EUVC

Welcome to a new episode of the EUVC podcast, where our good friends Dan Bowyer and Mads Jensen from SuperSeed, in discussion with Lomax Ward from Outsized Ventures to cover recent news and movements in the European tech landscape.Behind the headlines—wind implosions, deep tech dead ends, exit deserts, secondaries, and AI drama—lie seismic shifts that will define the trajectory of European startups and the capital that fuels them.Here’s what’s covered:01:30 Europe’s Wind Sector in Crisis05:12 Hornsea 4 Fallout & Government Accountability10:24 The Collapse of Deep Tech Momentum in the UK15:36 Public Sector Catastrophes: Fujitsu’s £12B Flop20:48 UK-EU Youth Mobility Deal & Trade Strategy26:00 Trump, IP Tariffs & Global Trade Disruption31:12 RIA Funds & the Evolving VC Model41:36 Secondary Markets in Venture46:48 The AI Arms Race: OpenAI vs. Google52:00 European Drone Unicorns & GovTech

In this episode, Andreas Munk Holm talks with Jon Coker, co-founder and GP at Eka Ventures, to unpack the strategy behind their conviction-led investment model and its outsized outcomes. Jon shares why Eka’s focus on consumer health and sustainable consumption is redefining what it means to deliver impact from venture, not just within it.Jon challenges the traditional index-style logic of venture capital, arguing instead for deep diligence, founder-first frameworks, and high-bar decision-making shaped by firsthand experience with outlier success. This episode is a masterclass in aligning fund design, sourcing strategy, and conviction-building to deliver both impact and performance.Here’s what’s covered:03:25 Why Eka Doubled Down on Concentrated Portfolios05:44 Structural Drivers Behind the Portfolio Strategy07:18 Challenging the Index Logic of Venture14:05 How Eka's Style Shapes Decision-Making Processes16:34 Consumer Tech: Eka's Favorite Layer Cake21:05 Bias for Action: A Key Founder Trait28:35 Building Conviction: The Founder's Role at Eka29:12 Eka's Deep Founder Diligence Model44:57 Impact From Venture vs. Impact In Venture50:57 Scaling Impact: Why Depth and Scale Matter

In this episode, Andreas sits down with Exit of The Year Finalist Fergal Mullen, Founding Partner at Highland Europe, to explore the firm’s growth-only investment strategy and what it really takes to scale durable, capital-efficient European champions.Fergal shares why Highland’s equal partnership model is more than just internal structure—it’s a reflection of how trust, alignment, and founder collaboration drive outcomes. From turning operational efficiency into alpha to navigating U.S. expansion and cap table cleanups, this episode lays out a blueprint for growth with discipline in a market still shaped by cycles, hype, and hard-earned fundamentals.🎧 Here’s what’s covered:01:15 Spinning Out from Highland Capital & Building a Growth-Only Fund02:30 Why Equal Partnership Structure Matters—for GPs and Founders04:20 Sensible Growth > Blitzscaling: Highland’s Core Investment Philosophy09:10 Founder Coachability, No-Frills Marketing & Building Trust Post-Investment11:50 Exiting and Re-Investing: When and Why to Consult LPs13:45 US Expansion: Why Founders Must Move to Make It Work16:00 Europe’s Best Exit Year? Why Fundamentals (Still) Win17:55 Tourist Capital: How Cycles Distort Venture Discipline19:20 Founders’ Liquidity and Cap Table Cleanups—Done Right24:30 Closing Reflections from Fergal: Growth with Discipline, AlwaysExit of The Year Sponsor: Ace AlternativesAt ACE Alternatives, we’re honoured to sponsor the Exit of the Year Award at the EUVC Summit. This award celebrates not only the incredible achievements of founders and their teams but also the vital roles played by the GPs who champion them and the LPs who believe in their vision. Together, these efforts create success stories that drive innovation, growth, and long-term impact in the venture ecosystem. We’re thrilled to recognise and celebrate these collective milestones.

