Nordic Foodtech VC is a Helsinki-based venture capital firm founded in 2019, specializing in early-stage investments within the food and agriculture technology sectors. The firm is committed to supporting startups that develop innovative solutions aimed at creating a healthy, resource-efficient, and resilient food system. With a focus on the Nordics and Baltics, Nordic Foodtech VC collaborates closely with universities and research institutions to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and industrial application.
Nordic Foodtech VC targets pre-seed and seed-stage startups that offer deep-tech solutions to systemic inefficiencies in the global food system. The firm invests in companies developing technologies such as precision fermentation, biomanufacturing, and satellite imaging for agriculture. By concentrating on B2B technologies rather than consumer brands, Nordic Foodtech VC aims to support ventures that can scale globally and have a significant impact on food security and sustainability.
In June 2025, Nordic Foodtech VC announced the first close of its second fund at €40 million, with a final target of €80 million. The fund is backed by institutional investors such as Tesi and Elo Mutual Pension Insurance Company, as well as food industry stakeholders including Valio Pension Fund and Heino Group. Investment sizes range from a few hundred thousand euros to €2 million, with significant reserves allocated for follow-on investments. The fund continues to focus on leading early-stage rounds in the Nordics and Baltics, while also co-investing across Europe.
Leadership
The firm is led by partners including Lauri Reuter, PhD, and Louise Heiberg. Reuter, a scientist-turned-investor, brings experience from his tenure at the Finnish research institution VTT, where he focused on translating scientific innovations into commercial ventures. Heiberg contributes a strong background in venture capital and a commitment to investing in startups that address critical challenges in the food system.
Investment Strategy
Nordic Foodtech VC's strategy centers on identifying and investing in startups that solve tangible, business-critical problems within the food and agriculture sectors. The firm emphasizes the importance of early collaboration with industry stakeholders to ensure that the technologies developed meet real market needs. By working closely with academic institutions, Nordic Foodtech VC aims to unlock the commercial potential of scientific research, particularly in regions where early-stage risk capital is scarce.
Notable Investments
The firm's first fund, launched in 2020 with €42 million, invested in 18 startups across the Nordics and Baltics. Notable investments include:
These companies are developing technologies ranging from alternative proteins and functional fats to satellite-based environmental monitoring and nutrient recycling from waste streams.
