D11Z is the venture capital arm of Dieter Schwarz's family office, operating as an evergreen fund since 2005 with dual bases in Heilbronn and Munich. The firm invests across Europe in pre-seed and seed-stage companies, with initial cheques ranging from EUR 100,000 to EUR 1.5 million. It has deployed capital across 68+ portfolio investments with a stated focus on artificial intelligence, digital technologies, and deep tech ventures.
The firm's investment approach is notably data-driven, incorporating AI technologies and advanced scraping techniques to source deal flow. Since 2024, D11Z has concentrated its thesis on AI innovators and visionary founders. As a family office structure, the firm positions itself as offering patient, long-term capital alongside the operational agility typical of venture firms.
Portfolio support extends beyond capital deployment. D11Z Academy provides annual educational programming, while portfolio companies receive pro bono access to STACKIT cloud infrastructure. The firm also facilitates strategic introductions to global market leaders and conducts expert-led workshops covering sales, human resources, fundraising, and marketing.