18th February 2026Upcoming

    What Early-Stage VCs Really Look for in Nordic B2B Founders

    Nordics have built a strong reputation for world-class startups. But when it comes to raising capital, what truly separates companies that get funded from those that don't?

    Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
    Format: Online
    Type: Fireside Chat + Q&A

    In this fireside chat, Rune Hven-Jensen, General Partner at Ugly Duckling Ventures, joins Startup Grind to share firsthand insights into how early-stage VCs evaluate Nordic B2B founders.

    We'll Explore:

    • •What early-stage VCs really look for at pre-seed and seed
    • •How traction, MRR, and momentum are evaluated in Nordic B2B
    • •Founder and team qualities that stand out early
    • •What makes a round lead- or co-lead–ready
    • •How founders earn follow-on capital and long-term support
    • •Common mistakes founders make when pitching early

    Whether you're a first-time founder, an operator preparing to fundraise, or scaling a B2B subscription company, this session offers practical, unfiltered insights straight from the investor's perspective.

    Speakers

    RH

    Rune Hven-Jensen

    General Partner | Ugly Duckling Ventures

    Experienced early-stage VC with deep expertise in evaluating Nordic B2B startups at pre-seed and seed stages. Shares firsthand insights on traction, founder qualities, and what makes a round lead-ready.

    NA

    Naimul Abd

    Moderator | Regional Director Nordics, Startup Grind

    CEO at Connect East, SweBAN, Nutty Ventures, and BRIM. Nordics lead for Founder Institute and Founders Live. Bringing deep ecosystem knowledge and connections within the Nordic startup and investment landscape.

    Don't Miss This Session

    Get practical, unfiltered insights on what it takes to get funded as a Nordic B2B founder.