AWI Deep Tech Fund
Request for proposal For an asset manager
The Anlagestiftung Winterthur für Personalvorsorge (AWI), in collaboration with the Deep Tech Nation Switzerland Foundation (DTN), is pleased to announce the publication of the Request for Proposals (RfP) for the AWI Deep Tech Fund with focus Switzerland (AWI DTF). This initiative is intended to substantially increase Swiss institutional investment in start-ups, particularly those demonstrating strong potential in innovation and technology.
Supporting Deep Tech Nation Switzerland Foundation’s Vision
DTN has set an ambitious goal of enabling CHF 50 billion of investment over the next decade into Swiss start-ups, thereby fueling a robust pipeline of entrepreneurial and technological innovation. By collaborating with AWI on the AWI Deep Tech Fund, DTN is taking a significant step toward fulfilling that mission. This RfP is designed not only to spur immediate investment into high-potential ventures but also to create lasting momentum in Swiss deep tech and digital innovation, ultimately closing the funding gap that has historically limited the country’s otherwise world-class start-up ecosystem.
Objective of the AWI Deep Tech Fund Request for Proposals
AWI Deep Tech Fund is designed to close critical funding gaps within the Swiss start-up ecosystem while offering attractive risk-adjusted returns to institutional investors. This vehicle will operate as a Hybrid Venture Capital Fund with both indirect exposure to startups through VC funds, and direct exposure to startups. An asset manager with a proven track record in venture capital is required to guide and manage the hybrid strategy, ensuring alignment with defined investment objectives and long-term goals. Read more about the AWI DTF in our interview with Dario My, Head Venture Hub Switzerland here.
Deep Tech Nation Switzerland Role
DTN will support AWI in the RFP process by facilitating outreach and generating interest. However, the development and management of the AWI Deep Tech Fund will be led entirely by AWI and the selected finalist Asset Manager. DTN’s role is to reduce friction and encourage broader participation in the Swiss venture ecosystem, but it will have no direct involvement in the fund’s day-to-day operations or strategic decision-making of the fund.
Key Dates and Milestones
21.03.2025
18:00 CET
Deadline for RfP Clarification Questions
Potential asset managers should submit any queries by this date to ensure timely responses.
18.04.2025
18:00 CET
Deadline for Proposal Submission
Proposals must be received by this deadline to be considered.
21.04.2025
Evaluation of Proposals Begins
An independent Selection Committee will review all complete submissions.
30.05.2025
Selection of Asset Manager for Exclusivity
Following a thorough evaluation, one candidate will be chosen for exclusive negotiations.
31.07.2025
Completion of Due Diligence and Negotiation
Final due diligence, negotiations, and related contractual arrangements are expected to conclude by this date.
Submitting Your Proposal
All proposals should be sent as a single PDF file to rfp@deeptechnation.ch. The submission window closes on 18.04.2025 at 18:00 CET, and proposals submitted after this time will not be accepted.
Inquiries and Clarifications
All questions regarding the RfP should be directed to rfp@deeptechnation.ch no later than 21.03.2025 at 18:00 CET. Please reference the RfP title in the subject line to expedite our response. You can find answers to previously asked questions in the document below:
Submit the Form to Access the Request for Proposals
The independent selection committee appreciates your interest in the AWI Deep Tech Fund. It looks forward to reviewing your proposals and potentially working together to further strengthen Switzerland’s role as a global leader in innovation.