Recent Fundraisers

AI is Rewriting the Rules of European Entrepreneurship In the rapidly evolving landscape of European entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a transformative force, reshaping how businesses operate, innovate, and compete. As AI technologies continue to advance, they are not only enhancing operational efficiencies but also creating new opportunities and challenges for startups across the continent. The AI Revolution in Europe Europe's startup ecosystem is witnessing a significant shift driven by AI innovations. From automating mundane tasks to enabling groundbreaking discoveries, AI is at the forefront of this transformation. European entrepreneur…

Revolut Unveils AI Assistant in Ambitious Product Expansion In a bold move to solidify its position as a leading fintech innovator, Revolut has introduced a new AI assistant as part of its latest product expansion. This strategic rollout reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to enhancing user experience and streamlining financial management for its global customer base. An Innovative Leap Forward Revolut, known for disrupting traditional banking with its digital-first approach, is taking another step forward by integrating artificial intelligence into its platform. The introduction of the AI assistant marks a significant milestone in Revolut’s journey, aiming to p…

Zurich’s Herbert Ventures Launches €32.5 Million Fund I to Back European Founders at Pre-Seed and Seed Introduction In a move poised to energize the European startup landscape, Zurich-based Herbert Ventures has launched its inaugural fund, Herbert Ventures Fund I. With a capital pool of €32.5 million, this early-stage venture capital fund is strategically designed to empower pre-Seed and Seed-stage startups across Europe. This announcement marks a significant step for both the firm and the burgeoning entrepreneurs they aim to support. Main Body Herbert Ventures Fund I has already made waves with its first investment in DroidRun, a promising German pre-Seed startup. D…

How to Unlock Access to the UK’s Most Powerful Supercomputer Introduction In the rapidly evolving world of technology, access to advanced computational resources can be a game-changer for startups. Whether it's for developing complex algorithms, conducting high-level data analysis, or accelerating research and development, supercomputers offer unparalleled capabilities. The UK’s most powerful supercomputer is now within reach for those who know how to secure access, providing a significant opportunity for early-stage companies looking to scale their innovations. The Power of Supercomputing Supercomputers are distinguished by their ability to perform trillions of calc…

Project Europe CEO Kitty Mayo: ‘Harry Stebbings is like our head of state and I’m prime minister’ In the bustling landscape of European startups, Project Europe has emerged as a pivotal player, promising to redefine the continent’s approach to innovation and entrepreneurship. At the helm is CEO Kitty Mayo, whose vision and leadership are making waves. In a recent conversation, Mayo offered intriguing insights into the dynamics of her leadership and the unique relationship with Harry Stebbings, a notable figure in the startup world. A Dynamic Duo Kitty Mayo describes her partnership with Harry Stebbings in terms that evoke political leadership. “Harry Stebbings is like…

British FinTech Firm MillTech Secures €51 Million Investment at €277 Million Valuation In a significant development for the European fintech landscape, London-based MillTech has announced a €51 million ($60 million) minority investment from Apax Digital Funds, part of Apax Partners LLP. This latest round of funding values the innovative risk management platform at an impressive €277 million ($325 million), underscoring its growing influence in the fintech sector. A Strategic Partnership and Growth Trajectory MillTech, established in 2019, specializes in next-generation FX hedging and cash investment solutions tailored for fund managers and corporates. The firm leverag…

UK Banking Licence Applications Drop to Zero in 2025 In a surprising turn of events, 2025 has marked the first year where no new banking licence applications were submitted in the UK. This development raises questions about the state of financial innovation and the future of fintech in one of the world's leading financial hubs. A Dramatic Shift in the Financial Landscape The UK has long been a fertile ground for financial innovation, with its robust regulatory framework and thriving fintech ecosystem. However, the complete halt in banking licence applications this year suggests a significant shift in the landscape. This trend highlights potential challenges and barrie…

Estonia’s Handhold Raises €3 Million to Revolutionize Software Sales with AI Account Managers In a significant leap forward for AI-driven sales technology, Estonia-based Handhold has secured a €3 million Seed round to enhance its AI-agent platform. This innovative platform aims to transform how software companies interact with potential and existing customers, promising to redefine the software sales landscape. Pioneering a New Era in Software Sales Founded in 2023 by industry veterans Georg Vooglaid and Uku Tammet, Handhold offers a groundbreaking solution for software companies. Their platform automates the entire inbound customer journey, from initial contact to re…

