Aleksandra, Author at ETF Partners

Basemark raises $23.9M for AI-based computer vision and AR experiences in cars

10th April 2024 9:07 am Comments Off

We are thrilled to announce a groundbreaking leap forward in automotive technology from our portfolio company, Basemark! 🚗💡 With a fresh injection of $23.9M in funding, Basemark is set to revolutionise the driving experience through advanced AI-based computer vision and augmented reality (AR) experiences.

We’re proud to have led this Series B round alongside Finnish Industry Investment (Tesi), Constructor Capital, and others! This milestone marks a significant step in Basemark’s journey towards making roads safer, more sustainable and driving more enjoyable. Their Rocksolid AR software development tools are paving the way for OEMs in Europe, the United States, and Asia to rapidly develop and deploy AR solutions that promise a new era of automotive excellence.

Speaking on the news, our Senior Partner, Remy de Tonnac, shared, “In the future, as autonomous cars become the norm, we expect a significant decrease in the total number of vehicles on the road, with the majority being electric. This shift will result in a substantial reduction of emissions. Augmented reality is key to this transformation, serving as an integral component of the Software Defined Vehicle megatrend that is guiding the automotive industry toward full autonomy. Basemark is at the forefront of the AR/VR HUD technology revolution and they are perfectly positioned to help OEMs craft safer, more sustainable, and more enjoyable driving experiences for all“.

Congrats to Tero Sarkkinen and the entire Basemark team for this exceptional achievement!

Read more about this exciting development in VentureBeat HERE.

Episode 19: In conversation with Jeffrey Nachmanoff, Hollywood screenwriter and director

5th April 2024 12:55 pm Comments Off

Discussing ‘The Day After Tomorrow’ with Jeffrey Nachmanoff!

We’re heading to the movies for our latest episode of the ‘Sustainability Talks’ podcast. Our host and Managing Partner, Rob Genieser, sat down with Hollywood screenwriter and director Jeffrey Nachmanoff, who wrote the screenplay for the 2004 blockbuster film ‘The Day After Tomorrow’. The film depicts the catastrophic effects of climate change and the dawning of a new ice age.

Life often imitates art, but how much of the film’s predictions have come to pass? The answer is in places as chilling as the film’s closing scenes. In this episode, we explore Jeffrey’s journey into filmmaking, the science behind ‘The Day After Tomorrow’, and how telling fictional stories can have real-world resonance.

Whether you’re a film enthusiast or a sustainability expert, this episode offers a unique perspective that combines the world of entertainment with pressing global issues.

More about Jeffrey Nachmanoff

Jeffrey Nachmanoff was born and raised in Virginia and moved to London with his family as a teen. He majored in Visual Arts and English at Harvard, where he somehow convinced his instructors to give him credit for travelling with a family circus as a senior thesis. The photo-documentary book he made about the experience, a mix of black and white images and oral histories, convinced him that what he really wanted to do was tell stories with pictures. After a brief stint as an editor, he subsequently went to USC film school and embarked on a career as a director and screenwriter.

His big break came when he wrote the ecological disaster movie “The Day After Tomorrow”. He spent several years as a screenwriter before transitioning to writer/director on the feature film “Traitor”, an international espionage thriller starring Don Cheadle and Guy Pearce.

Nachmanoff’s extensive television credits include directing the pilots for the dramas “Detroit 187” (ABC), “Chicago Fire” (NBC), and Hostages (CBS), which he also wrote and served as co-showrunner on for the series. In addition, he co-wrote the pilot for “Legends” (TNT). His episodic directing work includes “Homeland” (Showtime), “The Brave” (NBC), “The Passage” (FOX), “Lovecraft Country” (HBO), “Echo 3” (APPLE) and “Daredevil: Born Again” (MARVEL). He served as a consulting producer on Chicago PD (NBC) and directed the independent sci-fi feature “Replicas” (starring Keanu Reeves). He currently lives in Los Angeles with his family.

Find out more about Jeffrey Nachmanoff and his work HERE.

Listen to all the episodes of Sustainability Talks HERE.

Gen Phoenix selected as one of the Most Innovative Companies by Fast Company

2nd April 2024 1:26 pm Comments Off

We are excited to celebrate a monumental achievement of our portfolio company, Gen Phoenix! 🎉 In a nod to their pioneering efforts, they’ve been selected as one of the Most Innovative Companies by Fast Company.

The journey of innovation is never easy, but Gen Phoenix has truly set a new benchmark in the field of sustainable materials over the past year. They’ve unveiled an extraordinary new leather material that not only breaks new ground in terms of eco-friendliness but does so with unparalleled efficiency. This material proudly boasts a record-breaking 77% recycled content, marking a significant milestone in their quest for sustainable solutions. 🌱

We encourage you to delve into the story behind why Fast Company has chosen to spotlight GenPhoenix. It’s a story of ingenuity, sustainability, and the drive to make a difference.

