Cardumen Capital: A Global Venture Capital and Asset Management Leader
In the rapidly evolving landscape of technology, finance, and entrepreneurship, venture capital firms play a crucial role in shaping innovation. One such influential player is Cardumen Capital, a global venture capital and asset management company headquartered in Madrid, Spain. Since its foundation in 2018, Cardumen Capital has positioned itself as a bridge between Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, connecting world-class founders with the resources and expertise required to transform cutting-edge ideas into successful enterprises. With a strong focus on deep technology, innovation, and sustainability, the firm continues to build a reputation as one of the most dynamic venture capital firms in the international market.
The Origins of Cardumen Capital
Cardumen Capital was founded in 2018 with a clear vision: to support exceptional founders who are building technologies that will shape the future of society and business. The name itself reflects agility and collective strength, much like a school of fish moving in harmony toward a shared destination.
From the beginning, the company’s strategy has been to connect European and Israeli innovation ecosystems with global markets. With offices in Madrid and Tel Aviv, and a presence across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, Cardumen Capital has developed a cross-border approach that differentiates it from traditional regional venture funds.
Headquarters and Global Presence
The main headquarters of Cardumen Capital is located in Madrid, Spain, at Calle Velázquez 100, in the prestigious Salamanca district. The Madrid base allows the firm to remain connected to the European entrepreneurial ecosystem while also managing its global activities.
The firm has also established strong roots in Israel, a global hub for technology and innovation, particularly in areas such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and deep technology. By operating in these two centres of excellence, Cardumen Capital creates powerful synergies for portfolio companies, investors, and partners.
Assets Under Management and Investment Scale
Cardumen Capital manages more than €300 million in Assets Under Management (AUM). This capital is distributed across several funds and strategies, each designed to target high-growth sectors and long-term opportunities.
The firm typically invests in early-stage companies, where its involvement and expertise can significantly influence growth trajectories. Initial investments often range between $750,000 and $1.5 million, with follow-on investments available as companies scale. This flexibility allows Cardumen Capital to support entrepreneurs from seed stage through later growth phases.
Investment Strategies
Cardumen Capital has developed three core investment strategies to reflect its diverse approach to venture capital and asset management.
DeepTech Investments
At the heart of Cardumen Capital’s philosophy is a commitment to DeepTech. These investments focus on groundbreaking technologies that combine hardware, software, and science to solve complex problems. Areas of interest include:
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Artificial Intelligence (AI)
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Computer Vision
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Cybersecurity
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Big Data analytics
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Advanced hardware and software combinations
The DeepTech fund invests in Israeli start-ups, many of which are recognised as global leaders in their respective domains.
AgriFoodTech
Cardumen Capital also runs a dedicated AgriFoodTech Fund, which targets early-stage European companies aiming to transform the food and agricultural value chain. This strategy reflects the firm’s commitment to sustainability and societal impact. Portfolio companies in this space are working on plant-based proteins, food delivery innovations, and technologies that optimise agricultural production.
Examples from the AgriFoodTech portfolio include companies developing plant-based seafood alternatives and innovative food service platforms.
Fund of Funds and Private Assets
In addition to direct venture capital investments, Cardumen Capital manages a Fund of Funds strategy. This approach provides investors with diversified exposure to private markets, while also incorporating impact investing principles. By doing so, Cardumen Capital contributes to global innovation while maintaining a strong focus on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations.
Portfolio Highlights
Cardumen Capital has invested in more than 40 portfolio companies spanning multiple sectors. While each investment reflects the firm’s commitment to deep technology and global impact, a few examples illustrate its approach:
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Spotlight – A sales intelligence platform using advanced analytics.
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Oshi – A start-up producing plant-based seafood alternatives.
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Tasty Urban – Innovating in food delivery and kitchen optimisation.
Each company benefits from Cardumen Capital’s hands-on investment style, which goes beyond providing capital to include strategic guidance, operational support, and access to networks.
Culture and Values
One of the distinguishing features of Cardumen Capital is its culture of radical collaboration. The firm describes itself as “the most active investor on your cap table,” meaning it seeks to be more than just a financial backer. Entrepreneurs can expect ongoing support in hiring, business development, and strategic decision-making.
Cardumen Capital also promotes a hybrid workplace culture. Employees are encouraged to use common sense in balancing professional performance with personal lives, with a typical on-site presence of around 90%. This approach reflects the company’s belief in flexibility and trust as essential elements of productivity.
Team and Leadership
The leadership of Cardumen Capital brings together decades of experience in venture capital, private equity, and technology ecosystems. Notable figures include:
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Igor de la Sota – Founder and General Partner, with extensive experience in international investment strategies.
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Gonzalo Martínez de Azagra – Partner, contributing expertise in cross-border innovation.
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Enrique Burguillos – Chief Financial Officer, responsible for financial oversight.
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Gil Gidron – Chairman, providing strategic guidance.
The team combines local expertise with global networks, ensuring that portfolio companies benefit from both regional insight and international reach.
Official Website: https://www.cardumencapital.com
Industry Positioning
Cardumen Capital operates within the Venture Capital and Private Equity Principals industry, but its approach sets it apart. By integrating traditional venture investing with asset management and impact strategies, the firm offers a comprehensive model for both entrepreneurs and investors.
Its focus on AI, cybersecurity, big data, and open innovation reflects some of the most pressing and promising areas of technological development today. This positioning makes Cardumen Capital a sought-after partner for start-ups and corporates alike.
Why Cardumen Capital Stands Out
Several factors explain why Cardumen Capital has become a notable player in just a few years:
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Cross-Border Strategy – Bridging Europe and Israel with global markets.
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Hands-On Involvement – Active participation in the growth of portfolio companies.
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Diverse Strategies – Balancing DeepTech, AgriFoodTech, and Fund of Funds investments.
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Impact Orientation – Commitment to sustainability and ESG principles.
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Experienced Team – Leadership with deep connections in global tech ecosystems.
Conclusion
Since its foundation in 2018, Cardumen Capital has rapidly established itself as a powerful force in global venture capital and asset management. With more than €300 million under management, a diverse portfolio of over 40 companies, and a strong presence in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, the firm exemplifies the modern face of venture capital.
By combining deep technological focus with sustainability, hands-on support, and a collaborative culture, Cardumen Capital continues to empower founders and investors to shape the future. Its role as a bridge between regions and ecosystems makes it uniquely positioned to influence the evolution of global technology and innovation.
