Those early days sparked an artistic spirit that still guides Maximilian von Aufschnaiter, a Marketing Manager for the DACH market at Reliance Group and our guest in this edition of #meettheteam. 

In this interview, Maximilian shares what he values most about his work at Reliance and reflects on how his years in South Tyrol and his life in Berlin shape the way he approaches marketing, blending calm reflection with urban energy and creativity with strategy. 

What sparked your interest in marketing in the first place? 

I grew up surrounded by creativity. My mother, an artist and graphic designer, and my father, a photographer, transformed our living room into a vibrant mix of an art studio and a photo lab. Brushes, colors, and cameras were part of my everyday life, and as kids, we spent countless hours drawing and painting together. That environment sparked an early passion for creativity in me. 

Years later, I discovered marketing through its digital side and realized it was the ideal way to blend my creative roots with my growing interest in strategy and systems. At first, I was focused on making things look visually appealing, but as time went on, my curiosity about why things work took over. This shift led me to dive deeper into the strategic and data-driven aspects of marketing. Now, I focus on building smart systems and automating processes to make campaigns more effective and impactful. 

Are you more of a “big-picture visionary” or a “details-matter” kind of person? 

“Big picture visionary” sounds like a big label. What I would say about myself is that I tend to focus more on the bigger picture, especially when it comes to strategy. I like to understand the overall direction and goals because if you know where you want to go it makes everything else clearer. But knowing the direction is not enough you also have to set things up properly and work through the details to get there. For me it is a mix of both keeping the focus on strategy while making sure the steps to get there are developed and executed well. So I would say I lean a little more toward the strategic side but I am definitely hands on when it comes to making sure it actually happens. 

What marketing trends excite you the most right now? 

In the last year, so much has changed in how we work. New technologies and opportunities have come up, especially around automation tools, no code solutions, and the whole AI sector in general. What I’m currently focused on is AI agents and hyper personalization. One of the hardest things in business is that there is never enough time for actual strategy. There are always a bunch of small repetitive tasks that eat up your day. What I like about AI agents is that they are really useful, they can handle those tasks for you, link up different tools, and adjust things on the fly based on data. That gives you more space to focus on the bigger stuff. 

The second trend I’m currently looking deeper into is hyper personalization. It’s really about showing people only what they actually care about. Instead of sending the same message to everyone, you use data and AI to make the message fit each person. This means looking at things like what they’ve done before, what they’re interested in, or what they need right now. The message then feels more relevant and personal, which makes people more likely to listen and engage. 

What’s your favorite part of being a Marketing Manager at Reliance Group? 

My favorite part of being in marketing at Reliance is definitely the culture of collaboration and trust. I really appreciate having the freedom to take ownership of my projects, come up with new ideas, and test them out. What makes it even better is working closely with colleagues from different countries and departments. It gives me a broader perspective, I’m always learning something new, and I get to see how marketing connects with the bigger picture of the company. 

Having lived in both South Tyrol and Berlin, would you say you’re more alpine calm or Berlin energy when it comes to your creative process? 

“I would say both the calm of the Alps and the energy of Berlin,” he reflects. Having lived in South Tyrol for a few years I learned the importance of slowing down and taking time to reflect whether it is hiking in the forest or simply enjoying nature’s quiet. I still visit South Tyrol regularly to see my mum, where I recharge and enjoy being in nature, which I sometimes miss in Berlin. 

At the same time, Berlin’s urban energy is very inspiring. Being around driven people and a fast-moving environment pushes me to stay focused, act quickly, and keep up with new ideas and opportunities. I also love trying new things and finding inspiration, which is something you find more of in Berlin than in South Tyrol. “So, I appreciate both worlds,” he smiles. 

You have a free weekend and no plans. What’s your ideal way to spend it? 

“It really depends on where I am, Berlin or South Tyrol,” he grins. 

If I am in Berlin, I would book a small cabin at Raus for the weekend. I would spend time in the kitchen trying out new recipes and enjoying simple meals. Afternoons might be for sitting outside sipping coffee and soaking up the quiet away from the usual city noise. The evenings are perfect for reading or just relaxing under the open sky. 

When I am in South Tyrol, the day usually starts with a hike through the forest, keeping an eye out for chanterelle mushrooms. Later I would go for a swim in the Kalterer See. As the day ends I would gather with friends around the stove, cooking a mushroom pan, sharing stories, together. 

