DSTF welcomes
Richard Bruens
as CEO

As of September 1, 2025, Richard Bruens has started as CEO of Dutch Sport Tech Fund. With a unique combination of top-level sports mentality and decades of experience in the financial world, he strengthens the team. From goalkeeper in professional football to top executive at Van Lanschot Kempen: Richard brings together passion and leadership. Exactly the strength needed for DSTF2 to grow into a larger fund with institutional appeal. In this interview, he reveals his vision for the future of DSTF.

Richard’s athletic background taught him discipline, perseverance, and the importance of teamwork. After studying business administration, he pursued an international career at ABN AMRO and Renaissance Capital, with postings in London, Greece, Saudi Arabia, and Russia. In 2013, he joined the executive board of Van Lanschot Kempen, where he led both the private bank and the investment bank. “I learned teamwork, discipline, and how to deal with criticism on the field,” says Richard. “In the dealing room, the dynamics are similar: high pressure, emotions, collaboration, and then moving on together to the next goal.”

DSTF invests in 18 start-ups and scale-ups that are developing innovative solutions at the intersection of technology and sports. The soft closing marks an important milestone and provides opportunities to support companies in areas such as data-driven training tools, sports infrastructure, communities, and fan engagement. “This milestone not only underscores the strength of DSTF 1, but also the growing demand for technological innovation in the sports world,” says Janssen. “We thank our investors for their trust and look forward to the next steps.”

For further growth, application development, scalability, and distinctive GTM (go-to-market) strategies are needed. Dutch Sport Tech Fund provides the means to achieve this. The prospects for returns for participants were good and are getting even better, especially given the immense volume in the amateur sports market.

After five years, DSTF1 has built a solid track record with 17 investments and several companies moving towards exit. According to Richard, this forms a strong foundation to now actively involve family offices and institutional investors. “Many parties want to see three to five years of performance before they step in. With DSTF2, we can now provide that proof.”

The global sports technology market now exceeds 35 billion dollars and is growing by more than 20% each year. From AI and performance tools to fan engagement and women's sports: technology is making sports increasingly measurable, improving performance, and enhancing the experience for athletes and fans.

According to Richard, DSTF remains firmly rooted in the Benelux and Western Europe. From this base, selective opportunities are pursued in other markets, for example in the United States, where portfolio companies can achieve economies of scale. “The strategy is focused on expansion where the fit is strongest,” he explains.

With sporting passion, international experience, and a keen eye for investor interests, Richard is ready to further develop DSTF2 together with the team. The goal: to take the next step in professionalization, scale, and institutional trust—without losing the entrepreneurial DNA.

Discover the investment opportunities in DSTF2. Contact us.