The AM Ventures Holding GmbH has been an investor in the field of industrial 3D printing since mid-2015. The company has also invested in several successful Munich-based startups – Dyemansion and Vectorflow are two examples.
Uli Langer, Partner Manager at AM Ventures, answered our questions.
AM Ventures: Leading investor in 3D printing
Please introduce yourselves briefly!
We are the world's leading investor in industrial 3D printing. Through our extensive network and family relationship with EOS, the global market leader in this field, we provide unique access to technology, experts, and financing opportunities.
Furthermore, we currently have more than a dozen other 3D printing-related companies in our portfolio.
In which area do you prefer to invest?
We invest exclusively in the field of industrial 3D printing, also known as 'generative manufacturing' or 'additive manufacturing'. Within this field, however, we invest along the entire value chain: new materials, hardware, post-processing technologies, software, and automation.
Quick exit? Not interesting!
What kind of startup would you never invest in?
We aren't interested in investments that reduce us to the role of financier. Our greatest strength is our network. When we invest, we only do so if the investment benefits from our network, and vice versa.
Startups that are preparing for a quick exit are also outside our area of interest.
Do startups have to be afraid that you will interfere too much?
No. In our group, the "arm's length" principle applies. As long as everything is running smoothly, we allow our entrepreneurs to operate independently. We will never force a company to cooperate with another. However, we are happy to provide support and will do so with all the energy we have.
At what stage do startups ideally approach you?
Because we believe that no one in the industry has comparable experience, we like to invest in companies as early as possible, i.e., pre-seed and seed. However, our resources and partners are also available for more mature rounds.
How long does it take from the first contact to the conclusion of the contract?
Typically, it takes between four weeks and four months, depending on the complexity of the project.
Knock-out criterion: arrogance
Tell us the knockout criteria for the pitch!
Arrogance and conceit. Unfortunately, it often happens that entrepreneurs try to conceal insecurity with feigned self-confidence and lose their sense of proportion. We prefer an open and honest description of a situation.
What have you ever miscalculated?
In life, it always happens that you misjudge the situation or simply take a calculated risk that unfortunately ends in the worst case scenario. So far, however, we have been able to address all difficulties with personal commitment and support from our portfolio companies, and everything turned out well in the end.
What is the Munich startup scene doing right from an investors' perspective? What could it do better?
What's special about Munich is the availability of major technology partners that can deliver significant value. This is already being utilized on a broad scale, but there's certainly room for further expansion.
More prudence desired
Raising venture capital is right and important for startups. However, I would like to see more prudence from entrepreneurs. While quick cash is certainly attractive, it costs significantly more in the long run than the investment of a strategic partner who, in addition to money, also brings technology, expertise, and a lot of patience.
Last but not least: Who do startups approach when they want to talk to you?
We maintain a very intensive exchange within our team and always keep each other up to date. Therefore, all team members are equally suited.
Our website is certainly suitable for a cold call www.amv.ventures or the email address info@amv.ventures preferably.
