Maki.vc

Maki.vc is a Helsinki-based early-stage venture capital firm founded in 2018 that invests primarily in deep tech and brand-driven companies at the pre-seed and seed stages. The firm’s mission is to partner with audacious founding teams who challenge category norms through scientific advancements and a deep understanding of customer needs, aiming to reshape industries and build iconic brands. Maki.vc focuses on sectors including SaaS, software, big data & analytics, climate tech & cleantech, fintech, and enterprise software. Beyond capital, it offers founders access to a global expert network via its Maki House initiative, supporting startups in future-proofing their businesses and integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles to foster sustainable growth and long-term resilience. This approach positions Maki.vc as a key player in nurturing innovative startups across the Nordics and Northern Europe, contributing significantly to the regional startup ecosystem[1][2][4].

Founded by partners Ilkka Kivimäki and Pirkka Palomäki, Maki.vc emerged from their experience scaling strong tech companies and a shared vision to back founders who are champions and challengers in their fields. Since its inception in 2018, the firm has evolved to manage multiple funds, including a €100 million fund launched in 2024, expanding its reach across Europe and the US while maintaining a Nordic focus. Early traction includes investments in notable portfolio companies such as IQM (quantum computing), Spinnova (sustainable fiber production), and Ultimate.ai (customer support automation), reflecting its commitment to deep tech and brand-driven innovation[2][3][4].

Core Differentiators

• Founder-Centric Model: Maki.vc emphasizes strong partnerships with founders, providing more than capital by leveraging its Maki House network of global experts to support strategic growth and operational challenges.
• Deep Tech & Brand Focus: The firm targets companies that combine scientific innovation with brand-building potential, differentiating itself from generalist VCs.
• ESG Integration: Incorporates environmental, social, and governance factors into investment decisions to help startups build sustainable and resilient businesses.
• Track Record: Portfolio includes pioneering companies in quantum computing, sustainable materials, and AI-driven automation, demonstrating a successful pattern of backing transformative technologies.
• Geographical Reach: While global in mandate, Maki.vc maintains a strong focus on the Nordics and Northern Europe, leveraging regional expertise and networks[1][2][3][4].

Role in the Broader Tech Landscape

Maki.vc rides the wave of accelerating technological advancements in AI, quantum computing, and sustainability-driven innovation. The timing is critical as these deep tech fields are transitioning from research to commercial viability, creating new market opportunities and business models. By focusing on founders who challenge established norms and integrating ESG principles, Maki.vc influences the startup ecosystem by fostering companies that are not only innovative but also responsible and future-proof. Its support helps bridge the gap between scientific breakthroughs and scalable, brand-driven businesses, contributing to the maturation of the Nordic and European tech landscapes[1][2][6].

Quick Take & Future Outlook

Looking ahead, Maki.vc is poised to deepen its impact by continuing to back frontier technologies and visionary founders, especially in sectors like climate tech and quantum computing, where market demand and societal needs are rapidly growing. The firm’s emphasis on ESG and founder support positions it well to influence the evolution of sustainable and resilient startups. As deep tech innovation accelerates, Maki.vc’s role as a strategic partner and network hub will likely expand, helping shape the next generation of iconic tech companies in Europe and beyond[2][4].