Mainport Innovation Fund II & Shift III

Airline Corporate Venture Capital Investment

Overview of SHIFT Invest

Largest Dutch Climate Impact Venture Capital Fund

SHIFT Invest has expanded to a total fund size of EUR 110 million, positioning it as the largest Dutch venture capital fund dedicated to combating climate change, biodiversity loss, and natural resource depletion. This expansion is marked by the inclusion of new partners such as KLM, NS, and Royal Schiphol Group, alongside increased investments from existing stakeholders like the European Investment Fund (EIF), Invest-NL, and TNO.

Strategic Focus on Sustainable Sectors

Originally known for its impactful investments in companies like Protix, Vandebron, and ViriCiti, SHIFT Invest specializes in accelerating young companies that make a significant climate impact, particularly in the agro-food, energy, and industrial sectors. With the newly raised capital, the fund is expanding its focus to include mobility and logistics, recognizing the urgent need for sustainability in these sectors.

Investment Thesis of SHIFT Invest

Addressing Critical Environmental Challenges

SHIFT Invest's expansion into the mobility and logistics sectors is a strategic move, considering these sectors account for a significant portion of global greenhouse gas emissions and have a substantial environmental and biodiversity impact. The fund aims to support innovative startups and scale-ups that can introduce new technologies, services, and business models to drive sustainability in these complex industries.

Leveraging Partnerships for Greater Impact

The collaboration with new investors like KLM, NS, and Royal Schiphol Group is a key aspect of SHIFT Invest's strategy. This cooperation not only provides additional capital for young companies but also brings in the network, knowledge, and operational capabilities of these market leaders, significantly increasing the likelihood of successful and impactful ventures.

Proven Track Record and Expertise

SHIFT Invest's previous successes, such as the investment in e-mobility company ViriCiti, demonstrate its capability to identify and nurture high-potential ventures. The fund's management by New Balance Impact Investors (NBI Investors) further adds to its credibility, given the team's extensive experience in investment and entrepreneurship.

Commitment to Sustainable Development

The fund's focus aligns with the broader global movement towards sustainable development. Investments are carefully selected based on their potential for positive environmental impact and financial return, ensuring a balanced approach that aligns with the fund's mission and investor expectations.

*Last update: November 2023