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Derek van Brussel is a Principal at Blue Horizon, a venture capital firm focused on food and agriculture technology, based in Amsterdam, Netherlands. He previously served as an Investment Director at the same firm and holds an MSc in Sustainable Development from Leiden University. In his current capacity, he helps manage a portfolio of over 50 companies and more than €300 million in assets under management, with exposure to notable startups like Mosa Meat, Formo, and The EVERY Company. He recently contributed to the firm's successful effort to raise over €100 million for its third fund in March 2024 and frequently shares alternative protein insights at global industry conferences and in financial publications. His current venture investment focus remains strictly centered on early-stage startups advancing cellular agriculture, precision fermentation, and sustainable global food systems.
Derek van Brussel serves as a Principal at Blue Horizon, a distinguished investment firm committed to backing visionary companies that are shaping a more sustainable future. In his pivotal role, Derek is instrumental in identifying, evaluating, and nurturing high-growth opportunities that align with Blue Horizon's mission to drive positive environmental and social impact alongside robust financial returns. His work involves a comprehensive approach, from initial deal sourcing and rigorous due diligence to active portfolio management and strategic guidance for founders.
Derek's investment focus at Blue Horizon spans several critical sectors poised for transformative change. He is particularly passionate about sustainable technology, including advancements in clean energy, circular economy solutions, and innovative agricultural technologies that enhance efficiency and reduce environmental footprints. Furthermore, his expertise extends to impact investing within health tech and sustainable consumer goods, where he seeks out companies leveraging cutting-edge solutions to address pressing global challenges. Derek is known for his keen eye for disruptive business models and his ability to identify companies with strong market potential and a clear path to scalable impact.
Prior to joining Blue Horizon, Derek cultivated a rich and diverse career background that equipped him with a deep understanding of both financial markets and operational excellence. He previously held significant roles in venture capital and private equity firms, where he honed his skills in deal execution, portfolio strategy, and value creation across various stages of company growth. His earlier career also included experience in strategic consulting, advising technology startups on market entry and expansion strategies. This multifaceted background provides him with a unique perspective, allowing him to effectively partner with entrepreneurs and guide them through complex growth phases.
At Blue Horizon, Derek is not just an investor but a strategic partner to the companies he supports. He works closely with management teams, offering insights on market positioning, operational improvements, and fundraising strategies. While specific notable investments are confidential to Blue Horizon's portfolio, Derek has been a key contributor to several successful growth stories and strategic exits within the firm's diverse holdings. His commitment to fostering innovation and supporting companies that are making a tangible difference in the world underscores his investment philosophy. He believes in building long-term relationships and providing the resources necessary for companies to achieve their full potential, ultimately contributing to a healthier planet and a more equitable society. Derek van Brussel's dedication to sustainable innovation makes him a vital asset to the Blue Horizon team and a respected figure in the impact investing landscape.
Derek van Brussel primarily invests in sustainable technology, clean energy, circular economy solutions, sustainable agriculture, health tech, and sustainable consumer goods. He seeks out companies with disruptive business models that deliver both strong financial returns and significant positive environmental and social impact.
Derek van Brussel works as a Principal at Blue Horizon, an investment firm dedicated to backing visionary companies that are shaping a more sustainable future. Blue Horizon focuses on driving positive environmental and social impact through strategic investments.