What’s a quote that inspires Maximilian?

Whether he is cooking with friends in South Tyrol or testing new ideas at Reliance in Berlin, Maximilian brings the same mix of curiosity, creativity, and strategy to everything he does. His perspective adds a unique voice to our team, and we’re excited to continue sharing more stories like his in the upcoming editions of our #meettheteam series.

Read an interview with Franziska Haeßler here:

The fascination of venture capital – about innovation, investments, and big ideas:
Interview with Lukas Linn

The post Between alpine calm and Berlin buzz: Meet Maximilian von Aufschnaiter  first appeared on Reliance - Blog.

Born and raised in southwest Germany, Lukas has lived and worked across international innovation hubs like London, Copenhagen, Vienna, and the San Francisco Bay Area before landing in Berlin, a city he now calls home.

In this interview, he shares what excites him about working with early-stage companies, how California shaped his perspective, and why wellness help him reset after long days of venture building.

What excites you most about working with early-stage companies?

The energy, actually! Early-stage companies are driven by innovation, bold ideas, and a genuine desire to reshape the world for the better. I am inspired by the visionary thinking and passion that founders usually bring to the table. It is impressing that start-ups and scale-ups are able to spot trends early and challenge the status quo. And beyond that, the entrepreneurial spirit I encounter daily motivates me personally – it is a constant reminder of why I am in this field and fuels my own ambition to build something big one day!

What’s been one of your most rewarding moments at Reliance so far?

Over the past 1.5 years at Reliance Group, I have experienced many exciting & memorable moments. I really enjoy working with smart colleagues from different countries, forward-thinking founding teams, and visionary investors who ask the right questions.

But one of the most fulfilling milestones has been proving – through our recently launched business section in DACH and my newly created role – that impact investment platforms in Germany (and Europe, anyways!) can invest real equity. This is just the beginning of something bigger: enabling scale-ups to access growth capital in exchange for shares through an investment platform like ours. That is something truly new for the German-speaking market – and I am happy to help shape the new direction and drive this shift!

What first got you into the world of Venture Capital?

I have always been fascinated by start-ups, investments, and innovation. That interest guided my academic path – from writing my bachelor’s thesis on start-ups to pursuing a master’s in innovation management, combined with working student roles and projects in the European start-up ecosystem.

A key moment was my exchange semester in California – the world’s innovation capital. The experience was incredibly inspiring: from top-tier university lectures and professors to guest speakers like VCs and serial entrepreneurs. Company visits to tech giants like Airbnb, DocuSign, and Uber – once small start-ups themselves – made innovation feel tangible and real change possible.

Returning to Europe, I was eager to bring that mindset and inspiration back with me. I found the perfect opportunity for my master’s thesis and later a full-time position for several years at Europe’s first PropTech accelerator and the leading innovation platform in real estate. The role as Scouting & Investment Manager combined my passion for innovation, technology, investment, and the built world.

Now at Reliance Group in Berlin, I am heading the equity funding efforts for the DACH market – right at the intersection of start-ups, scale-ups, and investors. It is exactly where I see most potential when driving innovation forward: inside the start-up- & VC-ecosystem, helping outstanding innovators enter their next phase in their journey.

What motivated you to leave your hometown and make the move to Berlin, and how has the transition been so far?

Before moving to Berlin, I had the chance to live, study, and work in some amazing metropolises like London, Vienna, Copenhagen, and the San Francisco Bay Area. Just before COVID hit, I returned to Germany and spent most of my time between Mannheim (with my family) and Frankfurt (for work). After almost four great years, I felt it was time for a new chapter, in a place where all my interests come together: a big, international city, exciting opportunities, great people, and one of Europe’s leading start-up hubs. Berlin basically ticked all the boxes.

The transition has been going really well, and honestly, it has been a lot of fun. A few close friends were already living here, which made the early days – including the no-apartment phase (he laughs) – much easier. Since then, I have met a lot of new people, had a great start at Reliance with awesome colleagues, and joined more business events than I can count. And thanks to my constant curiosity (or slight FOMO), I have discovered a lot of what the city has to offer – though my Berlin to-do list somehow keeps getting longer… (he smiles)

What’s your favorite way to disconnect after a long day?

