201 Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm based in Madrid, Spain, focused on advancing freedom and autonomy in Europe. The firm backs pre-seed and seed-stage companies, particularly those with technical risk, ambition, and a service mindset. 201 Ventures places a strong emphasis on supporting founders with technical backgrounds, such as PhDs, and promotes a hands-on, truth-seeking approach to building innovative technologies.
201 Ventures invests primarily in pre-seed and seed-stage companies within the intelligence, defense, and dual-use technology sectors. Their portfolio includes startups working on advanced technologies such as hypersonics, biosecurity, subsurface mapping, maritime sensing, and Arctic autonomy.
The firm launched its debut fund in January 2024, which is sized at $22 million. This fund supports founders building cutting-edge technology with a focus on strategic autonomy and freedom in Europe.
Leadership
Eric Slesinger serves as the General Partner of 201 Ventures and is a key figure in shaping the firm's strategic direction. He has played a pivotal role in building the firm and driving its focus on high-impact technology sectors.
Investment Strategy
201 Ventures targets founders with deep technical expertise and a strong drive to solve complex problems. The firm prefers companies with innovative products and unique advantages in large, strategic markets. 201 Ventures looks for exceptional management teams and clear exit strategies, investing with active involvement to add value beyond just capital. The firm focuses on companies that can reach cash flow breakeven and builds a diversified portfolio to effectively manage risk.
Notable Investments
While specific portfolio companies are not detailed in the provided information, 201 Ventures invests in advanced technology sectors, including hypersonics, biosecurity, subsurface mapping, maritime sensing, and Arctic autonomy.
Notable Exits
No exit information is publicly available as of the latest reports.
