Venturewave Capital News 2020 — Media Highlights (July – December)

The second half of 2020 was pivotal for Venturewave Capital. From securing key investors to deploying capital into impactful startups like DropChef, Venturewave solidified its position in the impact investing space. This report captures a timeline of significant media moments and achievements.

26th June 2020 – Venturewave Capital’s €20m Fund Close

The Irish Times: “U2 members back new tech fund”. U2’s Adam Clayton and The Edge, Anne Heraty, and Stanley Quek backed the initial €20 million close of the Impact Ireland Fund, supporting Venturewave Capital’s mission to finance socially driven ventures.

10th July 2020 – FT Moral Money Interviews Venturewave

Financial Times: “Irish impact investor picks up where philanthropy left off”. Managing Partner Kieran McLoughlin discussed how diaspora capital supports impact investing and why Venturewave Capital’s 2020 news reflects a shift from philanthropy to sustainable finance.

15th September 2020 – Leadership Strengthens at Venturewave Capital

Former Blueface executives Alan Foy and Brian Martin were appointed as Managing Partners, enhancing leadership capacity during strategic scaling. Their operational experience, especially in fast-growing tech sectors, reinforced the fund’s ability to identify, back, and guide high-potential ventures.

23rd October 2020 – Celebrity Investors Join the Fund

The Irish Times: “Liam Neeson among new investors backing €100m Ireland Impact Fund”. The fund gained attention from new investors, including Liam Neeson, Mary Ann O’Brien, and Stephen Vernon. These backers signalled a strong belief in Ireland’s role as a global hub for innovation and sustainability.

9th November 2020 – Venturewave Invests €2m in DropChef

The Irish Times: “DropChef secures €2m”. This strategic investment supports SDG-aligned solutions in sustainable food and health. Board appointments include Brian Martin and Bobby Kerr. DropChef’s model empowers consumers to make healthy dietary choices and supports local producers through efficient, low-waste logistics.

“Consumers want to eat healthily, but often can’t find convenient and environmentally friendly options. DropChef solves this problem, and we’re proud to support Ryan, Roman, and Sam.” — Brian Martin

International Media Mentions

29 June • CNBC: “U2 band members invest in Irish tech fund” — reflecting global attention on Venturewave Capital news 2020 and its international relevance.

10 July • FT Moral Money: Feature article on impact capital from the Irish diaspora.

Why 2020 Mattered for Venturewave Capital

The activities and recognition of Venturewave Capital in 2020 illustrate the growing importance of impact venture capital, which delivers both returns and measurable impact. The Impact Ireland Fund’s early fundraising success, high-profile investor backing, and SDG-aligned investment strategy helped define best practices in the European impact investing space.