Investment & Fund Management

Chipolo, a company based in Trbovlje, Slovenia, specializes in colorful item finders and a companion app, aiming to simplify life by helping users keep track of their belongings. Founded in 2013 by a group of friends, the company initially focused on developing a solution for the common problem of misplacing items, particularly keys. The turning point for Chipolo came with a successful Kickstarter campaign in 2013, where they raised €300,000 in less than a month, despite initial challenges in accessing the platform due to their location.

However, the COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges, impacting cash flow and threatening the company's stability. To navigate this difficult period, Chipolo sought financial assistance from the Slovene Enterprise Fund, which, backed by the European Investment Fund (EIF), provided a series of EU-guaranteed loans. This financial support was crucial in helping Chipolo maintain operations and return to a growth trajectory.

In terms of production, Chipolo has made a strategic decision to invest heavily in automation, planning to move into a fully automated 700m² production plant by the end of 2024. This investment aims to enhance efficiency and competitiveness in a global market, allowing the company to produce its products in Slovenia while leveraging advanced robotics. As of now, Chipolo employs 65 people and continues to expand its market presence, selling products to both consumers and businesses.