First of all: What is a venture capitalist? And how does QBIT Capital differ from other venture capitalists?
A venture capitalist provides early capital, mentorship, and networks to start-ups in exchange for equity. QBIT Capital is not just a fund allocator — we are shaped by the three C’s: Character, Courage, Confidence. We are integrated into the Swiss ecosystem with boots on the ground.

Can you give a specific example where you are particularly proud of the development of a portfolio company?
Honestly, we’re proud of all our portfolio companies — they’re like your children. Each has its own journey, challenges, and breakthroughs. What makes us proud is not just the metrics, but the character of the founders and their ability to grow, pivot, and build with integrity.

What criteria are decisive for you when investing in a start-up and what role do the founders play in this?
Team, Problem, Solution. We spend a considerable amount of time understanding the problem and validating whether it’s a good-to-have or a must-to-have. The founders are the drivers — everything starts and ends with them.

This year you were the first venture capitalist to move into Park Innovaare. What motivated you to do so? And what is the interim result?
It’s a long-term commitment and strategic move. Park Innovaare is a hidden gem. Being close to PSI and deep tech researchers shows we’re serious about science-based innovation. The interim result? Deeper relationships and a stronger presence in the ecosystem.

Which technological trends do you currently see as particularly promising and how is QBIT Capital adapting to them?
Artificial Intelligence across all verticals, quantum technology, new computing architectures, Space, and automation. QBIT is building a process to evaluate early-stage deep tech using TRL/BRL frameworks (Technology/Business Readiness Level) and investing in start-ups at the frontier — always with strategic partnerships in place.

Switzerland regularly occupies top positions in the innovation rating. How do you rate the innovative strength of Swiss start-ups?
Switzerland is a world leader in invention. And more than ever, I believe Switzerland is uniquely positioned to become a global benchmark and reference point for early-stage deep tech and frontier technology. The quality of research, infrastructure, and trust in the system is remarkable.

Where do you still see potential? Where can Switzerland improve?
My only recommendation is for founders to travel and actively build their network across continents. A strong network — both domestic and global — is fundamental. This focus shouldn’t be episodic; it’s a perpetual process. Just keep doing it, refine it, and repeat. The best founders are bridge builders.

What was the craziest business idea you have ever been presented with – and have you thought about investing?
Growing neurons in cell cultures and making great progress in their use as computing power. If we were earlier I would have invested though!

Is there a characteristic or habit that you think successful founders almost always have in common?
Yes: obsession with the problem. Not the product, not the pitch — the problem. They are relentless in understanding and solving it. Also, they communicate clearly and make people want to follow them.

And finally: What three pieces of advice would you give to a young founder?
First: Build strong foundation before growth. Second: Listen more than you talk and ask a lot of questions. Third: Don't chase investors. Chase value. The right investors will chase you.

About Georges Khneysser: Georges is the founder and Chief Vision Officer of QBIT Capital AG, based in Zurich, Switzerland. Georges has 35 years of experience in the Capital Markets, Debt and Currency trading, Private Equity, Private Market and Venture Capital investing. Georges brings an extensive global network, having lived and worked in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and California. Georges is passionate about quantum mechanics, chess, contemporary art, and watchmaking.