Bek Ventures Closes $250M Fund, Triples Expectations with Focus on 'Dynamic Europe'
January 22, 2025The firm, formerly known as Earlybird Digital East, focuses on early-stage companies led by founders from Central and Eastern Europe, a region Sertoglu describes as 'Dynamic Europe.'
Cem Sertoglu, the Managing Partner at Bek Ventures, recently announced the closing of a $250 million fund that was three times oversubscribed.
Bek Ventures has earned a reputation as the best-performing venture firm globally since 2010, achieving over 10x multiple on invested capital (MOIC) for its investors.
Sertoglu highlights that the founders from this region exhibit exceptional technical talent and a strong work ethic, which positions them favorably for global expansion.
Sertoglu has adjusted his high general partner commitment based on feedback to avoid becoming overly risk-averse in their high-risk investment strategy.
Bek Ventures typically backs around 20-25 companies per fund and emphasizes follow-on investments, with 90% of its portfolio companies receiving additional funding.
Despite increasing demand from limited partners, the firm maintains consistent fund sizes, believing that a focused investment strategy leads to superior long-term performance.
The firm aims to provide substantial value to its portfolio companies through personalized care and attention, steering clear of the noise often associated with other venture capitalists.
He emphasizes the significance of effective exit management and a robust ownership strategy for achieving high returns, especially in challenging market conditions.
Sertoglu advises maintaining discipline in investment strategies and resisting pressure from limited partners to alter successful approaches, even if it complicates fundraising.
With a decade-long track record, Bek Ventures has supported notable companies such as UiPath, Payhawk, and Peak, which are the first unicorns from Romania, Bulgaria, and Turkey, respectively.
Sertoglu underscores the importance of a disciplined investment strategy, focusing on a select group of early-stage companies to provide them with dedicated support.
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EUVC | The European VC • Jan 22, 2025
Bek Ventures’ Cem Sertoglu on avoiding the temptation of AUM and staying disciplined