Italian Founders Fund (IFF) is a venture capital fund managed by Milan-based Koinos Capital, created to support the growth of digital startups founded by Italian entrepreneurs. Launched in 2024, the fund invests at the pre-seed and seed stages, aiming to strengthen Italy’s position in the global startup ecosystem and accelerate the country’s digital transformation.
IFF backs early-stage digital startups founded by Italians, whether operating in Italy or abroad. Its portfolio spans companies across Italy, the UK, the US, and Singapore, reflecting its ambition to support Italian talent on a global scale. The fund targets businesses with scalable models and strong potential for follow-on growth.
In August 2025, Italian Founders Fund raised €35 million from the Digital Transition Fund of CDP Venture Capital, bringing its total capital to €90 million.
This expansion funding will enable IFF to increase its follow-on and later-stage investments, providing continued support to its existing portfolio as they scale. Since inception, the fund has invested in 14 startups, participating in subsequent rounds for four of them, including Jet HR and SAVA.
The Digital Transition Fund, led by Enrico Filì, is an initiative dedicated to advancing Italy’s digital transition, leveraging resources from the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR).
Leadership
The fund is led by Koinos Capital with a team that includes Partner Irene Mingozzi, formerly a Principal at IFF, and Lorenzo Franzi. The partnership benefits from strong networks within Italy’s entrepreneurial and venture ecosystems, as well as operational expertise in scaling early-stage businesses.
Investment Strategy
IFF’s strategy focuses on identifying high-potential Italian-founded startups early, providing capital, strategic guidance, and follow-on support. By combining pre-seed and seed investment with the capacity to invest in later stages, the fund aims to remain a long-term partner for its portfolio companies throughout their growth journeys.
Notable Investments
IFF’s portfolio includes 14 startups across diverse digital sectors, with follow-on participation in companies such as Jet HR and SAVA. These businesses represent a mix of domestic and international operations, showcasing Italian entrepreneurial talent on the global stage.
Notable Exits
As a relatively new fund, IFF has not yet recorded notable exits.
Other
IFF offers a unique combination of early-stage capital and the ability to participate in later rounds, supported by strong institutional backers such as CDP Venture Capital
