Startup Wise Guys
AcceleratorTallinn Β· Pre-SeedβSeed Β· 5 people tracked
Investment thesis
Startup Wise Guys backs early-stage B2B startups, aiming to be the first international check for overlooked founders in emerging markets, particularly across CEE and CIS regions. Through vertical-focused accelerator programs, it provides funding, tailored mentorship, and access to an international community spanning five continents, helping founders reach product-market fit, scale MRR, and gain easier access to future international fundraising. Since 2012, the firm has run 45+ programs and supported over 800 founders from more than 60 countries, with portfolio companies achieving multiple exits and significant follow-on funding.
Source: firm website, verified Aug 3, 2026.
Team Β· 5 people
from the firm's website & public directoriesWhat they invest in
from 3 of 15 portfolio companiesAI & Machine Learning Γ3AgTech Γ1Climate Tech Γ1Cybersecurity Γ1Defense Tech Γ1Enterprise Software Γ1GovTech Γ1Marketing Tech Γ1
HQs:United StatesΓ1
Portfolio companies Β· 15 tracked
alumni founders can tell you what the program is really likeLetsData develops Vantage, a platform for detecting coordinated disinformation and information operations by monitoring the infrastructure and machinery behind narratives rather than just keywords or content.
AI & Machine LearningCybersecurityDefense TechGovTech
Ksenia Iliuk(Co-founder)Andriy Kusyy(Co-founder)
Hi-tech software for decision-making process management using scientific approaches and advanced algorithms to improve decision quality.
Aims to improve real estate development through collaboration.
Online manufacturing marketplace for metalwork.
Tax compliance platform providing a one-stop-shop for VAT calculation and payment in 57 countries for e-commerce companies selling globally.
AI orchestration platform (Dot) that integrates multiple AI models and business tools like ERP, CRM, and CMS into existing workflows.
Security software and dashboard for IT risk managers to verify configurations, detect changes, and get notified of security compliance violations for business devices.
SenseGrass develops geospatial AI tools for agriculture, environment, and urban planning sectors to support sustainability and conservation through data-driven analysis.
AgTechAI & Machine LearningClimate TechSan Mateo, US
Process documentation tool; acquired by UiPath in 2019.
Farm management system (exited)
Video editing app; acquired by Pinterest in 2021.
Frequently asked questions
- What stage does Startup Wise Guys invest at?
- Startup Wise Guys invests at the Pre-Seed, Seed stages.
- What is Startup Wise Guys's typical check size?
- Startup Wise Guys typically writes checks of $100K β $500K.
- What sectors does Startup Wise Guys focus on?
- Startup Wise Guys focuses on Crypto & Web3, Cybersecurity, Defense Tech, Enterprise Software, Fintech, PropTech, SaaS, Sector Agnostic.
- Where is Startup Wise Guys located?
- Startup Wise Guys is headquartered in Tallinn, EE.
- Does Startup Wise Guys lead rounds?
- Startup Wise Guys typically participates in rounds rather than leading them.
Media Β· Podcasts & interviews
featuring the teamExploring Startup Dynamics: Insights from Alexandra Balkova, Head of Portfolio at Startup Wise Guys
Nordic Fintech Magazine Β· Alexandra Balkova
Value Is the New Currency | Alexandra Balkova, Startup Wise Guys | BRP #104
The Business Room Β· Alexandra Balkova
Global accelerator funds for passionate B2B startup founders | Cristobal Alonso - Startup Wise Guys
Tekpon Β· Cristobal Alonso
ECSOSTARtupAward | π Cristobal Alonso, Chief Executive Officer at Startup Wise Guys
Cyberzaintza Β· Cristobal Alonso
#112 The Memo: Startup Wise Guys, Cristobal Alonso - Fractory
The European VC Β· Cristobal Alonso
#84 The memo: Startup Wise Guys, Cristobal Alonso
The European VC Β· Cristobal Alonso
Images
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