Check out the details HERE.

Let’s continue to support and celebrate innovations that pave the way for a more sustainable future. Together, we can make a difference, one innovative solution at a time.

The Modern Milkman on a remarkable journey of growth and international expansion

28th March 2024 4:44 pm Comments Off

In an inspiring narrative that spans continents, the Modern Milkman, a company deeply rooted in sustainability and reducing plastic waste, has embarked on a remarkable journey of growth and international expansion. 🌏

This journey is beautifully encapsulated in a video they recently shared that delves into both the company’s origins and its ambitious merger with its American counterpart, a family business led by Seth Bahler in Ellington, Connecticut.

The union of these two companies is not just a business merger; it’s a fusion of shared values and visions for a sustainable future. The story, described as a “beautiful blend of British charm and the American dream,” is compellingly narrated by Simon Mellin the founder and CEO of Modern Milkman.

From the company’s early days of acquiring its first local milk round to its nationwide expansion in the UK, and the serendipitous discovery of their American twin, this tale is one of innovation, perseverance, and a shared commitment to environmental stewardship.

To hear the story firsthand from Simon M. and to gain deeper insights into Modern Milkman’s journey towards sustainability and international expansion, watch the enlightening video below!

Join us in celebrating the milestones achieved by Modern Milkman and stay tuned for more updates on their continued efforts to reduce plastic waste, promote reusable packaging, and empower consumers to shop ethically!

Listen HERE.

Shippeo, SAP, and Coca-Cola HBC transforming logistics operations for the better

25th March 2024 3:01 pm Comments Off

We’re thrilled to spotlight the impactful strides our portfolio companies are making in the real world. A shining example is the collaboration between Shippeo, SAP, and Coca-Cola HBC, which is transforming logistics operations for the better.

Together, they’ve achieved remarkable milestones including:

✅ Enhanced supply chain fluidity through improved carrier collaboration.
✅ Elevated customer satisfaction with more reliable on-time deliveries.
✅ Achieved substantial cost savings in transportation, leading to financial gains.

Dive into the full story HERE.

“Most Influential Women in Mobility” report by Vulog

22nd March 2024 10:17 am Comments Off

📣 Exciting news from the mobility sector!

Our portfolio company, Vulog, has just released their highly anticipated 6th annual “Most Influential Women in Mobility” report.

This report shines a spotlight on the inspiring women driving change and making significant strides in the world of mobility. It’s a celebration of female leadership, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of a more sustainable and inclusive future.

The report features some of the most influential figures in the sector, sharing their unique insights, experiences, and advice for the next generation of female leaders. It’s an essential read for anyone involved in or interested in the future of the mobility space.

So why wait? Dive into the report and be inspired by the trailblazing women shaping the future of sustainable mobility.

Check out the full report HERE.

Zeelo’s 2023 ESG & Impact Report: “Greener Routes, Scaling Sustainability”

19th March 2024 5:30 pm Comments Off

We’re proud to share Zeelo’s 2023 ESG & Impact Report, titled “Greener Routes, Scaling Sustainability.” This is not just another report – it’s a testament to Zeelo’s commitment to creating a greener and more sustainable future.

The report provides a deep dive into Zeelo’s environmental, social and corporate governance policies. It’s a transparent look at their goals, achievements, and the steps they’re taking to reduce emissions and improve access to transport for underserved communities.

But this isn’t just about Zeelo’s journey. It’s a blueprint for other companies in the sustainable transportation space, demonstrating what’s possible when innovation, sustainability, and business interests align.

Check out the full report HERE.

Together, let’s drive the change towards a more sustainable future.

TMM, Zeelo and Hellas Direct secure spots on the prestigious Financial Times 1000: Europe’s Fastest-Growing Companies list!

13th March 2024 2:30 pm Comments Off

ICYMI: We’re thrilled to share that not one, but THREE of our remarkable portfolio companies have secured spots on the prestigious Financial Times 1000: Europe’s Fastest-Growing Companies list! 🏆

The Modern Milkman, a trailblazer in sustainable, local dairy delivery, has not only disrupted the traditional milkman model but has also earned a well-deserved place among Europe’s growth champions. Their commitment to reducing food waste and promoting eco-friendly practices is truly commendable.

Zeelo, another standout in our portfolio, is revolutionising transportation with innovative and dynamic solutions. From personalised shared mobility services using superior data analytics and intelligence to unique AI-powered algorithms, Zeelo is at the forefront of redefining how we move efficiently and sustainably.

