The Prague- and Krakow-based firm aims to remain the first cheque for ambitious Central and Eastern European founders, building on a track record that includes UiPath and ElevenLabs.
Today, Credo Ventures announces Credo Stage 5, a $88 million fund that continues the firm’s mission to be the first backer of the most ambitious CEE founders globally, both in the CEE region and in diaspora communities.
Credo Ventures is a Prague and Krakow-based venture capital firm founded in 2010, investing in exceptional founders from Central and Eastern Europe and their diaspora at the earliest stages.
Credo is doubling down on the Pre-Seed niche in CEE, where its track record, deep local networks, and unique investing culture give it an edge.
The partners of the fund include: Maciek Gnutek, Jakub Krikava, Max Kolowrat-Krakowsky, Matej Micek, Ondrej Bartos and Jan Habermann.
Over 15 years and across 4 funds, Credo has backed 100+ companies, including 2 decacorns, making it one of the most successful early-stage VC firms in Europe. Credo co-led or led the pre-seed rounds of two of the fastest-growing category-defining companies originating in CEE – UiPath and ElevenLabs. Credo is now launching their 5th fund – Credo Stage 5.
According to the firm, Credo Ventures positions itself as a first-cheque investor backing the most ambitious founders from Central and Eastern Europe and its diaspora.
“We partner with the best founders from CEE and its diaspora, being the first check in their companies. We seek serious technical builders with global ambitions and work closely with them.”
The firm highlights the scale of the opportunity, pointing to a region of 170 million people and a combined GDP of $2 trillion, alongside a strong track record of producing high-quality technical talent. Credo also underscores its early role in backing breakout companies from the region.
“CEE has already produced global outliers such as UiPath and ElevenLabs, where Credo was the first cheque and (co-)lead investor in both cases. While the ecosystem is maturing, fragmentation and cultural divergence remain significant barriers for outsiders—creating a structural advantage for us.”
The firm points to the strength of the CEE diaspora — particularly in hubs like San Francisco and London — as a key sourcing advantage.
“The CEE tech diaspora is strong, and we leverage preferential access through our networks. After 15 years and four funds delivering top-percentile performance, the new generation of GPs is reinforcing Credo’s position as the leading fund for CEE founders.”