Tim Weiss

HPV is a venture capital investment manager focused on technology-related industries, following a hands-on investment approach. The firm invests in the software, web services and cleantech sectors throughout Europe, particularly in German-speaking countries, as well as in Israel. The firm targets innovative early-stage and expansion-phase companies with the potential to become global leaders in their market segment. HPV's investment criteria include an experienced management team, a distinctive product or service providing a durable and sustainable customer benefit, and the potential for an international roll-out, especially in the US market. The firm invests EUR 500 thousand to 10 million, generally in the form of equity. The firm supports their portfolio companies through a wide variety of services, including IT-equipped incubator space, business advisory, partnerships and network development. They hire third-party providers of professional services such as recruiting and design-led innovation consultancy. Their goal is to support young entrepreneurs in transforming their ideas into marketable products. In 2008 HPV launched a pan-African venture capital fund co-sponsored by MAN Ferrostaal AG, a division of the Munich-based MAN AG group (FR: MAN). MAN Ferrostaal provides industrial services and is a key player in alternative energy. Based in Stellenbosch near Cape Town, the fund focuses on pre-profit innovative African companies in the technology industry and in industrial sectors such as heavy engineering, automotive and green technology, with an emphasis on social entrepreneurship.