Hellas Direct, the newest member of our portfolio, is developing and deploying insurance products that help people adapt to the effects of the climate crisis. A true pioneer in the insurance industry, Hellas Direct is at the forefront of innovating and delivering solutions that address the growing climate risks and urgent challenges of our time.

Earning spots on the FT 1000 is no small feat, and it’s a testament to the hard work, dedication, and innovative spirit of the teams at The Modern Milkman , Zeelo and Hellas Direct. We’re proud to be part of their journey and support their vision for a more sustainable, impactful, and connected future.

Congratulations to all three companies – your success is not only a reflection of your excellence but also an inspiration to the entire ETF Partners community.

See the full list HERE.

Welcome to ‘Sustainability Talks,’ the podcast that brings you the pulse of sustainability, courtesy of ETF Partners – Europe’s premier impact and sustainability VC

2:13 pm Comments Off

Welcome to ‘Sustainability Talks,’ the podcast that brings you the pulse of sustainability, courtesy of ETF Partners – Europe’s premier impact and sustainability VC.

We firmly believe in turning challenges into opportunities. So why not lend an ear to where the smart money is? Join us as we dive deep into the most crucial and timely discussions in the sphere of sustainability, innovation, and impact, featuring some of its most influential and inspiring figures.

From pioneering founders to renowned academics, from outspoken activists to esteemed business leaders – our guests are shaping the future of sustainability.

Get a taste of what we’re all about by checking out our brand-new trailer below… Dive in and become a part of the conversation.

Listen and subscribe HERE.

Join us on this journey!

Measuring biodiversity impact: Individual KPIs versus ESG ratings

12th March 2024 4:41 pm Comments Off

In our interconnected world, we are becoming increasingly aware of the crucial role that biodiversity plays in maintaining the health and balance of our planet. However, understanding the importance of biodiversity is one thing – measuring its impact is another. 🌏

How do we quantify the effects of our actions on biodiversity? How can we ensure our endeavours are not only sustainable but also beneficial to the rich and varied life that shares our world?

We are excited to share insights from Samantha Duncan, the Founder and CEO of Net Purpose, one of ETF Partners portfolio companies. Samantha recently spoke with Michael Nelson to tackle these questions in an enlightening article for PA Future and ESG Clarity.

In this piece, they delve into the complexities of measuring biodiversity impact, shedding light on the tools and metrics we can use to gauge the influences of our activities on the natural world. They discuss the challenges faced, the progress made, and the road ahead, providing a comprehensive understanding of this vital aspect of sustainability.

Check out the full article HERE.

Happy International Women’s Day from the ETF Partners family!

8th March 2024 11:08 am Comments Off

As we mark International Women’s Day at ETF Partners, we reflect on the tremendous impact women have in steering the course of sustainability and environmental innovation. 🌍

Today, we celebrate the brilliant minds, resilience, and leadership of the women driving positive change in the environmental technologies space. Their dedication is instrumental in advancing sustainable solutions and shaping a cleaner, greener future for all.

Let’s continue to amplify the voices of women in STEM, sustainability, and venture capital, working hand in hand to address the challenges of our time.

Together, we create a more sustainable and equitable world. Happy International Women’s Day from the ETF Partners family! 🌱💚

Agnès b. takes a first step to strengthen the traceability of its production chain using Fairly Made

7th March 2024 11:10 am Comments Off

We’re thrilled to announce that the iconic fashion brand Agnès b. is partnering with our portfolio company Fairly Made® to revolutionise Agnès b.’s supply chain transparency and significantly reduce their environmental footprint.

This transformative alliance will provide end-consumers with comprehensive insights into each garment they purchase, empowering them to make informed decisions about their fashion choices.

Here’s what you can expect:

🌿 Raw Material Information: You’ll have access to detailed information about the raw materials used in your garments, enabling you to understand the product’s composition better.

✅ Certifications: Rest assured, as all products will come with certifications that guarantee they meet specific standards for sustainability and ethical production.

🌬️ Carbon Footprint: Stay informed about the environmental impact of your fashion choices with clear information about the carbon footprint associated with each garment’s production and distribution.

🌍 Product Journey: Gain a deeper understanding of your clothing’s journey, from the sourcing of raw materials to the final product in your hands. This transparency allows you to appreciate the intricate process behind each piece of clothing.

This partnership is an exciting step forward for both agnès b. and Fairly Made®, and we can’t wait to see the positive changes it will bring to the fashion industry.

To learn more about this exciting venture, check out this article by FashionUnited.

Basemark raises $23.9M for AI-based computer vision and AR experiences in cars

Episode 19: In conversation with Jeffrey Nachmanoff, Hollywood screenwriter and director

Author Archives: Aleksandra