Frank Thelen

Heiontec, a German startup, presented its product on the investor show Höhle der Löwen, where Frank Thelen criticised the founders despite acknowledging a good idea. Netzwelt reports Thelen called the pitch weak and folded the founders, sparking debate among viewers about whether the harsh verdict was justified.

Frank Thelen, the German tech investor and serial founder, is being discussed in connection with the upcoming 20th season of the startup pitch show Die Höhle der Löwen in 2026. A rundown of all confirmed investors for the new season has drawn attention to the line-up, renewing interest in which lions will be putting money into founders' ideas this time around.