How to Survive the SaaSpocalypse In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, Software as a Service (SaaS) has been a beacon of innovation and growth. However, recent shifts have led to what some are calling the "SaaSpocalypse"—a challenging period marked by market saturation and intensified competition. For startups navigating this storm, understanding how to survive and thrive is more crucial than ever. Understanding the SaaSpocalypse The term "SaaSpocalypse" might sound dramatic, but it effectively captures the current state of the SaaS industry. Once a wide-open field with abundant opportunities, the market is now crowded with numerous players vying for attention. …

European Tech Left X in Droves. Is It Time to Log Back On? In recent years, the European tech landscape has witnessed a significant exodus from platform X. Once a vibrant hub for entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators, X saw a shift as users migrated to alternative platforms and new digital ecosystems. However, with changing dynamics and evolving needs, is it time for the European tech community to reconsider its departure and re-engage with X? The Great Exodus: Understanding the Departure The mass departure from X wasn't a spur-of-the-moment decision. Factors such as evolving user needs, platform changes, and the rise of competing technologies contributed to this t…

Dutch Startup AirHub Secures €4.4 Million to Advance Mission-Critical Drone Software In a significant boost to Europe's security and defense sectors, Dutch startup AirHub has successfully raised €4.4 million in Series A funding. This Groningen-based company is at the forefront of developing innovative drone operations software, specifically designed for high-stakes environments. The funding round saw participation from Keen Venture Partners, Runway FBU, and existing backers Lumaux and LUMO Labs. Revolutionizing Drone Operations Founded in 2017, AirHub is carving out a niche in the rapidly evolving drone technology landscape. The company specializes in software solutio…

Bristol’s Narwhal Labs Secures €22.9 Million and Launches DeepBlue OS, Its Autonomous Communications Platform In a significant move for the AI communications landscape, Bristol-based Narwhal Labs has secured €22.9 million (£20 million) in funding from UK investors. This boost comes as the company launches DeepBlue OS, an innovative autonomous communications platform poised to transform how organizations handle interactions. Breaking New Ground in AI Communications Founded by Luke Sartain, Narwhal Labs is redefining enterprise communications with its DeepBlue OS platform. Unlike traditional models that demand hefty budgets and lengthy deployment times, DeepBlue OS offe…

19 AI Agent Startups to Watch in 2026, According to VCs The world of artificial intelligence is rapidly evolving, and nowhere is this more evident than in the burgeoning field of AI agents. As we look toward 2026, venture capitalists are keenly eyeing a select group of startups poised to redefine how AI integrates into our daily lives and business operations. Here, we dive into 19 AI agent startups that are capturing the attention of investors and could shape the future of this transformative technology. The Rise of AI Agents Artificial Intelligence has moved beyond mere buzzwords, becoming a cornerstone of innovation across industries. AI agents—autonomous programs t…

Wallapop Founders’ Factory: Meet Nine Alumni Turned Startup Founders In the bustling world of startups, few names resonate as profoundly as Wallapop. Known for revolutionizing the online classifieds marketplace, Wallapop has not only made waves with its innovative platform but has also become a fertile ground for entrepreneurial talent. Many of its former employees have embarked on their own journeys, launching successful startups and making a significant impact in the tech ecosystem. Let’s explore the stories of nine Wallapop alumni who have transitioned from team members to trailblazing founders. From Employees to Entrepreneurs Wallapop’s dynamic environment has pro…

VC Firms with All-Male Teams Halved Over Past Decade in UK, Report Shows A Decade of Change in Venture Capital The venture capital landscape in the United Kingdom is undergoing a significant transformation. Over the past decade, the number of VC firms with all-male teams has halved, according to a recent report. This shift marks a pivotal moment in the industry, signaling progress towards greater diversity and inclusion in a field historically dominated by men. As the startup ecosystem evolves, this change brings new opportunities and challenges for founders, investors, and the broader innovation community. The Changing Face of Venture Capital Venture capital firms…