Definitely sports and wellness! After a long day (or short weekend… he grins), there is nothing better than a good workout, sometimes even with friends, followed by some real relaxation in the wellness area. Ideally with strong sauna infusions or a quiet steam bath. I take my sauna sessions very seriously (he smiles) – yes, I know the exact schedule in detail and the sauna masters know me quite well. It’s the perfect way to reset and recharge!

What’s a quote that inspires Lukas?

“Work hard, play hard.” Life is about balance – don’t let the pursuit of success make you forget the joy of living.

Lukas’ think-outside-the-box mindset and passion for building bridges between innovators & investors is as clear as his curiosity for new challenges (and Berlin’s endless to-do list). With his energy and willingness to question the status quo, he is helping shape the future of equity funding at invesdor, one venture at a time.

The post Start-ups, Serendipity, and Sauna Sessions: Meet Lukas Linn first appeared on Reliance - Blog.

In this interview, she shares honest insights into what it was like in the early days, what makes great leadership in a startup, and what she might be doing if finance hadn’t come calling.

Looking back at the early days, did you ever imagine Reliance would become what it is today?

No, I didn’t exactly think Reliance would one day become Europe’s go-to platform for impact investing. We started out as a small German startup with big dreams and the goal of reshaping SME financing.

I still remember nervously sitting in the ‘back room’ of one of our shareholders, probably never meant for actual work, waiting for our very first project to launch. There were maybe five of us, and everyone did a bit of everything: marketing before lunch, customer support after, and maybe cleaning the coffee machine in between.

Today, we’ve grown into a European company with a strong presence in four core markets and real experts in every area. The leap from local startup to international business came with a few bumps, but that mix of chaos, ambition, great people, and just enough caffeine during nightshifts (she smiles) helped us grow into who we are today.

What advice would you give to someone joining a startup today?

Be prepared for the unexpected, seriously. The most important skill in a startup isn’t coding, pitching, or even making great coffee (although that helps). It’s being able to adapt when the unexpected hits. I know that sounds like a motivational poster, but it’s true.

Thinking flexibly, being open to feedback, and never ever uttering the words “but we’ve always done it this way” is exactly the mindset you need in a startup. And that’s how we still work at Reliance today.

Change is the only constant. Yes, Heraclitus said it first, but we live it daily. And honestly, that’s what I love most about working at invesdor. No two days are alike. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, surprise! Something new lands in your inbox. Everyone at Reliance has embraced this mindset in their own way. It’s what enables us to push boundaries together, keep each other motivated, and achieve results for our customers that others would have given up on ages ago.

Obviously, it can be intense sometimes, but routine is far more draining for me than change will ever be.

What’s a leadership lesson you always carry with you?

Listen carefully! No skill is as underrated as genuine listening. Really, most problems don’t arise because people don’t talk, but because others don’t actually listen.

Usually, people tell you exactly what’s bothering them, what they need, or how you could help. It’s all there, loud and clear. You just have to resist the urge to start composing a clever reply in your head before they’ve even finished their sentence.

Sure, leadership is also about balancing interests and finding compromises, just like in relationships, family dinners, or group holidays. But making your team feel heard, seen, and genuinely taken seriously? That’s the core of good leadership, at least in my book.

And honestly, this isn’t just about the office. It applies just as much when you’re grilling with friends (“yes, your tofu sausage matters too”), in a relationship (“yes, I am listening this time”), or dealing with a grumpy government clerk.

If you take a moment to really listen and show a bit of empathy, most problems dissolve faster than you can say “Was that so hard?”

If you weren’t working in finance, what would you be doing?

Sometimes I joke in the office that if I weren’t working at invesdor, I’d probably be in the secret service (she laughs), you know, trench coat, sunglasses, mysterious phone calls, the full package.

Because honestly, if there’s one thing I’m good at, it’s finding missing information and connecting the dots. No matter how well something is hidden, give me a hint and a cup of coffee, and I’ll track it down.

Maybe it’s no coincidence that I have a soft spot for spy movies and political thrillers. The mix of classified intel, shadowy alliances, and high-stakes decision-making? That’s totally my thing, minus the car chases. Usually.

If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be?

Dr. Oppenheimer. I was deeply moved by the recent film, especially his inner conflict between scientific innovation and moral responsibility. As someone who also strives to act with good intentions, I’d love to discuss how decisions can ripple through a lifetime… ideally over a glass of wine.

