SISTAFUND Company Profile
Background
Overview
SISTAFUND is a European venture capital firm established in October 2022, headquartered in Paris, France. The firm is dedicated to investing in early-stage startups that are founded or co-founded by women, with a specific focus on gender-balanced teams. SISTAFUND's mission is to bridge the funding gap between male and female entrepreneurs by providing financial support and resources to exceptional female founders. The firm primarily operates in France, Europe, and the United States.
Mission and Vision
SISTAFUND aims to empower women entrepreneurs by investing in companies that challenge the status quo and drive innovation. The firm's vision is to create a more inclusive and diverse entrepreneurial ecosystem, recognizing that gender-balanced teams often outperform their counterparts. Studies have shown that companies with at least 30% women in their founding team are 2.5 times more profitable.
Industry Significance
SISTAFUND addresses the significant underrepresentation of women in the venture capital space. By focusing on female founders and gender-balanced teams, the firm contributes to a more equitable distribution of venture capital, fostering diversity and inclusion within the startup ecosystem. This approach not only promotes social equity but also enhances the potential for innovation and economic growth.
Key Strategic Focus
Core Objectives
- Investment in Female-Led Startups: SISTAFUND is committed to investing in companies founded or co-founded by women, aiming to reduce the gender funding gap in the entrepreneurial landscape.
- Support for Gender-Balanced Teams: The firm prioritizes startups with at least 30% female ownership in the founding team, recognizing the value of diverse leadership in driving company performance.
Areas of Specialization
SISTAFUND focuses on the following sectors:
- Healthtech: Investing in innovative healthcare solutions that improve patient outcomes and healthcare delivery.
- Fintech and Insurtech: Supporting financial and insurance technologies that enhance accessibility, efficiency, and inclusivity in financial services.
- Sustainability: Backing ventures that address environmental, social, and economic sustainability challenges.
- Frontier Tech: Investing in cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence and deep tech that have the potential to transform industries.
Key Technologies Utilized
SISTAFUND leverages its extensive network of entrepreneurs and experts to provide portfolio companies with access to specialized knowledge and resources in these sectors. This collaborative approach enhances the growth and performance of the startups in which the firm invests.
Primary Markets Targeted
The firm primarily targets markets in France, Europe, and the United States, focusing on regions with vibrant startup ecosystems and a growing emphasis on diversity and inclusion.
Financials and Funding
Funding History
SISTAFUND has set a fundraising target of €100 million for its first fund, SISTAFUND I. As of November 2024, the firm secured €30 million from the European Investment Fund (EIF), marking a significant milestone in its fundraising efforts.
Recent Funding Rounds
- European Investment Fund (EIF) Investment: In November 2024, the EIF invested €30 million in SISTAFUND, becoming a limited partner in the fund.
Notable Investors
In addition to the EIF, SISTAFUND has attracted investments from prominent French entrepreneurs and corporations, including BNP Paribas, Française Des Jeux (FDJ), and L’Oréal.
Utilization of Capital
The capital raised is intended to support early-stage startups, with initial investments ranging from €500,000 to €3 million, depending on the stage of the company. The firm aims to invest in approximately 30 companies, taking significant stakes to actively support their growth and development.
Pipeline Development
Key Pipeline Candidates
SISTAFUND has invested in several startups across its focus sectors:
- The Exploration Company: Aerospace and defense company aiming to make space exploration more accessible and affordable.
- Underdog: Household appliances company focusing on innovative product designs.
- Optimiz Construction: Business/productivity software company providing solutions to optimize construction processes.
- Astran: Network management software company specializing in cybersecurity solutions.
- Vizzia: Business/productivity software company utilizing AI to combat illegal deposits.
Stages of Development
The firm invests from pre-seed to Series A stages, providing early-stage funding to startups with high growth potential.
Target Conditions
SISTAFUND focuses on startups that are founded or co-founded by women, with at least 30% of the founding team’s shares held by women. This criterion ensures a commitment to gender diversity and balanced leadership.
Anticipated Milestones
The firm aims to close its first fund at €100 million and continues to seek additional investments to support its portfolio companies.
Technological Platform and Innovation
Proprietary Technologies
SISTAFUND does not develop proprietary technologies but leverages its network to provide portfolio companies with access to specialized knowledge and resources in their respective sectors.
Significant Scientific Methods
The firm employs a data-driven investment approach, utilizing market research and performance metrics to identify high-potential startups.
AI-Driven Capabilities
While SISTAFUND does not develop AI technologies, it invests in companies that utilize AI to drive innovation and efficiency, such as Vizzia, which uses AI to combat illegal deposits.
Leadership Team
- Tatiana Jama – Founder & General Manager: Tatiana is a serial entrepreneur with over 15 years in the technology industry. She co-founded Dealissime, which was acquired by Amazon in 2011, and has invested as a business angel in over 30 companies. Tatiana co-founded SISTA in 2018 and SISTAFUND in 2022.
- Isabelle Gallo – Managing Partner: Isabelle joined SISTAFUND in October 2023 as Managing Partner. She brings extensive experience in venture capital and entrepreneurship, contributing to the firm's strategic direction and growth.
- Alice Groth – Associate: Alice supports the investment team in sourcing and evaluating potential investments, contributing to the firm's mission of supporting female founders and gender-balanced teams.
- Natacha Brami – Associate: Natacha assists in the due diligence process and portfolio management, ensuring that SISTAFUND's investments align with its strategic focus and criteria.
Leadership Changes
In October 2023, Isabelle Gallo joined SISTAFUND as Managing Partner, bringing additional expertise and leadership to the firm.
Competitor Profile
Market Insights and Dynamics
The venture capital landscape is increasingly recognizing the value of diversity, with studies indicating that companies with diverse leadership teams often outperform their peers. SISTAFUND operates in a competitive market, with several funds focusing on gender diversity and inclusion.
Competitor Analysis
SISTAFUND's competitors include other venture capital firms that prioritize diversity, such as Female Founders Fund in the United States. However, SISTAFUND distinguishes itself by being one of the largest gender lens funds in Europe, with a quantified approach to gender balance in its investments.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
SISTAFUND has established partnerships with organizations like SISTA, a non-profit co-founded by one of the firm's partners, to foster a more inclusive venture capital ecosystem.
Operational Insights
SISTAFUND's focus on gender-balanced teams and its commitment to diversity provide a competitive advantage in attracting a unique pool of startups and investors who value inclusivity.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
Strategic Roadmap
SISTAFUND plans to continue expanding its portfolio by investing in startups that align with its mission of supporting female founders and gender-balanced teams. The firm aims to close its first fund at €100 million and is actively seeking additional investments to support its growth.
Future Business Directions
The firm intends to broaden its geographic reach, exploring opportunities in other European markets and strengthening its presence in the United States.
Opportunities for Expansion
SISTAFUND sees potential in sectors such as artificial intelligence and deep tech, where gender diversity is underrepresented.