Wallapop CEO on Selling to South Korean Internet Giant Naver: 'The Scale They Have Dwarfs Ours' Introduction In a bold move that underscores the increasing globalization of tech startups, Wallapop, the Spanish second-hand marketplace app, has made headlines by selling to South Korean internet giant Naver. This acquisition not only marks a significant milestone for Wallapop but also highlights the growing interest of Asian tech behemoths in European innovation. The deal brings to light the strategic motives behind such acquisitions and the potential ripple effects on the startup ecosystem. Main Body Founded in 2013, Wallapop has become a household name in Spain, offer…

With 74% of Businesses Planning Agentic AI Deployment, Trent AI Secures €11 Million in Seed Funding Introduction In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, London-based startup Trent AI has emerged as a key player, securing €11 million in Seed funding to address the burgeoning need for agentic AI security solutions. As organizations increasingly integrate AI agents and autonomous workflows, the demand for robust security frameworks has never been more critical. This funding round marks a significant milestone for Trent AI as it steps out of stealth mode with a pioneering security solution designed for the agentic era. Main Body The funding round was spearheaded b…

PLD Space Secures €30 Million EIB Loan to Propel MIURA 5 Rocket Towards Test Flight Introduction In a significant leap for the European space sector, Spain's PLD Space has secured a €30 million venture debt loan from the European Investment Bank (EIB). This funding marks a pivotal step in the development of PLD Space’s MIURA 5 rocket, designed to deploy small satellites into orbit. As the EIB's first direct investment in small launchers, this loan underscores the growing importance of accessible space transportation solutions. Advancing MIURA 5 and PLD Space's Vision Elche-based PLD Space is at the forefront of space innovation, aiming to transform satellite deployme…

neuroClues Raises €10 Million Series A to Revolutionize Early Diagnosis of Neurological Disorders In a groundbreaking move for the MedTech industry, neuroClues—a French-Belgian startup—has successfully raised €10 million in a Series A funding round. With the backing of Teampact Ventures, White Fund, and the European Innovation Council (EIC) Fund, the company has now secured a total of €25 million in capital. This new infusion of funds marks a significant milestone for neuroClues as it aims to transform the early diagnosis of neurological disorders with its innovative technology. Pioneering Early Diagnosis in Neurology Founded in 2020 by Antoine Pouppez, Pierre Daye, a…

British GovTech Scale-Up Fivium Secures BGF Investment to Scale Public Sector Software Offering Engaging Introduction In a strategic move that underscores the burgeoning interest in GovTech, London-based Fivium has secured a substantial minority investment from growth capital investor BGF. This multi-million-pound funding round is set to propel Fivium's next phase of expansion, enhancing its Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform and digital solutions for the public sector. As governments increasingly seek efficient and transparent software solutions, Fivium stands poised to lead the charge. Main Body Fivium, established in 2006, has carved out a niche in the GovTech …

Why is the US so Hard for European Neobanks to Crack? In the ever-evolving world of fintech, European neobanks have emerged as dynamic disruptors, challenging traditional banking norms with their innovative digital-first approaches. However, while these agile financial startups have found significant success in their home markets, the United States remains an elusive frontier. Why is it that these neobanks, despite their technological prowess and customer-centric models, struggle to establish a foothold in the US market? Navigating a Complex Regulatory Landscape One of the most significant barriers for European neobanks entering the US is its complex regulatory enviro…

Lisbon's Bondstone Ventures into DeepTech with €50 Million Fund In a bold move reflecting the shifting dynamics of the European startup scene, Lisbon-based Bondstone has unveiled its new venture capital arm, Bondstone Ventures, along with a €50 million fund dedicated to DeepTech. Known for its prowess in real estate, Bondstone is now setting its sights on the transformative potential of technology, seeking to foster innovation across Southern Europe. A Strategic Expansion into Venture Capital Bondstone Ventures marks a significant expansion for the company, which has built a formidable reputation in real estate development and asset management since its inception in 201…

Sofia’s nFuse Secures €1.7 Million to Revolutionize B2B Ordering with AI In the bustling startup ecosystem of Sofia, nFuse is making waves with its innovative approach to B2B ordering. The company recently secured €1.7 million ($2 million) in funding from Eleven Ventures and LAUNCHub, positioning itself for rapid expansion across Europe and into the EMEA and American markets. But what sets nFuse apart in a crowded field of B2B solutions? Revolutionizing B2B Commerce Founded by former Coca-Cola executives Stoyan Ivanov and Stefan Radov, nFuse tackles the inefficiencies in traditional B2B e-commerce. The platform leverages AI to enable retailers and HoReCa operators to …

