Venture Capital – You have the courage, and we have the trust

There are once-in-a-century ideas that fail for a simple reason—lack of funding. We want to prevent that from happening, because we believe that if you’re innovative, professional, and bold, you’ve earned our trust. Does this description fit you? Then bring us on board. With up to 1.5 million euros in SFG funding behind them, Styrian startups can say, “Let’s get going!”
In einem grünen Bob mit der Aufschrift "SFG" sitzt ein Bobfahrer mit goldenem Helm - ein anderer schiebt ihn von hinten an.
Portrait Anna Steiner
Anna Mössner-Steiner +43 316 7093 216
Verena Scheibl
Verena Scheibl +43 316 7093 206
Sebastian Schmid +43 316 7093 213
Portrait Benjamin Zenz
Benjamin Zenz +43 316 7093 302

Success through teamwork

Is it possible to accurately predict whether an idea will be successful? We know from experience that there’s always a risk involved. But we’re aware of factors that increase the chances of success: a well-functioning team of people whose knowledge complements one another, and the right timing for entering a market (or niche). Forward-thinking, technological expertise, and a solid business plan—all of these elements provide fertile ground for the growth of startups.

Capital and expertise as an investment

Are you a young entrepreneur who sees yourself in this description? Then get in touch with us. We invest up to 1.5 million euros of equity capital in innovative Styrian startups with high growth potential. As co-partners, we’ll stay on board for up to ten years before you buy back the shares or new investors come on board. Until then, you’ll have access to our expertise—we’ll advise you, for example, when short innovation cycles change markets and demand, making a strategic readjustment necessary.

What exactly characterizes venture capital? Read a detailed and precise definition here.

For whom?
  • innovative micro and small businesses based in Styria
  • companies in the startup or scaleup phase (founded no more than 10 years ago)
  • companies, preferably in the mobility, green tech, and health tech sectors
For whom not?
  • medium- and large-sized companies
  • companies that do not fall within the SFG´s target group
  • locations outside styria
  • individuals
For what?
  • personnel and operating expenses, particularly in connection with research and development projects
  • expenses related to market development and the establishment of distribution channels
  • investments in fixed assets
  • working capital requirements
How much?
  • up to 1.5 million euros
  • The investment is made jointly with an experienced and qualified co-investor (business angel or venture capital firm); SFG and the co-investor each contribute an equal amount and on the same terms.
Important hints
  • The company must already have been established.
  • The business model must demonstrate strong innovation and market potential. A coherent business plan has been submitted for project review.
  • The project received a positive evaluation from a business angel or venture capital firm, and that investor has demonstrably expressed an interest in investing.

Funding process

advise

You’re planning a project. Pick up the phone and ask our experts whether the SFG can help fund your project. We’d be happy to set aside time for a personal consultation and an initial analysis of your business plan.

apply for

Submit your application online through our portal!

Important: Submit your application before you begin your project!

review the application

We’ll take a close look at your project and business plan and draw up a term sheet.

approve the financing

If we are able to assist you with financing, the terms and conditions will be set forth in a contract.

start project

Now it’s your turn: You can begin implementing the project.
Keep the SFG informed of your financial progress through management reports.

Important: We’re here to help if you need support with strategic or business management issues.

disburse the financing

The financing agreement specifies the conditions for the disbursement of the financing—usually in several milestone-based installments. Once the conditions are met, we will transfer the funds to your account.

exit

The exit will take place after a maximum period of 10 years, which means we will sell our shares in your company either to the co-shareholders as part of a buyback (if specified in the contract) or to third parties.