and medium-sized startups in IT, digital media, and telecommunication companies, globally.

TX Ventures is the corporate venture arm of TX Group, located in Zurich, Switzerland. The firm focuses on investing in sectors such as fintech, proptech, insurtech, and digital assets. With a commitment to enhancing the financial system, TX Ventures supports companies that aim to democratize access to financial products, thereby empowering individuals to achieve financial security. The firm provides hands-on assistance in marketing, technology, and IT security to foster the growth and sustainability of its portfolio companies. Through its investments, TX Ventures seeks to drive innovation and improve efficiency within these industries.

Pureos Bioventures is a venture capital firm based in Schwyz, Switzerland, dedicated to investing in private companies engaged in innovative drug development. The firm places a strong emphasis on advancing the next generation of biological drugs and drug formats, specifically targeting the biotechnology and drug discovery sectors. With a strategic focus on Europe, Pureos Bioventures aims to build a portfolio of 15 to 20 investments, fostering the growth of pioneering solutions in the pharmaceutical industry.

SIX FinTech Venture is the corporate venture capital arm of Six Group that began operation on December 1, 2017, with its headquarters in Zurich in Switzerland. It looks to invest in global early stage startups in the financial technology space.

CDP Venture Capital Sgr - National Innovation Fund aims to make venture capital a cornerstone of the country's economic development and innovation, creating the conditions for an overall and sustainable growth of the venture capital ecosystem.

Swisscanto Private Equity is an investment holding company that specializes in asset management services. The firm focuses on investing in growth companies in the late-stage venture and growth capital phases, particularly within the technology and healthtech sectors. Swisscanto Private Equity offers a range of services, including investment management, fund advisory, and private pension solutions, aiming to provide clients with high-quality investment and pension options. The company is dedicated to delivering standard solutions that meet the diverse needs of its customers.

Wille Finance is a Swiss-based multi-family office established in 2007, located in Zug. The firm specializes in managing investments across several asset classes, including private equity, real estate, digital media, and listed assets. In private equity, Wille Finance focuses on both early-stage investments, particularly in life sciences and information and communication technology, and late-stage opportunities. Its real estate strategy emphasizes a long-term, value-add approach, targeting key European cities. In digital media, the company invests in firms that integrate media, content, and technology. Additionally, Wille Finance maintains a net-long portfolio within its listed assets strategy, ensuring a diverse and balanced investment approach managed by an experienced executive team.

Rosetta Capital Limited is a private equity and venture capital firm established in 2001, with its headquarters in Haddenham, United Kingdom, and additional offices in London and Switzerland. The firm specializes in direct secondary investments, focusing on companies within the life sciences, healthcare, medical devices, and medical technology sectors. Rosetta Capital aims to identify and invest in opportunities primarily across Europe, North America, and Asia.

SevenVentures GmbH is the venture capital and private equity arm of ProSiebenSat.1 Group, based in Unterföhring, Germany, with an additional office in Küsnacht, Switzerland. Founded in 2009, the firm specializes in investing in startups and growth-stage companies, particularly in sectors such as consumer goods, retail, e-commerce, and services. It focuses on businesses that can leverage television advertising to achieve sustainable success, making it an ideal partner for business-to-consumer growth companies. SevenVentures typically invests between €5 million and €50 million, preferring companies with a minimum turnover of €5 million. The firm engages in balance sheet investments, often taking minority or majority stakes, and aims to remain invested for two to four years. With a strategic emphasis on brand development and operational support, SevenVentures has successfully collaborated with notable companies like Zalando and AboutYou, demonstrating its ability to enhance brand visibility and market positioning through targeted media campaigns. Its investment strategy extends primarily across German-speaking Europe, as well as select international markets.

BackBone Ventures AG is a venture capital firm established in 2018 and headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland. The firm specializes in early-stage investments, focusing on seed, start-up, and growth capital opportunities. BackBone Ventures primarily targets companies in the information and communication technology, food technology, and disruptive technology sectors, with a geographic emphasis on the DACH region and Israel. The firm's mission is to foster a positive impact for future generations by supporting exceptional entrepreneurs and enabling them to achieve significant success. With a strong ecosystem approach, BackBone Ventures aims to become a trusted partner for founders and investors in the pre-seed and seed venture capital landscape in Germany and Switzerland.

4FO Ventures

SOSV is a global venture capital firm based in Princeton, New Jersey, founded in 1995. It specializes in early-stage investments, focusing on deep technology innovations that address human and planetary health. The firm operates startup development programs, notably HAX and IndieBio, which provide resources, facilities, and lab equipment to accelerate the growth of promising startups. SOSV supports companies from their inception through various funding stages, including seed and series A rounds, while offering ongoing assistance to help them scale and attract additional investors. By concentrating on revolutionary technologies and cross-border markets, particularly in Asia, SOSV aims to foster significant advancements that benefit humanity and the environment.

