GD1 (Global From Day One) is an Auckland, New Zealand-based venture capital fund that supports globally ambitious Kiwi tech startups with the aim to expand on a global scale. With a strong focus on providing capital, operational expertise, and leveraging a vast international network, GD1 is dedicated to turning local innovations into international success stories. Their unique position as an institutional-grade VC fund allows them to invest from the seed stage to scaling, providing essential operational support in areas such as product development, growth, and human resources.
GD1 brings a wealth of experience from technology companies across Europe, the US (including Silicon Valley), and New Zealand, ensuring that their portfolio companies receive unparalleled guidance and support. This international operating knowledge, coupled with ongoing relationships, means founders and management teams can confidently navigate the complexities of global markets from day one.
Their investment portfolio spans various industries, emphasizing tech startups with the potential to disrupt and innovate in significant ways. For instance, their investments include companies revolutionizing sectors like manufacturing with advanced technologies such as digital metal casting, workflow and payment innovations for the insurance industry, clean tech solutions that offer intelligent and affordable smart panels, and retail crime intelligence to enhance loss prevention.
GD1 prides itself on achieving impressive results for its portfolio companies. An example being Runn, which has seen 80% growth in the past 12 months with customers in 43 countries, including 170 in Europe and 120 in North America. The comprehensive support from the GD1 Build program has been instrumental in achieving such growth, providing invaluable contributions to go-to-market strategies, strategic finance, and overall business strategy.