DOEN Ventures invests in frontrunners that generate a clear positive and systemic impact on the world. Companies that can accelerate the transition to a circular economy in which there is a focus on the commons, in which everyone can participate, and in which there is room for radical thinkers who can show a new perspective on the world.
When considering an investment, DOEN Ventures looks at the following components:
- Substantive criteria
- Funding criteria
- Geographical area
- The results of the due diligence
1. Substantive Criteria
We invest in frontrunners building towards a more regenerative economy. Within this broad mission, the focus of DOEN Ventures is:
- Sustainable consumer products (B2C)
- Alternative materials
- Circular business models
- Sustainable food systems
- Blue economy
We acknowledge that not every start-up can be neatly classified in one of these criteria, and we invite entrepreneurs that fit our broader mission to also submit a request.
Exceptions are startups in Energy Access, and Energy Transitions, as DOEN sees enough available funding in these areas by other funds and investors.
- Funding Criteria
In consultation with the enterprise and any other investors, DOEN Ventures decides which form best suits the phase in which the company is operating. In principle, DOEN Ventures requires a co-investor to validate the business model. DOEN strives for a minority stake and needs other investors to be aligned with the mission. We make sure the impact mission of the company is guaranteed for the future through correct governance (for instance steward ownership).
- Geography
Aside from the sector of the startup, DOEN Ventures has a few geographical regions in which it operates: we focus on the Netherlands, United Kingdom, Germany, Norway, and Sweden (the countries where the Postcode Lottery Group operates). DOEN Ventures sees a possibility of investing in other geographical regions, but due to insufficient local knowledge, it invests in these countries mainly through funds.
- Due Diligence
By due diligence we mean the process of identifying the risks and opportunities of an enterprise. This includes looking at the team, the market and competition, the business plan, the product, and legal aspects.
The primary focus of our due diligence lies in the potential for impact. We analyze the potential type and size of this impact in its sector. For this, it is important that the company is a frontrunner in the sector and has potential to change sectors.