Ringier AG is the largest Swiss media company with a significant international presence, producing over 120 newspapers and magazines. Established in 1833, it has expanded its operations to include printing facilities, radio and television stations, and more than 80 web and mobile platforms, employing approximately 8,000 people worldwide. The company is based in Zurich, where its headquarters has been located since 1978. Ringier has a long history of innovation, having launched Switzerland's first tabloid, Blick, in 1959, and recognized the potential of the internet in the late 1990s, establishing digital platforms such as Blick Online. The company operates through a diversified strategy encompassing publishing, digital business, and entertainment, and has engaged in international expansion since the 1980s, including ventures in Asia and Eastern Europe. Its commitment to journalistic quality, independence, and diverse information has defined its legacy over nearly two centuries.

Swiss Life Group is a prominent European life insurance and long-term savings company with over 160 years of experience in providing financial protection solutions. The firm primarily operates in Switzerland, while also maintaining a presence in France, Germany, and several affluent European markets. Swiss Life generates revenue through three main sources: savings income, which pertains to spread-based earnings; risk results, which relate to insurance margins; and fee results, stemming from asset management and financial advisory services. Over recent years, the importance of fee income has increased, driven by growing demand for financial advice, unit-linked products, and third-party asset management. The company's mission centers on enabling individuals to live longer and more self-determined lives.

Emerald Technology Ventures AG is a venture capital firm based in Zurich, Switzerland, established in 2000. The firm specializes in clean technology investments, focusing on sectors such as energy, water, advanced materials, and industrial information technology. Key areas of interest include solar power, distributed energy generation, electricity storage, water purification, and waste recycling technologies. Emerald aims to invest in companies projected to achieve market growth of 15% to 20% per annum, with investment amounts ranging from approximately $1.26 million to $12.76 million. The firm primarily targets companies in Europe, Australia, Israel, and North America. With a preference for exiting investments within four to six years, Emerald Technology Ventures is committed to supporting technologies that contribute to net-zero emissions and sustainable development.

Helvetia Group is a longstanding international insurance company that has evolved over 150 years from various Swiss and foreign insurance firms. Headquartered in Switzerland, it operates subsidiaries across Europe, including Germany, Italy, Austria, and Spain, while also having a presence in France and selected regions worldwide. The company is involved in multiple segments, primarily offering life, property and casualty, and reinsurance services. Its life segment, which includes life insurance, pension plans, and annuities, is the largest revenue generator. Helvetia serves a diverse clientele, including retail customers and corporations of all sizes, and considers mergers and acquisitions as part of its growth strategy.

Joyance Partners, LLC is a venture capital firm based in the United States that focuses on investing in early-stage startups. The firm is dedicated to identifying and supporting emerging science and bio-based technologies that enhance individual health and well-being. Its investment strategy emphasizes companies that aim to increase joy, fulfillment, and independence for their customers. Joyance Partners seeks to invest in the health and consumer sectors, targeting ventures that demonstrate potential for impactful innovation within a two-year timeframe. The firm's mission is to cultivate joy and improve quality of life through scientific advancements and technology.

PolyTech Ventures SA is a venture capital firm based in Ecublens, Switzerland, specializing in seed, early-stage, and Series A investments. Established in 2008, the firm focuses on high-tech startups across various sectors, including fintech, digital health, cleantech, proptech, and life science tools and services. PolyTech Ventures primarily invests in Swiss companies but also considers opportunities in Europe and the United States. Initial investments typically range from CHF 0.1 million to CHF 0.5 million, with potential follow-on investments of up to CHF 2.5 million for promising businesses. The firm's strategic location near EPFL in Lausanne allows it to tap into one of the world's most dynamic innovation ecosystems, enhancing its ability to support impactful startups.

Helvetica Capital is an independent, entrepreneurial investor focusing on Swiss companies.

It is the fifth largest retail financial institution in Switzerland.

Forestay Capital is dedicated to investing in the tech sector and reflects Waypoint’s focus on innovative, forward-looking industries in which it can leverage its entrepreneurial heritage and long-track record in helping businesses to realize their ambitions for growth. It is passionate about technologies that transform conventional models with software and data to make an impact on business, practices, and people. It invests in revenue-generating technology companies in Europe, Israel, and in the US, and favors software and data-driven businesses that challenge established models. Forestay Capital was founded in 2017 and is headquartered in Geneve, Switzerland.