Unlock global growth
They say the road to success is not a straight line. We say, some routes are more direct than others.
If your start-up’s mission is about optimising performance, improving uptime or giving a real-time view of what's happening on the ground, let’s talk.
Howden Ventures gives you everything you need to accelerate your growth journey, on a global scale.
We're looking for founders building at the intersection of operational technology, risk and resilience in:
- Industrial IoT and sensors
- Industrial automation
- Predictive maintenance
- Machine learning
- Control systems
We're building the future of resilience, where insurance is no longer just reactive but embedded, intelligent and protecting what matters – not just after the fact, but by prevention at the source.
Howden Ventures is a new kind of CVC, with the reach of a global broker and the ambition to redefine how operational risk is managed. We bring together funding, insurance expertise and distribution scale to accelerate innovation where it matters most.
Are you experiencing these problems?
Lack of capital to grow
Clients not always seeing the value of your product
Issues with regulation and licensing
Struggle to scale in complex industries
Howden Ventures is a CVC with a difference
VC funding from an engaged, useful partner
Up to £2m of venture capital ready to deploy for start-ups that can deliver strategic value to the insurance market.Instant distribution relationships
Large, ready-made client base hungry for products that will help optimise performance, improve uptime and reduce risks.Faster times to market and sustainable revenue
Get your product to market in under six months through 16,000 brokers.Demonstrable success of building and scaling risk tech
Capability to build or collaborate on data and technology products.
Current portfolio
Meet the companies already in the Howden Ventures portfolio.
Ceto
Ceto is an innovative software company that provides powerful predictive analytics to the maritime industry. Combining high frequency data, engineering expertise and artificial intelligence, they reduce machinery breakdowns, cut carbon emissions and manage operational risk.
Our investment criteria
- Seed to series B stage of funding
- B2B startups focused on cutting risk and boost performance across critical industries – for example energy, shipping, construction, industrial manufacturing, logistics and aviation
- Strong founding team with domain expertise or data insights that solve client problems
- Using data and technology to monitor, assess and manage risks
- Based in the UK, USA or EEA territories
Meet the Team
Head of Howden VenturesTom Hoad
LinkedInHead of Howden VenturesTom has nearly 20 years’ experience in insurance. He started his career advising multinational banks and infrastructure funds on the insurance and risk management aspects of Project Finance and M&A, all while completing his Master's in Insurance and Risk Management at Bayes Business School, which he achieved with Distinction.
Since 2011 Tom has designed and launched dozens of new insurance products to market that span technology, climate, intangibles and parametric solutions, in addition to playing a key role in various start-up investments. Tom also formed and initially chaired the Lloyd’s Product Innovation Facility, now the Lloyd’s Launchpad, and is committed to the development of innovation at Lloyd’s.
PartnerLuke Hakes
LinkedInPartnerLuke holds, BSc MSc, and PhD. After starting his career as a scientist, he moved into management and technology consulting in the insurance and investment banking space. In 2009 Luke joined Octopus Group, helping to start and subsequently grow Octopus Ventures, expanding it from a team of four and £15m in Assets Under Management, to over 90 people overseeing £1.5bn AUM.
Over 13 years, Luke participated in investments in over 100 companies and was personally involved in a number of very successful acquisitions and IPOs. Luke now co-leads Howden Ventures, investing in and building the next generation of augmented underwriting companies.
Senior AssociateAcacia Taylor
LinkedInSenior AssociateAcacia holds a Master’s in Finance from the London Business School. After beginning her career as a data analyst and actuary in the reinsurance industry, she moved into investment banking, specialising in insurance M&A. At Howden Ventures, she plays a pivotal role in evaluating the commercial viability of early-stage startups.
As a Senior Associate, Acacia applies her expertise in risk management, financial modelling and industry dynamics to lead investment due diligence and support capital allocation. Acacia works closely with founders to assess the financial and operational feasibility of potential investments, evaluate market positioning, and help them execute their go-to-market strategies.
Senior AssociateSenior AssociateEd is a Senior Associate at Howden Ventures, with over 10 years of experience in underwriting and product development at AIG, followed by commercial roles at a Series A startup. As our go-to problem solver, he works across both our investment and insurance functions, from shaping origination strategies to helping our investments navigate their path to market.
AnalystCharlie Coker
LinkedInAnalystCharlie holds an MSc in Economics and Policy of Energy and the Environment from University College London. With experience as a Junior Credit and Political Risk Underwriter at a Lloyd’s Syndicate, and at a VC fund, Charlie brings a unique combination of insurance expertise and venture capital insight.
At Howden Ventures he is responsible for researching emerging trends in tech and insurance, while sourcing and securing deal flow to help identify the next big opportunity in the specialty market.
AnalystGeorgianna Lucy
LinkedInAnalystAfter eight years of experience as a PA, first in a law firm before transitioning into insurance, Georgianna focuses on ensuring the team has the right processes in place, and that all operations run smoothly and efficiently.
In her role, she manages schedules and oversees various tasks, making sure gaps are spotted and issues are solved before they slow things down.
AnalystTanya Pellegrini
LinkedInAnalystWith a degree in Media and Communication from the University of Leicester, Tanya worked as a journalist and TV reporter, before specialising in Digital PR and brand marketing.
At Howden Ventures, she collaborates with internal and external teams to build and execute a communication strategy that supports the team’s efforts. She also ensures portfolio companies are equipped with the right tools to communicate effectively and drive sales and growth.