Meet our Investor Member Teddy Amberg, Founding Partner of Spicehaus

What is your background and previous experience?

Both my co-founder Daniel and I combine institutional and entrepreneurial experience. We worked in investment banking and private equity, and we founded and built our own companies. Since 2012, we have invested in more than 40 startup companies.

What is your investment focus?

At Spicehaus Partners, we focus on early-stage technology startups in Switzerland. Our primary areas of interest are centered around B2B software in sectors such as AI & big data, cybersecurity, Fintech & InsurTech and robotics. We are particularly drawn to scalable business models with strong, visionary founders and a clear competitive edge.

Could you tell us more about the investment portfolio you have built so far? 

Our portfolio consists of highly sophisticated B2B technology companies in Switzerland, spread across two funds. Our second fund is active and seeking new investments as we speak. Our portfolio companies from the first fund have successfully grown from seed stage to growth companies – most of them already with an international client base.

Can you provide examples of successful investments you have made in the past?

One standout example is our investment in Amnis, which has shown tremendous growth in the fintech space with treasury and foreign exchange solutions for small- to mid-sized companies. Another success story is Kemaro, a robotics company that today sells its autonomous cleaning robot to leading customers across the globe. These companies showcase the ability of Swiss technology companies to successfully grow an international presence.

How do you typically add value to the startups you invest in, apart from capital infusion?

Beyond providing capital, we actively support startups with strategic guidance, access to our network, and operational expertise based on our own experience as founders and entrepreneurs. We help with fundraising, market entry strategies, and scaling operations. Our team often connects startups with potential customers, partners, and team members to accelerate their growth. We initiated the Spicehaus Super Summit and the Spicehaus Speed Sessions which enable our founders to deep-dive into relevant topics and exchange with peers to scale faster.

And we mostly act as lead investor – a role that is often lacking in Swiss venture capital.

How many investments do you make per year?

On average, we make 5–8 new and follow-on investments per year, ensuring we dedicate sufficient time and resources to each portfolio company.

What is the typical investment size you consider for startups?

Our typical investment size ranges from CHF 500’000 in the first round to CHF 1 million in follow-on rounds, depending on the stage and capital requirements of the startup.

Can you describe your due diligence process? What factors do you consider before making an investment?

Our due diligence process is thorough and includes evaluating the team, market opportunity, competitive landscape, product-market fit, financial projections, and scalability. We also look for alignment with our values and assess whether we can make a meaningful contribution to the startup’s success.

How long does the investment decision-making process usually take?

The process typically takes 6–12 weeks, depending on the complexity of the opportunity and the availability of information (such as data room). We prioritize clarity and transparency in our communication to ensure a smooth experience for all parties involved.

What level of involvement do you typically have with the companies you invest in? Do you take board seats or have observer rights?

We are hands-on investors. In most cases, we take board seats or observer rights to stay actively involved and provide strategic support. At the same time, we require autonomy of founders to run their business.

What is your typical timeline for exiting investments? Are you focused on short-term exits or long-term growth opportunities?

We adopt a long-term perspective, aiming for exits within 5–8 years. Our focus is on building sustainable businesses that can achieve significant value before considering an exit.

How many successful exits have you had?

Daniel and I have invested in more than 40 startups since 2012. We were part of some of Switzerland’s most successful exits including Bexio (acquired by Mobiliar) and MOVU (acquired by Baloise).

How important do you consider organizations like the Swiss Startup Association for the startup ecosystem in Switzerland?

Organizations like the Swiss Startup Association play a crucial role in fostering a supportive environment for entrepreneurs. They advocate for startups, create networking opportunities, and provide resources that help startups thrive. Their work is essential for strengthening the ecosystem.

Is there anything else that you would like to tell our community?

Switzerland is home to incredible talent and innovation. At Spicehaus Partners, we are committed to supporting entrepreneurs who are building the next generation of successful companies. If you’re a founder with an ambitious vision, we’d love to hear from you and explore how we can collaborate to create lasting impact.

Make sure to also have a look at our annual flagship event for successful founders: www.gruenderball.ch.

Connect with Teddy on LinkedIn 

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About the Swiss Startup Association

The Swiss Startup Association (SSA) is the umbrella organisation and the voice of Swiss startups. As a sector-independent non-profit organisation, the SSA gives startups a strong voice vis-à-vis politics, business and the public and works to improve the conditions for startups in Switzerland.
Beyond its political engagement, the SSA fosters a community for startups, recognizing the unique challenges they face. Through networking opportunities, educational sessions, and practical services, the SSA collaborates with industry partners to offer tailored support and valuable resources to guide founders on their entrepreneurial journey.

Join the Swiss Startup Association! Tap into our member benefits, the comprehensive Investor List and get full access to our events. By becoming an SSA Member, you enjoy discounted tickets to our Big Founders Dinners, the SSA Founders Day, and our other events.