Asymmetric.tech

Investor-operator in Australian businesses where critical technology matters

Who we are

A Melbourne based investor operator building durable commercial value in Australian SMEs.We take a long-term view on improving national interest through sensible critical technology adoption.Established by Andrew Campbell, with over 15 years experience as a Chief Investment Officer and senior operator across numerous SMEs.

What we do

Work with owners on a plan that continues the vision and builds the legacy of a great business.We’re not private equity. We buy to operate personally, with a bias for protecting what already works.Operate and invest in Australian businesses that build, use, or can sensibly adopt critical technologies in how they deliver products or services. This often means an existing business that can leverage this type of technology (we are not a deep tech VC).

How we work

Guided by a few simple values:
- Aim up and build
- Without trust, everything decays
- Adopt responsibility and go on an adventure
- Creative courage finds the path forward
- Be a grateful steward of business and capital
Ready to invest:
- We invest with an existing small group of aligned co-investors on a deal-by-deal basis.
- We typically respond within 3 business days with a clear Yes / No / Maybe and the next step.
We know what we want:
Behind this is an internal Signal Engine that monitors 500+ public sources and turns real-time signals into a deal workflow. It helps us prioritise outreach, respond faster on fit, and build long term relationships.

Critical technology

We use the Australian Government sense of critical technologies: current and emerging technologies that can materially enhance or put at risk Australia’s economic prosperity, national security and social cohesion.That includes fields like advanced manufacturing and materials, AI and data, advanced communications, quantum, autonomous systems and robotics, biotechnologies and clean energy technologies.In practice that often means an existing business developing or using one of these technologies (we are not a deep tech VC).

What we look for

  • Australian headquartered

  • Owners who care about succession, staff and customers

  • Businesses where critical technology is already important or clearly can be

  • Fits one of the "investment types" in the table adjacent

How we complete investments

  • Flexible, succession-friendly structures where appropriate

  • Fast view on fit, with clear yes/no/maybe and next step where there is genuine interest

  • Respect for intermediaries, including brokers and advisers, and a straightforward process

Investment TypeGuidance / CriteriaExperience
Micro / Small / Lower-mid marketEBITDA over $1mMultiple investments and senior operator roles in this profile
Special situationsSelectiveMultiple successful turnarounds both as investor and senior operator
StartupStrong prospects, but has fallen out of VC fundingBuilt a VC fund | Multiple startup investments | Founded successful startup

Contact

We welcome introductions, networking and the opportunity to develop long term trust-based relationships. Every conversation is confidential.

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