COLOGNEVenture Capital GmbH
DEEN
Two people walking through a bright curved company corridor

Collaboration

For companies

Our investment process – transparent across several phases

The shared path

Clear in process. Open in dialogue.

The path from first contact to investment is structured transparently. Open communication, fair terms and an efficient process matter to us. The exact course depends on the type of commitment: for independent direct investments we decide quickly and without complication. For venture capital commitments made together with partners, correspondingly more coordination and time should be planned. We are aware that an investment process is time-consuming for companies and runs alongside day-to-day business – we therefore strive to keep it as lean as possible.

Prepared bright meeting room for a first conversation

Seven phases

Our investment process

The stated timeframes serve as rough guidance and are not a firm commitment.

  1. 01
    Smartphone and company profile on a bright desk

    Phase 1

    Guidance: approx. 1–2 weeks

    First contact & preliminary review

    The first step is getting in touch via our contact form, by e-mail or through our network. In this phase we review the basic parameters: Does the company fit our investment spectrum? Does the capital requirement suit a direct investment or rather a venture capital commitment? If the basic requirements are met, we arrange an initial meeting to get to know the team, understand the business model and determine whether a collaboration makes sense.

    Documents required: short profile or executive summary, current financial overview.

  2. 02
    Company analysis with magnifying glass and tidy charts

    Phase 2

    Guidance: approx. 2–4 weeks

    In-depth review

    After a positive initial meeting, we carry out an in-depth analysis of the business model, figures and team. We meet the management and hold further discussions where useful. Among other things, we review the market environment and competitive position, the business model and its economics, financial development, and the team and organisation. If our impression is positive, we provide a non-binding, indicative assessment of a possible framework.

  3. 03
    Two tidy document folders with a pen in between

    Phase 3

    Guidance: approx. 1–2 weeks

    Letter of intent

    If both sides are fundamentally interested, we record the key parameters in a letter of intent or term sheet: a possible valuation range, the envisaged stake, and basic governance and information rights. This declaration is generally not legally binding, with the exception of any exclusivity and confidentiality clauses, but it creates a clear basis for the further review.

  4. 04
    Bright, carefully organised data room with a circular skylight

    Phase 4

    Guidance: approx. 4–8 weeks

    Due diligence

    Due diligence is the most comprehensive phase. We review the relevant areas of the company: financial, legal and commercial aspects as well as, depending on the business model, additional subject areas. For commitments made together with partners, we coordinate the review with the co-investors involved. The company usually provides access to a virtual data room for this purpose. Findings from the due diligence feed into the further negotiations.

  5. 05
    Two parties discussing contract documents together

    Phase 5

    Guidance: approx. 2–4 weeks

    Structuring & contract negotiation

    On the basis of the due diligence results, the final contracts are drawn up, such as the investment agreement and the shareholders' agreement. In this phase, valuation and stake, governance structure and information rights are finalised. We value balanced contracts; both sides are usually advised by their own legal counsel.

  6. 06
    Signing a contract on a bright table

    Phase 6

    Guidance: approx. 1–2 weeks

    Signing & closing

    Once negotiations are complete, the contracts are signed (signing). The closing – the transfer of the capital – usually takes place shortly afterwards, provided any conditions such as shareholder approvals are met. With the closing, the investment is officially completed.

  7. 07
    Two business partners on a shared path through bright architecture

    Phase 7

    Guidance: no fixed timeframe

    Ongoing support

    After closing, the ongoing support of the company begins. We think long-term and help where it makes sense – with entrepreneurial experience, access to our network and, where appropriate, support with further financing steps. Our goal is a partnership-based, discreet and long-term collaboration rather than mere capital provision.

Let's talk

Next steps

If you are interested in working with Cologne Venture Capital GmbH, please get in touch. We look forward to getting to know your company and reviewing together whether an investment makes sense.

Get in touch