henQ

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Overview

henQ is a venture capital firm founded in 2004 and headquartered in Amsterdam, Netherlands, specializing in early-stage investments in B2B software startups across Europe. It targets pre-seed to Series A rounds with ticket sizes from €1 million to €10 million, focusing on innovative founders in sectors like software, AI, SaaS, and deep tech. The firm is notable for its selective approach, investing in a limited number of companies annually to provide hands-on support in hiring, fundraising, and strategy, and has achieved exits such as Impraise and Aidence.¹⁴⁶

History

henQ was founded in 2004 by Coen van Duiven and Herman Hintzen, with additional partners including Jan Andriessen and Jelmer De Jong. The firm has raised multiple funds, including HenQ V launched in late 2025 with €67.57 million towards a €90 million target, marking its fifth fund after closing four previous ones like HenQ III in 2015. It has made 58 investments, with the last in November 2024, and several successful exits including Impraise and Aidence.¹⁵⁶

Notable Products

CloudTalk - Cloud-based call center software.
Mews - Hospitality property management system.
Malou - Restaurant marketing platform.
Stravito - Market research management tool.
Impraise - People enablement platform (exited).
Aidence - AI solution for radiologists (exited).

Reputation

henQ is perceived positively by founders and professionals for its focus on unconventional business models and deep involvement in portfolio companies, providing strategic support beyond capital. It is recognized for backing passionate founders in B2B software and achieving exits, though its selective investment pace limits broader market exposure. Critics note its regional emphasis on Europe may constrain global scale compared to larger VCs.¹²

Sources (6)