S6E17 - Jimmy Fussing Nielsen, Managing Partner @ Heartcore Capital
Sep 27, 2023
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Jimmy Fussing Nielsen, Partner and Co-founder of Heartcore Capital, joins James Pringle and Hector Mason to discuss high-risk investing, the evolution of investment strategy, comfort in moving into new spaces, venture capital landscape, choosing the right co-founder, and emphasizing concerns and curiosity.
Heartcore Capital prioritizes high-risk investments and seeks ventures that align with their values of promoting happiness.
Heartcore Capital differentiates itself by being a risk-loving investor, taking calculated risks in industries with regulatory challenges.
Deep dives
Heartcore Capital's early-stage venture strategy
Heartcore Capital is an early-stage European VC firm with a focus on pre-seed to early A investments. They have a track record of backing successful unicorns and prioritize investing in high-risk, daring ventures. The firm aims to invest in companies that are aligned with their values, particularly those that promote happiness. They believe in the importance of choosing co-founders wisely and emphasize the need to have a clear vision and communicate it effectively. Heartcore Capital also highlights the significance of starting with the end goal in mind and setting clear milestones for each phase of a company's growth.
Risk-loving strategy and the importance of taking calculated risks
Heartcore Capital differentiates itself by being a risk-loving investor, particularly in contrast to the wealth preservation mindset prevalent in Europe. They believe in hunting for big opportunities rather than solely focusing on risk reduction. The firm takes calculated risks in industries with regulatory challenges, such as fintech, biotechnology, and digital health services, where many others may avoid investing. They recognize the need to balance risks and uncertainties and seek investments with the potential for significant impact if successful. Heartcore Capital values technology progress, scalability, and regulatory developments when considering investments.
Navigating fundraising and the importance of investor relationships
Heartcore Capital has successfully raised multiple funds, maintaining strong relationships with existing institutional investors. They emphasize the significance of transparency, communication, and trust in these partnerships. Heartcore Capital advises founders to choose co-founders carefully and foster strong relationships with investors. They believe in the power of storytelling and captivating founders' passions and dreams to attract investors. Additionally, the firm encourages founders to start with a clear vision of where they want their company to be in the future and set achievable milestones. Heartcore Capital also acknowledges the challenges of raising funds and recommends founders be prepared for timing and market dynamics.
Insights from experience and a call for more VC understanding
Heartcore Capital's co-founder Jimmy Fussing Nielsen shares insights from his experience in the venture capital industry. He admires the consistency and success of Warren Buffett, the 'Sage of Omaha,' and believes that politicians, like President Macron, should have a better understanding of the VC industry. Jimmy encourages VCs to listen to founders and have empathy for their experiences. He highlights the need to focus on long-term relationships with founders and investors, nurturing trust and transparency. Lastly, Jimmy emphasizes the value of self-reflection and advises having a dinner with oneself in the future to gain wisdom and perspective.
Jimmy Fussing Nielsen is a Partner and Co-founder of Heartcore Capital, an early-stage venture capital fund with offices in Copenhagen, Stockholm, Berlin, and Paris. Since 2007, they have backed some of Europe’s biggest category-defining companies, such as Tink, Neo4j, Boozt, Peakon, Seriously and TravelPerk. So far, they have invested in over 100 founding teams from 13 different countries. And they're looking for more.
Jimmy joins James Pringle and Hector Mason in this episode to discuss high-risk investing, what’s the hardcore pitch to founders, balancing contrarian views, & so much more.
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