TLDR:
Key Points:
- Zaka VC has launched its first VC fund with a first closing of €10.5m
- The fund is focused on supporting early-stage start-ups in the US and EU in B2B software, AI, biotech, and health tech
Zaka, a VC firm, has announced the launch of a €15m fund to support early-stage start-ups in both the US and EU. Founded in 2020 by entrepreneurs Jan Kasper and Peter Zalesak, Zaka previously invested privately in early-stage start-ups and has now expanded its presence globally. The fund, which started with a first closing of €10.5m, aims to support pre-seed and seed funding rounds with a focus on B2B software, AI, biotech, and health tech.
The decision to launch the VC fund came from a growing demand from external investors seeking opportunities in the start-up ecosystem. Zaka plans to fund the European diaspora in the US, US-based teams, and CEE-based teams looking to expand into the US market. The firm aims to enhance its presence in the US market, citing the high potential for investment returns despite higher valuations compared to the CEE region.
Last week, VC firm 13books Capital closed a £121m fund to support fintech founders, indicating a positive trend in the venture capital market. However, the global VC market has faced challenges, with funding into Irish start-ups falling by nearly half compared to the previous year. Despite these challenges, Zaka remains optimistic about the opportunities in the US and EU markets for early-stage start-ups.
