Prehype

High-Level Overview

Prehype is a venture development firm with a mission to co-create and scale new ventures by combining entrepreneurial talent, corporate resources, and venture capital. Their investment philosophy centers on hands-on incubation, early-stage investing, and building companies that address real-world challenges—often leveraging AI and applied entrepreneurship. Prehype specializes in sectors such as fintech, AI, SaaS, media, and consumer technology, and is known for its collaborative approach with both startups and large organizations. Their impact on the startup ecosystem is marked by a strong track record of launching and scaling companies, supporting entrepreneurs-in-residence, and fostering innovation through partnerships with corporations and academic institutions.

Origin Story

Founded in 2010 by Henrik Werdelin, Prehype began as a venture studio with a focus on building startups from the ground up. Over the years, the firm evolved to include a broader range of services, including incubation programs, angel investments, and strategic partnerships with major corporations like Diageo, NewsCorp, Mondelez, LEGO, and Verizon. With headquarters in New York City and additional offices in London, Copenhagen, Sydney, and Detroit, Prehype has expanded its global reach while maintaining a founder-centric, operator-first approach. The firm’s evolution reflects a growing emphasis on leveraging AI and applied entrepreneurship to drive innovation and create scalable ventures.

Core Differentiators

• Unique Investment Model: Prehype combines venture building, incubation, and seed investing, often co-creating companies with entrepreneurs and corporations.
• Network Strength: Access to a global network of entrepreneurs, engineers, designers, and developers, as well as partnerships with leading corporations and academic institutions.
• Track Record: Notable exits include Birdseye (acquired by Yandex), AND CO (acquired by Fiverr), and Hilma (acquired by Biocodex Group), among others.
• Operating Support: Hands-on support through mentorship, resources, and strategic guidance, including teaching entrepreneurship methods at universities and executive education programs.
• AI Integration: Use of AI copilots and applied AI programs to accelerate venture creation and development.

Role in the Broader Tech Landscape

Prehype is riding the wave of corporate innovation and the rise of venture studios, which are increasingly seen as a bridge between traditional startups and large enterprises. The timing is favorable as corporations seek new ways to innovate and startups look for more than just capital—access to networks, expertise, and operational support. Prehype’s model aligns with the growing trend of applied entrepreneurship and the integration of AI in venture creation, positioning the firm as a key player in shaping the future of innovation. Their influence extends beyond individual startups, contributing to a more collaborative and dynamic startup ecosystem.

Quick Take & Future Outlook

Prehype is poised to continue expanding its impact by leveraging AI and deepening its partnerships with corporations and academic institutions. The firm’s focus on applied entrepreneurship and hands-on support will likely attract more entrepreneurs and corporate partners seeking to innovate and scale. As the venture studio model gains traction, Prehype’s influence on the startup ecosystem is expected to grow, driving the creation of more scalable and impactful ventures. Their ability to adapt and integrate new technologies will be crucial in shaping the future of venture development.