Ventech, a pan-European venture capital firm recognized for its early investments in successful companies such as Believe, Vestiaire Collective, and Withings, has announced the final close of its sixth flagship fund at €175 million.
This achievement represents a significant milestone for the firm, surpassing its previous fund by 15% and marking the largest in its 26-year history. This substantial capital injection solidifies Ventech’s position at the forefront of Europe’s burgeoning technology scene, with a clear objective to support approximately 35 European tech startups from their Seed and Series A stages all the way through to successful exits.
The timing of this fund’s launch is particularly strategic, coinciding with a pivotal moment in the European tech ecosystem. The continent is currently experiencing a new wave of technological disruption, primarily driven by rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, which is reshaping industries at an unprecedented pace. Recognizing this transformative power, Ventech has made a strategic commitment to dedicate 50% of its capital and time to AI-native vertical applications. This focused approach aims to back category-defining companies that are actively shaping the future landscape across various sectors.
Beyond its strong emphasis on artificial intelligence, Ventech is also making significant investments in four additional key areas that align with broader global technological trends. These include Digital Health, Industrial Software, Cyber Security, and Sovereignty. Each of these sectors presents immense opportunities for innovation and growth, and Ventech is positioning itself to be a key enabler of these advancements.
The firm has already begun deploying capital from Ventech Capital VI, with 15 companies already backed. Notable investments include Okapi Orbits, a German space traffic management company; Inven, a Finnish M&A SaaS firm; Starhive, a Swedish AI-driven IT service management startup; Vertesia, an enterprise platform for building AI agents; and Omaha Insights, a French company focused on next-generation equity research.
In 2023, Ventech demonstrated its commitment to expanding its European footprint by opening its fifth European office in Stockholm. This move builds upon its earlier presence in Helsinki, established in 2016, and solidifies its position as one of the first French-born VCs with a truly localized presence in the Nordics. This pioneering spirit is deeply embedded in Ventech’s history, as it was among the first venture capital firms to establish local operations in Germany in 2013 and in China as far back as 2006. The momentum continues, with Ventech now doubling down on its efforts in the DACH region, expanding its team in Munich, and strengthening its ties to the local innovation ecosystems.
In the current dynamic geopolitical landscape, European venture capitalists are increasingly operating independently. Technology is undeniably crucial to Europe’s future economic strength, and Ventech has remained steadfast in its European conviction since its inception, dedicated to ensuring that Europe maintains its influence on the global stage. The firm believes that Europe can rely on its exceptional talent and ambition. The continent’s entrepreneurial talent pool has experienced relentless growth over the past two decades, transforming it into a powerhouse in the global arena.
Ventech boasts an impressive record of stability, with zero senior departures over the past 15 years. This longevity speaks to the firm’s resilience, having successfully navigated multiple economic cycles. Now, as the firm looks to the future, it is embracing the next generation of leadership. Ventech was founded just before the infamous dot-com bubble, a period that saw the collapse of countless VC funds and startups. Yet, Ventech emerged stronger, shaped by two core beliefs: that crises are opportune moments for investment, often giving rise to the next generation of industry giants, and that technology, despite any turmoil, will continue to reshape the world.
Ventech’s team comprises 18 dedicated individuals from six different nationalities, all committed to creating long-term value. This includes 10 investors, 6 of whom are General Partners with an impressive average of 17 years of experience in venture capital. These General Partners lead deals, hold board seats, and actively support startups within a flat, distributed partnership model.
A transition is also underway as Ventech’s Founding Partner, Alain Caffi, retires on a high note, following an outstanding 36x multiple exit from Believe. He has generously and gracefully passed the torch to the next generation, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Ventech’s enduring story. Jean Bourcereau is stepping into the role of Chairman, continuing to champion the firm’s vision and legacy. Concurrently, the leadership team is embracing a younger generation, with Stephan Wirries becoming a General Partner with Fund VI, and Audrey Soussan proudly taking her place as one of the few female General Partners in France, both under the age of 40.
In addition to strengthening its next-generation leadership, Ventech has expanded its operational team over the past three years with key hires. These include a Head of Marketing, a Head of Investor Relations, and an Impact & ESG Manager, all of whom were brought on board to provide enhanced support for both the firm and its portfolio companies. Furthermore, Ventech launched an early-stage impact arm, AFI Ventures, in 2020. This pre-seed and seed impact fund has rapidly established itself as a significant force in early-stage impact investing across Europe. With an active and fast-growing team, AFI has already backed over 40 impact-driven startups and deployed 60% of its fund commitment, demonstrating Ventech’s broader commitment to fostering positive change alongside financial success.
KEY QUOTE:
“We are entering a new cycle of disruption driven by AI and deep technological shifts. Now is the time to build, and we are thrilled to partner with ambitious founders tackling the biggest challenges and opportunities of our time. With 5 offices and a strong network across Europe, we are poised to support the next generation of category-defining companies from day one.”
“Friendly globalization is suffering, to say the least. Europe is more and more on its own. With 8 of the world’s 10 biggest companies being US tech giants, Europe’s path is clear-double down on innovation. VC funds must step up to drive the next wave of global leaders.”
“We’re proud to have raised this sixth-generation fund with the backing of a diverse group of international LPs. A 95% re-up rate speaks volumes about the trust in Ventech’s performance and core beliefs. We’re also honored to see over a dozen former founders return as investors, one of the strongest endorsements we could receive. The entire team is deeply grateful for the continued trust of our LPs and the founders who chose us to stand by their side!”
Jean Bourcereau, Chairman and Managing Partner at Ventech