Spain’s Xoople Secures €112.6 Million Series B to Revolutionize AI-Ready Earth Data Infrastructure Spain’s Xoople Secures €112.6 Million Series B to Revolutionize AI-Ready Earth Data Infrastructure In a significant stride for Earth data technology, Madrid-based startup Xoople has successfully closed a €112.6 million ($130 million) Series B funding round. This new influx of capital brings the company's total funding to €195 million ($225 million), positioning it as a leading player in the Earth data infrastructure sector. The round attracted a diverse group of investors, including Nazca Capital, MCH, the Spanish government agency CDTI, Buenavista Equity Partn…

Exclusive: Nvidia Challenger Arago Tapes Out First Chip in a Milestone Move for Semiconductor Startup Introduction In a groundbreaking development for the semiconductor industry, Arago, a promising startup, has successfully taped out its first chip. This achievement marks a significant milestone, positioning Arago as a formidable competitor to industry giant Nvidia. As the demand for advanced semiconductors continues to soar, Arago's entry into the market could signal a shift in the competitive landscape. Main Body Arago's journey from concept to chip production exemplifies the innovation and agility characteristic of successful startups. The term "taping out" refe…

Why Women Aren't ‘Missing’ the AI Train Engaging Introduction In the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI), the narrative has often suggested that women are being left behind. However, this perspective is not only outdated but also overlooks the significant strides women are making in the field. As AI continues to transform industries, the role of women in this sector is becoming increasingly prominent. This article explores how women are actively participating and excelling in AI, challenging stereotypes and driving innovation. Main Body Women Making Waves in AI Contrary to the notion that women are absent from AI, many are leading groundbreaki…

Ireland’s Octostar Secures €6.1 Million Seed Extension for AI-Native Intelligence Platform In a significant stride for AI innovation, Ireland-based startup Octostar has successfully extended its Seed funding round, raising a total of €6.1 million. This round was bolstered by existing strategic and venture capital investors and saw new participation from Milan's The Techshop and national institutional investors. Pioneering Sovereign AI Solutions Founded in 2023 by Giovanni Tummarello, Robert Fuller, Simone Scarduzio, and Varun Sharma, Octostar is at the forefront of AI solutions tailored for national security, law enforcement, and financial sectors. The startup is addr…

Finnish Counter-Drone Startup Sensofusion Acquires Atol Aviation, Launches Sensofusion Aviation In a strategic move that promises to reshape the landscape of drone detection and surveillance, Helsinki-based Sensofusion has announced its acquisition of Finnish aircraft manufacturer Atol Aviation. This acquisition marks the launch of Sensofusion Aviation, a new chapter in the company’s journey toward expanding its expertise in air-to-ground reconnaissance. Expanding Horizons: The Acquisition and Its Implications While the financial terms of the deal remain undisclosed, the acquisition of Atol Aviation is set to significantly enhance Sensofusion's capabilities. Known for…

Belgium’s Magnax Secures €35.5 Million with Foxconn Backing to Industrialise Axial Flux Motor Technology Introduction In a significant leap for Belgium's DeepTech landscape, Magnax, a pioneering company specializing in yokeless axial flux electric motor technology, has successfully secured €35.5 million in funding. This substantial investment comes from Pan-International Industrial Corp., a member of the Foxconn Group, and marks a pivotal moment in Magnax's journey toward industrialization. With foreign direct investment approval secured, this deal positions Pan-International as Magnax's largest shareholder, bridging European innovation with Asia's advanced manufacturin…

Europe Lost the B2C Tech Race. Can It Win in B2B? Introduction In the global tech arena, Europe has long been overshadowed by Silicon Valley and other innovation hubs, particularly in the business-to-consumer (B2C) space. From social media giants to e-commerce behemoths, American and Asian companies have dominated the consumer tech landscape. However, as the tech world evolves, Europe's strengths in business-to-business (B2B) technology present a compelling opportunity for the continent to carve out a significant niche. Could Europe's prowess in B2B be its ticket to tech leadership? The B2C Landscape: A Missed Opportunity Europe's struggle in the B2C sector is not du…