What’s a quote that inspires you?

“You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” – Mahatma Gandhi

Our conversation with Franziska is a reminder that startups grow on passion, adaptability, and strong leadership. Stay tuned for more stories from the people behind invesdor, the ones making impact investing happen every day.

The post From a small German startup to a leading European platform: Meet Franziska Haeßler first appeared on Reliance - Blog.

1. What forms of securities are there and how reliable are they? 

Typical forms are guarantees and collateral such as 

• mortgages on land or pledges of machinery, 
• assignments of receivables or 
• floating charges.   

The importance of security arrangements depends on the investment model: in non-subordinated projects, they play a more important role than in subordinated projects, where security arrangements are usually not possible. 

In addition, we usually cannot check the value of the collateral or the economic capacity of the guarantor and the value of the collateral or the guarantee can fluctuate. As a result, there is a risk that, in the worst case, investors will not receive any repayments despite the ordering and realisation of collateral or guarantees in the event of the failure of the project. 

We therefore recommend: Read the key investment information sheet carefully for each project. It contains information on whether security arrangements are provided in the project.

2. Examples of securities from practice 

What collateral has been used in various Reliance campaigns in the past? The following examples from different industries and countries show how different these can look: 

Megin (medical technology): Second rank floating charge on the assets of the project owner.  
(https://www.reliancetrade.org/projekte/c244d249-74e3-4d89-a147-3b479f5cc49d#/)  

Bamboologic (Agriculture): A mortgage on a plot of land in Portugal serves as security.  
(https://www.reliancetrade.org/projekte/b57d633d-ee1c-49ba-8f44-ec75f95f25d9#/) 

The form of security arrangement strongly depends on the individual case. It is worth taking a close look at which values have been specifically deposited and how plausible their usability appears in an emergency

3. From subordinate to securable models 

In the past, Reliance in Germany was mostly limited by law to brokering qualified subordinated loans. In the case of subordinated loans, investors are only served in the event of insolvency after all creditors have received their money – a significantly higher risk. In the case of qualified subordinated loans, investors have even less chance of enforcing their claims in the event of non-payment by the company, even before any insolvency. 

Today, we mainly finance with non-subordinated financial instruments, in which investors hold a stronger legal position. These models allow us, where appropriate and possible, to include collateral/guarantee that can potentially reduce the risk of default (the actual value of a security ultimately depends on the proceeds from the realisation of a security). 

Investors should therefore check carefully with each investment whether and which security arrangement exists and what rank the respective financing has. 

How can I judge the security arrangement of a project myself? 

Read the issue terms, the key investment information sheet and information on the campaign page carefully. Check what kind of securities are mentioned and whether it seems sufficient to you from the investor’s point of view. 

Conclusion: Security arrangements for investments

Security arrangements in crowdfunding are complex and can never be assessed across the board. What we do at invesdor: create transparency, clearly identify risks and always try to achieve the best possible level of security for our investors. Each campaign contains information on possible security arrangements. And we are constantly working to make them it even more understandable. 

 
Find out now about our current investment projects and discover sustainable investments that match your values.

The post How safe is my investment? Overview of security arrangements at invesdor  first appeared on Reliance - Blog.

What is impact investing?

Impact investing should not be mistaken for charity. Impact investing is a financial strategy that aims to generate positive, measurable social and environmental impact alongside a financial return. Unlike traditional investing, where the primary focus is on maximizing profits, impact investing intentionally targets investments that address global challenges such as climate change, poverty, and inequality.

Impact Europe declared in November 2024 that the European private impact investing market has reached $190bn. At Reliance we can see that the interest from private investors to choose impact investment opportunities is on a steady rise across all markets.

How you can do impact investing at invesdor

Reliance is one of the leading impact investment platforms in Europe, that offers opportunities for individuals and institutions to invest in impactful cases and benefit financially while doing good. By connecting investors with innovative companies that align with ESG principles and contribute to the SDGs, we facilitate investments that support sustainable development. Learn more about how we implement ESGs and SDGs.

What to look for on invesdor’s platform

• Look for the Impact Investment -label on the funding round’s presentation page.
• Look at the Impact listed on the project presentation page. We show you on the funding round’s presentation page which SDGs the company is contributing to.
• Choose funding rounds that align with your investment strategy and causes that are important to you, whether it be green energy, combating water scarcity or recycling waste materials to new purposes.

