Deep Tech: The $15 trillion opportunity you don’t want to miss

Could deep tech add $10-$15 trillion to the global economy by 2030? According to PwC’s Sizing the Prize report, once again we’re on the brink of something enormous once again. Deep tech isn’t about small improvements; it’s about creating entirely new industries with high defensibility, technical complexity, and patents – making advancements that solve some of the world’s toughest problems.

At Tensor Ventures, we saw this potential early on, which is why we were the first VC in the region to target early deep-tech startups. In today’s fast-paced tech landscape, countries—especially the Czech Republic—must prioritize deep tech investments to stay competitive. Supporting this ecosystem not only strengthens a country’s economy but also creates a ripple effect that benefits every sector.

Dream Team: The power of CVC + VC partnerships

But to truly unlock deep tech’s potential, we need more than money; we need partnerships. Collaboration between Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) and deep tech-focused Venture Capital (VC) firms is essential. CVCs provide financial backing, strategic insights, market access, and scaling power that deep tech startups need. When CVCs and deep tech VCs team up, the innovation doors swing wide open.

Here’s how some countries are doing it right:

1. United States: "Alright, alright, alright," naturally, the U.S. is out in front. Known for its strong collaboration between corporate venture capital (CVC) and deep tech VCs, the U.S. excels in fields like AI, quantum computing, and biotech. Giants like Google, IBM, and Johnson & Johnson bring market insights and operational scale, while deep tech VCs fuel specialized expertise and nimble startup strategies. For instance, Google Ventures invests heavily in life sciences and AI, while IBM collaborates with smaller quantum startups to push the boundaries of computational power.

2. Germany: With an industrial powerhouse of corporations like BASF, Siemens, and BMW, Germany’s CVCs co-invest with VCs in industrial automation, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy.

3. Israel: Famous for its startup ecosystem, Israel’s CVCs, including IBM and Qualcomm, focus on innovations in cybersecurity and AI, helping to make Israel a global tech hub.

4. Switzerland: Deep tech, particularly in biotech and medtech, flourishes in Switzerland with support from pharmaceutical giants like Novartis and Roche, fueling fintech and medical advancements.

5. Finland: Finland’s collaboration between CVCs and VCs, especially in telecommunications, energy, and industrial automation, is powered by companies like Nokia (yeah, still there) and Business Finland.

6. Ireland: With tech-friendly policies and tax incentives, Ireland is a magnet for medtech, cybersecurity, and fintech CVC-VC partnerships. Corporates like the Bank of Ireland co-invest with local VCs, creating a dynamic ecosystem.

7. France: Corporate and VC partnerships in deep tech are well-supported in France, particularly in AI, aerospace, and clean tech. Corporations like Airbus and Orange team up with VCs under programs like Bpifrance and La French Tech.

8. Netherlands: Through initiatives in sustainability, health tech, and quantum technology, Dutch companies like Shell and Philips actively invest in environmental and health tech startups.

Let’s make some waves (or particles)

The real magic happens when corporate venture capital teams up with deep tech VCs – fuelling bold, practical innovation. At Tensor Ventures, we know firsthand that this synergy is key to leading the tech game. We’ve been here since deep tech was more of a whisper than a buzzword, backing startups that aren’t just following trends but setting them.

So, why partner with Tensor? With 20 investments, 2 successful exits, and backing from the European Investment Fund, we’re a trusted name in deep tech — and we’re just getting started. As we launch our second fund, we bring capital, deep knowledge, a powerful network, insights, and a true long-term commitment to pioneering technologies. For companies ready to explore new frontiers, partnering with Tensor means accessing untapped markets, attracting world-class talent, and building solutions that last.