Build Up Labs
ABOUT BUILD UP LABS
Build Up Labs is a Lisbon venture studio and incubator founded in 2014, operating a dual model: it builds companies from its own ideas and, since 2020, incubates external founders. Using an AI-native methodology, the studio identifies opportunities, validates them, builds MVPs quickly, and launches digital businesses across AI, SaaS, mobile apps, and digital products at the pre-seed and seed stage. Across 15 investments, Build Up Labs has recorded 5 exits, including Tap My Back, acquired in 2023, plus exits such as 'NVY Life, Are We There Yet, and Team Survey. Its portfolio also includes Ask Cory, Kiss My Score, Grants Finder, CatchUp, and Wiser. The firm is led by Founder and CEO Rui Gouveia, with João Pereira as Partner, EiR, and CTO. Rui Gouveia also presides over the STUDIOS.PT association of Portuguese venture studios. Build Up Labs combines lean, iterative product building with a go-to-market focus across both its studio and incubator tracks.
INVESTMENT THESIS
Uses AI-native methodology to identify opportunities and build MVPs fast. Operates both a venture studio (own ideas) and incubator (external founders). Lean, iterative, go-to-market focused.
INVESTMENT DETAILS
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What stage does Build Up Labs invest at?
Build Up Labs invests at Pre-Seed, Seed stages.
What sectors does Build Up Labs invest in?
Build Up Labs focuses on AI, SaaS, Mobile Apps, Digital Products.
Where is Build Up Labs based?
Build Up Labs is a Venture Studio based in Lisbon, Portugal, founded in 2014.
Who are the partners at Build Up Labs?
Key people at Build Up Labs include Rui Gouveia (Founder and CEO), João Pereira (Partner, EiR & CTO).
What companies has Build Up Labs invested in?
Build Up Labs's portfolio includes Ask Cory, CatchUp, 'NVY Life, F*ck Marry Kill, Kiss My Score, Tap My Back, Grants Finder, Are We There Yet, among others.
How do I contact or pitch Build Up Labs?
You can reach Build Up Labs via their website (builduplabs.com). You can also submit your startup through Portugal VC's pitch tool to be forwarded to matching investors.