Exceptional Ventures

Exceptional Ventures is a London-based venture capital firm dedicated to investing in early-stage companies that aim to improve human health and happiness. The firm focuses on sectors such as HealthTech, FoodTech, and Financial Wellbeing, primarily within the United Kingdom and European Union, while also considering opportunities globally. Their inaugural fund, Exceptional Ventures Fund 1, targets £20 million and seeks to build a portfolio of approximately 40 companies over the next three years.

The firm's investment strategy emphasizes supporting passionate, purpose-driven founders who are driving the wellness revolution. Exceptional Ventures specializes in early-stage (pre-seed and seed) startups, offering capital, strategic guidance, and access to a network of industry experts to help founders scale their vision. The firm is committed to maximizing the 'Joyspan™,' a concept that represents the intersection of longevity, health, and happiness.

Exceptional Ventures is led by co-founders Matt Cooper and Paolo Pio. Matt brings extensive experience as an angel investor and chairman of several high-profile UK startups, including Tandem Bank and Octopus Capital. Paolo, a former Silicon Valley software engineer and technology executive, transitioned into venture capital as Managing Director for Europe at Joyance Partners, a US-based HealthTech VC firm. Together, they leverage their combined expertise to identify and support high-impact ventures that align with their mission of enhancing human well-being and fostering a sustainable planetary ecosystem.