Verena Alice Sturm

Leveraging a strong academic background in Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE), International Relations, and Political Risk Analysis, Verena intertwines her passion for research and entrepreneurship to yield robust outcomes. Her journey began with earning her International Relations degree with honours from Hult International Business School in London.

Together with Professor Hisham Al Saghbini, she crafted an innovative method to enhance Delphi-based Scenario Analysis, specifically designed for innovation-intensive environments. Her pursuit of entrepreneurial leadership led to the foundation of Avestu Institute, a start-up Strategy Think Tank with presence in London, Berlin, and Munich.

At the helm of Avestu Institute, Verena has dedicated herself to supporting entrepreneurs, skillfully navigating the diverse strategic challenges that form part of the entrepreneurial journey. Her distinctive approach blends traditional forecasting tools and scenario analysis with semi-quantitative methodologies. She is committed to providing tailored solutions to meet each client's unique needs. Since 2014, she has honed her expertise in Investor Relations and fundraising during the pivotal Seed Stage, Series A, and Series B.

Through Avestu Capital, she actualized her vision of providing a comprehensive Investor Readiness & Match-Making service. This service spans the entire company life cycle, from early stages to the formulation of build & buy strategies and succession planning, initiated in 2018.

In addition to her entrepreneurial endeavors, Verena is an esteemed Lecturer in Venture Capital & Finance at ISM Munich. She is also a Founding Partner of Mandatory Ventures, a Funds of Funds (FoF) entity investing in Emerging Managers in Venture Capital.

Verena fervently believes in crafting lasting, high-impact societal value through entrepreneurship. She is dedicated to assisting founders and investors in making value-centric investment decisions. She harbours a special fondness for ethical technological innovation, life sciences, and social ventures.

Always inclined towards entrepreneurial challenges, Verena thrives on creating opportunities by connecting the appropriate parties for venture success. Her extensive network is a testament to her genuine interest in building enduring and reliable business partnerships.

Outside the realms of entrepreneurship and academia, Verena finds solace in art galleries, antiquing, and travel planning. She thrives on scouting for intriguing start-ups when she's not immersed in appreciating art or planning her next adventure.