Ex-Speedinvest partner Rick Hao closes $50m solo GP fund for deeptech startups

2026-07-01 · Source: Sifted · Field: Finance & Economics — Capital Markets & Investment Management, Entrepreneurship & Start-ups, Emerging Technologies & Innovation · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, quick

Summary

Rick Hao, a former partner at Speedinvest, has successfully closed a new \$50m solo GP fund named Ruya Ventures. This fund is dedicated to investing in deeptech startups worldwide, with a specific focus on Europe and the UK. Ruya Ventures plans to target seed-stage companies, deploying investments ranging from £250k to £1m into 15-20 startups. The fund's investment thesis spans critical areas such as batteries, semiconductors, robotics, AI, novel compute, industrial deeptech, AI infrastructure, quantum computing, and advanced materials. Hao, who previously led investments in companies like Tesseract and Carbon13, aims to provide "extremely hands-on" support to founders, assisting with commercialization, talent acquisition, and securing follow-on funding. He emphasizes Europe's growing strength as a deeptech hub, noting the need for patient capital and tailored support for these ventures.

Key takeaway

For deeptech founders seeking early-stage funding, Ruya Ventures' new \$50m fund presents a significant opportunity, particularly if you are based in Europe or the UK. You should prepare for a hands-on investment approach that prioritizes long-term development over quick returns. Focus your pitch on areas like industrial deeptech, AI infrastructure, or advanced materials, and be ready to discuss your needs for support beyond just capital, including commercialization and talent acquisition.

Key insights

Deeptech startups require patient capital and hands-on support, especially in Europe's growing ecosystem.

Principles

• Deeptech ventures need patient capital due to longer development cycles.
• Hands-on support is crucial for deeptech founders.
• Europe is emerging as a deeptech innovation hub.

Method

The article describes Ruya Ventures' investment strategy: target seed-stage deeptech startups globally (Europe/UK focus), invest £250k-£1m in 15-20 companies, and provide hands-on support for commercialization, talent, and follow-on funding.

In practice

• Focus on industrial deeptech and AI infrastructure.
• Explore quantum computing and advanced materials.
• Seek patient capital for long-term development.

Topics

• Deeptech Startups
• Venture Capital
• Ruya Ventures
• Seed Funding
• Europe Deeptech
• AI Infrastructure

Best for: Investor, Entrepreneur, Tech Journalist

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by Sifted.