Impact funding rounds at invesdor

Reliance has had several impact funding rounds over the years. The ESGs and SDGs are important and are considered a central part of the due diligence process.

ESGs and SDGs are at the core of invesdor’s funding round selection process

invesdor’s impact investing framework is deeply rooted in ESG and SDG principles.

ESG Integration: All funding rounds listed on invesdor undergo evaluation based on environmental, social, and governance criteria. This ensures that investments align with sustainable practices and ethical governance standards.

• Environmental: Projects are assessed for their impact on reducing emissions, promoting clean energy, and conserving resources.
• Social: Investments target initiatives that promote community well-being, equality, and social justice.
• Governance: Companies are evaluated for transparency, accountability, and ethical management.

SDG Alignment: Reliance aligns its investment opportunities with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. For example:

• Windpark Friesland contributes to SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
• E-Heat supports SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).
• RiverRecycle advances SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).

What investors need to know

Impact investing offers a powerful way to align financial goals with a desire to make a difference in the world. At invesdor, investors can access a range of impactful opportunities, from clean energy projects to innovative waste management solutions. With a focus on ESG criteria and SDG alignment, Reliance provides a transparent and purpose-driven platform for sustainable investments.

By choosing impact investing, you’re not only pursuing financial returns but also contributing to a better future for our planet – this is what we call double return.

The post Impact investing: What investors need to know first appeared on Reliance - Blog.

1. Keep a Cool Head 

In economically stormy weather, it’s tempting to react emotionally. However, such reactions are not always beneficial. Market downturns are unpleasant but part of the investing journey. Those who act out of fear often miss the recovery that follows shortly after. In times like these, calmness and patience are your greatest allies. 

2. Diversify – stay close to home

Diversification is essential in any market, but especially when volatility is high. By spreading your investments across different sectors, regions, and types of companies, you limit risk and increase your chance of stable returns. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket — build a well-balanced, resilient portfolio. But diversification doesn’t always mean going global. In fact, focusing on stable, locally rooted companies can be a smart move — especially now. 

That’s why Reliance offers direct investments in Northern European companies — businesses that are not only based here but also generate most of their revenue within the region. These are companies you can understand, support, and grow with. Unlike many stock-listed multinationals with high exposure to global uncertainty, our companies are anchored in local economies and have a strong regional focus. 

3. Look Beyond the Stock Market

One of the advantages of direct investing is the ability to invest in non-listed, local companies — businesses that are not subject to daily stock market fluctuations and short-term investor sentiment. These companies, often rooted in local European communities, tend to have a long-term focus and sustainable growth ambitions. By supporting them, you’re investing in the strength and resilience of the (Northern) European economy. 

4. Invest in Sustainable Companies

Sustainable businesses — those focused not just on profit but also on people and the planet — often prove more resilient in uncertain times. These companies build for the long term, maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, and take a future-focused approach. Especially now, it’s worthwhile to support businesses that aim to make the world a better place. 

In Conclusion: Think Long-Term 

Economic shocks are often temporary. A well-diversified portfolio, on the other hand, is built to last. Don’t get caught up in the noise of the moment. History shows that markets tend to recover after periods of turmoil. At invesdor, we help you invest directly in companies that matter — close to home, with a long-term vision. Stay calm, stay close, and invest wisely. 

The post Direct investing in Turbulent Times: Stay Calm and Diversify  first appeared on Reliance - Blog.

What is B Corp?

B Corp stands for ‘Benefit Corporation’ and is a certification that allows you, as a company, to show that you actually do business in a socially responsible way. Oneplanetcrowd obtained its B Corp certification for the first time in March 2016. Obtaining the prestigious certificate is not easy and an intensive process precedes the award. Indeed, in addition to adding financial value, B Corp companies must make a demonstrable impact on people and the environment. The B Corp certificate shows that a company is not just pretending to be sustainable and is not greenwashing. At a time when sustainability is becoming increasingly important, this is a valuable, reliable certification. 

In March, during B Corp month, many certified B Corporations join forces to increase visibility and awareness around corporate social responsibility. So that in the future, more and more companies follow suit to reduce their footprint and take people and the environment into consideration.

How does a company become B Corp certified?  

