How One of Germany's Most Influential Female Investors Deploys €1.1 Billion Through EQT Ventures

About this episode

Doreen Huber has traveled a remarkable path: from serial entrepreneur with four startups – including Delivery Hero and Lemoncat – to Partner at EQT Ventures, one of Europe's largest venture capital funds with €1.1 billion in assets under management. Her story demonstrates why transitioning from founder to investor can be the logical next step.

From Founding to Investing: A Conscious Decision

After over 15 years of entrepreneurship and four startups, Doreen made a clear decision: no more founding. Instead, she uses her experience to support other founders as an investor. This role allows her to combine learnings from both worlds and strategically help startups grow.

The differences between the founder and investor roles are significant. As a founder, she was responsible for operational details; as an investor, she can act strategically and leverage her network for portfolio companies.

EQT Ventures: €1.1 Billion for European Startups

EQT Ventures focuses its impressive fund volume on three core areas: B2B software, deep tech, and fintech. The fund supports startups not only financially but also through EQT's global network, which provides access to markets, talent, and strategic partnerships.

The strategy is clear: European startups should be able to scale internationally through the combination of capital and operational support. The experience of partners like Doreen plays a crucial role in this approach.

Sales DNA: Often More Important Than the Best Product

A central point in Doreen's philosophy is the importance of sales for startup success. In her experience, a strong sales team is often more important than the best product. Founders must learn early how to build their first sales processes and when the right time is to scale a team.

This isn't just about selling itself, but about the entire go-to-market strategy. Companies that develop strong sales DNA from the beginning have significantly better chances of sustainable growth.

AI as a Game-Changer for Startups

Doreen sees artificial intelligence as a fundamental game-changer for companies. AI enables startups to work more efficiently, tap into new markets, and fundamentally change how products are developed and sold.

For startups, this means both opportunity and challenge. Those who deploy AI skillfully can gain decisive competitive advantages. At the same time, founders must understand which AI applications truly create value.

Fundraising: Finding the Right Investor

Fundraising isn't just about money. Founders should find the right investor for their vision – one who offers not only capital but also strategic value. At the same time, it's important to realistically assess the market and potential of your own product.

The question "Who is investor money suitable for and who isn't?" is central here. Not every company benefits from venture capital, and sometimes alternative financing forms are the better path.

From €5 to €50 Million: Scaling in Practice

Growing from €5 to €50 million in revenue requires special characteristics and capabilities. Companies must adapt their organizational structures, enter international markets, and simultaneously preserve their core strengths.

Doreen emphasizes the importance of proper timing for internationalization. The step abroad should be well-considered and built on a solid foundation in the home market.

Learnings for German Founders

German startups have clear strengths in certain areas but lag behind in others. The B2B software industry has developed strongly over the past four years, yet there's still catching up to do in international scaling and the use of new technologies.

Doreen's experience shows: successful founders combine German thoroughness with international ambition while leveraging support from experienced investors who bring more than just money to the table.