Gründungsfonds Portfolio Day 2025- Gründungsfonds

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An evening dedicated to our startups – together with founders, investors, innovators, and a community shaping the future.

Highlights of the Evening

Our moderator, Antonia Rinesch, set the tone with sensitivity, curiosity, and the right questions, creating an atmosphere where speakers and audience felt at home – perfect for open discussions and practical insights.

Panel 1: Success Stories from Our Portfolio

Alexander Igelsböck (Adverity), Sander van de Rijdt (PlanRadar), and Harald Nitschinger (Prewave) shared candid and humorous stories from their wild early days to the pivotal successes of their startup journeys. Key takeaways: the first funding round is often the biggest hurdle, sales-led growth proved highly effective for all – and when your U.S. investor calls in the middle of the night because Silicon Valley Bank just collapsed, things get really interesting.

Panel 2: Learnings from the Next Generation

Denise Hirner (UpNano GmbH), Gerald Zankl (Kickscale), and Dominik Pezzei (OPTIMUSE) – our newest portfolio companies – shared lessons from their first funding rounds and the challenges on the road to product-market fit. The discussion was intense and hands-on: from the power of clear deadlines to the necessity of pivots, and the realization that a trip to Silicon Valley – complete with an Airbnb featuring a rooftop whirlpool – can sometimes be the ultimate game-changer.

Networking & Community

The evening transitioned into networking with inspiring conversations, new connections, and an atmosphere full of energy. These community moments are what strengthen ideas, opportunities, and innovation across the startup ecosystem.

A heartfelt thank you to the entire team – from the first planning step to the final detail – to Antonia Rinesch for her moderation, to all panelists, and to our guests who brought the evening to life.

Registration area with a large screen displaying “Portfolio Welcome.” A person stands at a table with name badges and a laptop.

Close-up of a discussion at the panel table. Three people seated together with water jugs and glasses on the table.

View of the audience. Several people seated and listening attentively.

Audience seated in a conference room watching a panel discussion. A large screen in the background displays names and photos of the panelists.

Group of attendees networking in front of a large LED screen displaying “Let’s Connect.”

Attendees engaged in conversation during networking in the aws Lounge. Several people standing and talking together.

Close-up of served finger food on a tray, including glasses and small bowls of snacks.

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