Outward VC, a London-based investment firm, has officially unveiled its second fund, Outward VC Fund II, with a first closing of €60.5 million. This new fund marks a significant milestone for the firm, continuing its mission to support early-stage founders and drive innovation in financial technology and beyond. The cornerstone investment of €35.5 million comes from the British Business Bank, highlighting the strong support for emerging venture capital managers in the UK.

Commitment to Early-Stage Founders

Since its inception in 2019, Outward VC has been dedicated to easing the early-stage journey for founders. The launch of Fund II reaffirms this commitment, focusing on aiding startups during the critical early stages of their development. Founders often face numerous hurdles at this stage, from refining their product and building a strong team to acquiring their first customers and managing regulatory challenges. Outward VC aims to alleviate these pressures by providing early and substantial support.

A Proven Approach

Outward VC's approach to investment is grounded in a deep understanding of the challenges early-stage founders face. With a track record of investing in over 100 founders, the firm values merit over social proof and seeks out driven, passionate entrepreneurs. The investment process is characterized by swift decision-making and clear communication, ensuring that founders receive timely feedback and support.

Expanding Fintech Horizons

Fund II will place a strong emphasis on fintech, extending beyond traditional financial services to address broader societal challenges. The fund envisions a future where fintech solutions tackle issues such as healthcare inefficiencies, data privacy, intergenerational wealth transfer, and more. This forward-thinking approach reflects Outward VC's belief in fintech as a tool for economic impact and societal benefit.

Support from Key Partners

The successful launch of Outward VC Fund II is supported by a diverse group of investors, including a significant cornerstone investment from the British Business Bank. This backing is part of the Enterprise Capital Funds programme, which aims to support emerging UK-based venture capital managers. The fund also benefits from the continued support of existing LPs from Outward VC's first fund, reinforcing the firm's strong relationships with its investors.

Looking Forward

The venture capital landscape has experienced significant shifts in recent years, with changing interest rates and market conditions presenting new challenges. However, these changes have also fostered a more realistic and thoughtful approach to investing. Outward VC is well-positioned to navigate this new phase, with a focus on exceptional domain expertise and cutting-edge technology, particularly in artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Outward VC's launch of Fund II represents a significant step forward in supporting early-stage founders and driving innovation. By continuing to provide critical support at the early stages of business development and expanding its focus on impactful fintech solutions, Outward VC is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of venture capital and entrepreneurship. As the firm embarks on this new chapter, it remains committed to empowering the next generation of groundbreaking startups and transformative technologies.