Amsterdam VC NP-Hard Ventures Launches €25M Fund II To Back Foundational Tech Innovators

NP-Hard Ventures has already closed 60% of Fund II, with backing from over 30 European founders and investors. The capital will help support teams tackling complex technical challenges vital to Europe’s future.

Named after “NP-Hard” problems in computer science, the firm funds founders addressing the toughest technical and systemic issues. Its first €12M fund supported 30 companies, including Roseman Labs (encrypted computing), Monumental (construction robotics), Engrate (energy API), and Isembard (distributed manufacturing OS). Fund II aims to boost Europe’s capacity to develop and own foundational technologies in AI-driven and globally competitive sectors.

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Anke Huiskes, co-founder and Managing Partner at NP-Hard Ventures, mentions, “Europe has the talent and grit – what we need is to channel it. AI and geopolitics have changed the game. Ownership of foundational technology is essential. The question isn’t whether Europe can build world-class infrastructure. It’s whether we choose to.”

“We’re backing the crazy ones who choose ownership. If that’s you, please reach out!”

NP-Hard Ventures is a founder-led European VC firm supporting early-stage companies tackling the hardest technological problems. Its name comes from “NP-Hard” in computer science, reflecting challenges that demand breakthroughs.

Fund I (€12M) invested in 30 companies across encrypted computing, construction robotics, and distributed manufacturing, with checks from €100K–€500K (avg. €250K).

Fund II (€25M) targets 30 pre-seed and seed startups in robotics, deep tech, computing, manufacturing, and defence, offering €250K–€550K checks (avg. €450K). The firm acts as a first investor, making rapid decisions without taking board seats, investing across Europe and the US.

NP-Hard Ventures’ mission: empower founders solving foundational problems, ensuring Europe builds and owns its technological future. Their mantra: “Complain less, build more. We back the crazy ones who build our future.”

About NP-Hard Ventures

Founded in 2021, NP-Hard Ventures backs product-driven early-stage European founders building the technologies of tomorrow. Focusing on Robotics, AI, and computational infrastructure, the firm combines deep operator experience and a strong network to support resilient, safe, and productive foundational innovations.