OpenseedVC launches with first close of $10m fund
OpenseedVC launches with first close of $10m fund
OpenseedVC is the brainchild of general partner Maria Rotilu.
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OpenseedVC, a new operator-led fund seeking to be the first investors in seasoned operators starting their technology companies across Africa and Europe, has officially launched, announcing the first close of its $10 million angel-style early stage fund.
The fund, backed by LPs such as founders, operators and high-net-worth individuals across Africa, Europe and US, will offer up to $150,000 starter cheques.
OpenseedVC is the brainchild of general partner, Maria Rotilu, whose vision is to invest early in the growing number of experienced operators who aspire to launch their technology companies.
Rotilu, an operator turned investor herself, has gained extensive market expertise across both Africa and Europe through scaling multinational technology start-ups like Uber and Branch to millions of users. She held roles such as country manager and general manager at these companies. Additionally, she has invested in companies as a principal and fund manager of the Octopus Ventures First Cheque Fund. Maria also served as managing director at the Oxford Seed Fund of Oxford University.
Rotilu commented: “As an operator, and investor, I have encountered incredibly talented and experienced operators, and the challenges faced as they try to launch their startups. Operators have the advantage of domain expertise, and unique insight into large problems that can be tackled with innovative technology. Those who are visionaries coupled with the ability to execute, scale, build teams and have the grit required to solve difficult problems – these skills, especially in the current market, are highly relevant to building technology start-ups that solve real problems, and create scalable value for the global economy and our investors. The experience seasoned operators bring in terms of business building, combined with the dynamism and hustle that founders possess, is the focus for OpenseedVC.”
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