Companies get B Corp certification only when they meet the high standards set for their social and environmental impact and must account for it. This includes looking at community, customer, environmental, governance and employee impacts. To become a B Corp, an organization must go through an Impact certification process. The questions relate to sustainability in its broadest sense. In the process, a company must score at least 80 out of a possible 200 points. And that’s not easy. To illustrate, worldwide 55% of companies that complete the questionnaire do not receive the certification.  

Once a company is B Corp certified, they are required to communicate transparently about their score. A B Corp certificate must be renewed annually: thus, companies can lose the certificate even if they no longer meet the strict conditions. In this way, the seal retains its value and authority.  

Which companies are B Corp certified?  

The B Corp certificate has been awarded by the American non-profit organization B Lab since 2006. In the Netherlands and Belgium, the first companies in Europe received their certification in 2015. This number has since grown to about 1,100 companies in Europe, of which more than 200 are based in the Netherlands. Worldwide, there are more than 6,000 B Corp companies in 80 countries.  

Reliance Netherlands (formerly Oneplanetcrowd) has been B Corp certified since 2016. In February 2025, the entire Reliance Group received the certification. Together with our investors, we have provided funding to several leading B Corps in recent years, including Kipster, Fairphone, Yoni, Moyee, Snappcar, Mud Jeans, and Seepje. Other well-known B Corps include Tony’s Chocolonely, Triodos Bank, WeTransfer, and Dopper.

Sustainable soap producer Seepje ‘challenged’ by B Corp certification

Reliance helped sustainable soap product Seepje raise their funding in 2014 and 2017. Back then, they were already working hard to make the world a little cleaner and more beautiful by making laundry detergent, all-purpose cleaner and hand soap from soap husks from India and Nepal. Not only should the packaging and the product be sustainable, but also the people in India and Nepal should benefit.  

Jasper Gabriëlse, co-founder of Seepje, spoke to the editors of The Entrepreneur about their journey to achieving B Corp certification. “We see B Corp as a comprehensive assessment of our impact on all fronts. During the first assessment we scored 84.2 points, but we make it a sport to reach 100. The great thing about B Corp is that it inspires and challenges us to make the company even better,” said Jasper. 

The future as B Corp 

We are looking forward to a future in which we will continue to encourage our crowd to invest in strong B Corp brands. If you want to stay informed about our B Corp opportunities, sign up for our newsletter and follow us on the socials.

The post Impact & Investing: Reliance Group receives B Corp certification first appeared on Reliance - Blog.

Why is now the right time to expand into the loan market?

The Finnish loan market is undergoing a transformation. Many companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, have faced challenges in accessing traditional bank financing. This is largely due to stricter banking regulations that have limited companies’ ability to secure the funding they need. At the same time, private investors are looking for new and diversified investment opportunities.

An international perspective on lending

At invesdor, we’ve been active in international markets for a long time. Now, we are addressing a gap in the Finnish market. Finnish loan products have not previously been easily accessible to Finnish private investors.

Megin’s funding round has already generated significant interest from both Finnish and international investors. The round has been open for just one day, and the company has already raised over $500,000.

Since early 2023, Reliance has provided investors with opportunities to diversify their portfolios with European companies. Now, we are enabling Finnish companies to offer bonds not only to domestic investors but also to international ones.

Competitive returns for investors

The weak performance of the Helsinki Stock Exchange has driven investors to look for new ways to grow their portfolios in a challenging economic environment. The loan market can offer attractive alternatives with competitive interest rates. For private investors, the challenges have often been the accessibility of loan investments, high minimum investments, or high fees associated with funds.

Through invesdor, investors can decide for themselves which companies, industries, and countries they want to invest in. We have intentionally kept the minimum investment for funding rounds as low as possible to ensure broad participation. This also enables investors to effectively diversify their portfolios through our platform. You can join Megin Oy’s funding round with as little as $250.

The post Finally, a Finnish Bond Offering! first appeared on Reliance - Blog.

It is in invesdor’s DNA to support companies on their growth journey and enable private investors to invest directly in companies they believe in. We love to witness our portfolio companies achieve remarkable milestones and celebrate alongside our investors. Here are some recent highlights from four of our portfolio companies:

RiverRecycle was recognized as the Most Impactful Company in Finland 2024 by ARVO ry (Finnish Association for Social Enterprises), a testament to their groundbreaking work in creating sustainable solutions for cleaner waterways. RiverRecycle gathered $1.2M from 496 investors in May 2024.

