Timo Lindstedt, a member of Startup Lions’ board, has over 20 years of experience in banking and investment. Helping Finnish companies with growth potential secure financing is something Timo is passionate about.
“I want to do my part to give new ideas the best possible chance of success and help companies move forward. We would all be better off if Finland had more growing companies,” says Timo.
Glimmers of light in the financial market
The past couple of years have been exceptionally challenging for companies in terms of access to financing. Rising interest rates, tighter lender conditions, and an uncertain economic situation have slowed investments and particularly made it harder for SMEs to secure funding.
“In recent months, there have been glimmers of light in the financial market. Fund capital and bank deposits are larger than ever. Investment volumes have increased, and decision-making has accelerated,” notes Timo.
Startup Lions opens new financing opportunities
Startup Lions supports its portfolio companies in securing financing in a long-term and multifaceted way. In addition to direct equity investments, the company seeks investors for its portfolio companies from its own shareholder base of nearly 200 investors and through its proven marketing concept. The company also assists in utilizing public financing instruments and bank funding.
“I myself have made direct investments in almost all of Startup Lions’ portfolio companies and am happy to help find investors by leveraging my own networks. I believe that many good things will happen over the next year both at Startup Lions and in its portfolio companies,” says Timo.
Startup Lions opens new financing opportunities
For me, work is a hobby and my hobby is work. I love what I do – I don’t really see it as work, at least not in a negative sense. When you move in many different circles and your name is remembered, contacting people even for business matters becomes natural. I have been able to accelerate share issues and engage both new and existing investors. That’s when I am at my best,” Timo says.