HTGF, one of the leading and most active early-stage investors in Germany and Europe, has appointed Gregor Haidl and Dr. Nik Raupp as Partners, effective January 1, 2026. With these appointments, HTGF strategically strengthens its investment expertise in two core areas: Industrial & Deep Tech as well as Life Sciences & Chemistry.
Over the past years, both investment professionals have significantly driven deal flow in their respective sectors, closely supported portfolio companies, and advanced key strategic initiatives. Their promotion to Partner underscores HTGF’s ambition to support founding teams not only with capital, but as hands-on sparring partners with deep technical expertise, entrepreneurial understanding, and access to a strong industrial network. The goal is to help build tomorrow’s market leaders shaping Europe’s industrial and technological future.
Gregor Haidl: Driving Industrial Software and AI as Catalysts for Transformation
Gregor Haidl has been with HTGF since 2017 and is responsible for investments in Industrial, Climate, and Deep Tech. His focus is on complex B2B software and AI solutions for R&D, automation, and energy. Trained as a mechanical engineer at TU Munich and a graduate of the UnternehmerTUM “Manage & More” program, Gregor brings extensive international experience, including time at BMW Brilliance Automotive in China.
In 2023, he co-founded HTGF’s Munich office and has since closely integrated it into the regional startup and innovation ecosystem. Since 2025, Gregor has served as Head of HTGF Munich. His portfolio includes startups such as Neural Concept (AI-driven product design and engineering), SimScale (cloud-native simulation software), and viboo (intelligent building automation).
“What motivates me is the question of how complex technologies turn into commercially successful products and scalable companies. Especially at the early stage, there is no playbook. This makes strong product management practices and close support on the path to first product-market fit all the more critical. As a Partner, I want to continue to help founders turn strong technical ideas into globally competitive champions.”
Gregor Haidl, Partner at HTGF
“Gregor combines deep technical expertise with a genuine founder mindset. He has positioned our Munich office exceptionally well and is a key driver of the fund’s strategic development.”
Romy Schnelle, Managing Director at HTGF
Dr. Nik Raupp: Chemistry Expertise for Sustainable Innovation
Dr. Nik Raupp leads the expansion of HTGF’s activities in Chemistry and Industrial Biotechnology, with a focus on sustainable innovations, advanced materials, and circular economy solutions. He began his career in consulting and earned a PhD on venture capital financing of biotech companies in Japan. Before joining HTGF in 2021, he worked for BASF in Hong Kong, among other roles.
Nik is also a key contact for fund investors from the chemical industry and is closely involved in HTGF’s fundraising activities. His investments include EEDEN (chemical textile recycling), COLIPI (biotechnology-based oil alternatives), and Nebula Biocides (novel disinfection technologies). He has played a central role in sharpening HTGF’s profile as a leading investor in chemistry.
“Chemistry technologies often require a long runway before they are ready for industrial deployment. That is exactly what excites me. Working with founders to bridge the gap between lab, industrial application, and capital markets creates real and sustainable impact.”
Dr. Nik Raupp, Partner at HTGF
“Nik joined us as an experienced industry expert and quickly built a strong, forward-looking portfolio. He is our face in the chemical industry, a trusted partner for our investors, and a true team player.”
Dr. Achim Plum, Managing Director at HTGF