PeelPioneers, known for their eco-friendly food waste solutions, has claimed spot 72 on Sifted 75 Fastest Growing Startups in Europe. A fantastic achievement for a company reshaping sustainability in the food industry. PeelPioneers gathered $3.5M from 1,298 investors in September 2024.

Koite Health and Parking Energy have been listed on Deloitte’s Fast50 Finland 2024 ranking, securing spots at 22 and 30 respectively. This highlights their impressive growth and appreciation for their technological innovations. Koite Health gathered $1.4M from 380 investors in October 2023 and Parking Energy gathered $1M in July 2018 from 202 investors.

Heeros, a pioneer in digital financial administration, has received a public tender offer from Accountor Software. Heeros completed their first funding round with Reliance in 2015 followed by their IPO with Reliance as the suscription platform one year later in 2016. This generated a 15 % return within 12 months for the investors.

These milestones highlight the incredible growth journey of our portfolio companies, and we’re honored to have been part of their story. We can’t wait to see what they’ll achieve next!

Sign up to our newsletter to hear the latest news and have a look at our open investment opportunities and help build tomorrow’s success stories.

The post Good news from our portfolio companies first appeared on Reliance - Blog.

invesdor’s growth journey

Reliance was founded in 2012 in Helsinki and the first funding rounds are offered in Finland. In 2022 Reliance Group is formed by a merger of invesdor, Kapilendo and Finnest. Reliance Group hereby becomes one of the largest investment and crowdfunding platforms in Europe. In 2023 our focus on sustainable investment opportunities is established with the merger of Oneplanetcrowd.  

Today Reliance serves all of Europe with offices in Germany, Finland and the Netherlands. We are able to present exciting investment opportunities for investors and raise European capital for companies cross-border thanks to our ECSP license, that we obtained in early 2023. Our network of over 180 000 investors has embraced the opportunity to invest in companies outside of their country of residence. In our recent funding round the Dutch company HalloStroom was funded by 808 investors from 19 countries. 

2024 is off to a good start as we have been honored to announce two new partnerships: the GICA network and Finnish Business Angles Network FiBAN.  

Reliance has continually pushed boundaries while driving innovation and facilitating growth opportunities for all stakeholders. We believe that profitability and sustainability have synergy effects and complement each other. Read more about our mission and vision.

An assortment of Reliance success stories

Reliance has had several success stories over our 12 years of business and it’s not fair to pick favorites. Here’s an assortment of recent success stories from all of our regions.  

Finnish MedTech company Koite Health raised 1,4 million euro by 380 investors in the October 2023. Koite Health has developed and commercially launched Lumoral, which kills 99.99% of the harmful bacteria in the mouth.  The entire Lumoral treatment process can be done at home and takes less than 15 minutes. Since the market entry in 2020, more than 10,000 Lumorals have been sold and Koite Health has doubled its revenues every year. 

Dutch company HalloStroom raised 2 million euro in a matter of days in March 2024. HalloStroom provides an affordable and hassle-free solution for homeowners to generate and store their own sustainable energy. HalloStroom already leases solar panels to some 13.000 private homeowners and has now started to lease out home battery systems to their customers. The 808 investors signed up for 8.5% interest for a two-year bond duration. 

German fast-casual restaurant chain Beets & Roots GmbH is a true Reliance alumni with five funding rounds on our platform. In their most recent round in January 2024 Beets & Roots offered equity for the first time and raised 1,5 million euro by 332 investors. 

Austrian company Narzissendorf Zloam offers a holistic & sustainable tourism concept in one of Austria’s most beautiful region. One of the special features of the concept is that 100% of the accommodation units have already been sold to private investors and are now being leased back on a long-term basis.197 investors raised 500 000 euro in return of 8% interest of a loan period of 5 years. 

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Invest in our 1000th project: Riverrecycle Oy

RiverRecycle, founded in Helsinki in 2019, combats ocean plastic pollution with financially sustainable solutions. They collect over 3 million kg/year of waste from rivers globally. The collected plastic waste is converted into boards and waste-derived oils, which can be used as construction or raw materials. RiverRecycle generates revenue from CSR sales and plastic credit trading.

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