In this episode, Andreas Munk Holm sits down with Andreas Klinger—founding team at Product Hunt, ex-CTO at On Deck, and now GP at Prototype Capital—to dive into the work behind EU Inc., a grassroots initiative to fix Europe’s fragmented startup ecosystem by rewriting its regulatory plumbing.Klinger shares how his experience as a founder and investor on both sides of the Atlantic led to a mission to standardize how we do business in Europe. They unpack how EU Inc. is working with the ecosystem—associations, communities, and top GPs—to propose a concrete policy blueprint aimed at simplifying scaling across borders.But the conversation goes much deeper: into the role of media as a self-selecting tool for ambition, how to build conviction and access as a micro-VC, and why VCs must engage with both macro-level systems change and micro-level founder support to make a lasting impact.Here’s what’s covered:01:15 From Product Hunt & AngelList to Fixing European Venture02:30 Why Klinger Made VC a Full-Time Play06:10 Vlogging Hyper-Ambition: Behind-the-Scenes of Europe's Top Startups09:30 The Cultural Gap: Work Ethic, Values & Systemic Signals12:00 The Hidden Power of Performative Culture (and Its Risks)14:22 What EU Inc. Actually Is: A Business-Led Policy Blueprint18:30 Industry-Wide Buy-In: Why Everyone's Signing the EU Inc. Manifesto24:15 Can VCs Stay Apolitical While Driving Change?34:00 Reports Don’t Build Economies—People with Bias for Action Do37:10 Action, Not Words: What Europe Really Needs Next

In this short but insightful episode of the EUVC Podcast, we’re joined by George Robson of Sequoia and Benjamin, our trusted ambassador from Tech Barbecue, for a candid conversation on the transformative impact of AI—especially through the lens of content creation.The group touches on the disconnect between innovators and the mainstream when it comes to AI adoption. George and Benjamin reflect on the massive potential of AI, the surprisingly slow uptake among everyday users, and how those on the cutting edge are already rethinking workflows, communication, and strategy.Here’s what’s covered:05:46 Reconciling European Optimism with U.S. Skepticism17:22 U.S. Views on Europe: Misconceptions & Missed Nuance21:00 The Return of Real Venture: Deep Tech vs. SaaS24:00 Evaluating Deep Tech Founders: What Sequoia Looks For26:59 Adapting Sequoia’s Platform to Serve Technical Founders29:57 Scale-Up Capital in Europe: Reality vs. Perception32:11 AI Company Metrics: Changing Signals & Due Diligence34:56 Explosion of Founders in the AI Era: A Double-Edged Sword36:59 Why Some European Companies Don’t Scale Big Enough42:54 Foundational Principles for Building in the AI Era

Welcome to a new episode of the EUVC podcast, where Dan Bowyer and Mads Jensen of SuperSeed and Lomax from Outsized Ventures dive deep into the macro and micro of European venture, joined this week by special guest Chris Elphick, Head of Venture Capital at the British Private Equity & Venture Capital Association (BVCA).Together, they pull back the curtain on the real stories shaping VC—from pension reform to geopolitical shocks, blackout readiness, and the transatlantic battle for AI and aerospace dominance.Here’s what’s covered:03:15 What Really Happens at a VC Conference?07:40 Politicians Using AI: Tech Literacy or National Security Risk?12:01 UK Local Elections: Rise of Reform & Political Fragmentation18:20 Trump’s Tariffs: Recession Risk & Global Trade Realignments22:33 Heart Aerospace Flies to LA: A Blow to Europe?28:04 UK VC Fundraising Rebounds—but Where’s the LP Money?33:42 The Pension Problem: Zero UK Pensions Backing UK VC?48:58 NATO x Deeptech: Europe’s First Combat Robots?52:35 Portugal’s Great Blackout: A Warning for Renewable Grids1:03:00 Show Me the Money: Can Pension Reform Really Unlock Capital for UK VC?

In this episode, Andreas Munk Holm talks with Daniel Dippold to unpack the vision behind EWOR, a venture platform designed not as a fund but as a self-reinforcing ecosystem where LPs become builders, the community drives capital, and Europe’s boldest entrepreneurs find a launchpad.Daniel challenges the traditional LP-GP dynamic, advocating instead for an interconnected flywheel where education, storytelling, and systems-thinking empower both founders and funders. From the structural flaws in European venture to the cultural shifts needed to drive generational change, this episode is a masterclass in rethinking the venture equation from first principles.Here’s what’s covered:02:47 The Origin of Ewor: Lessons from Building Momentum07:12 Understanding the LP Journey11:25 The European LP Landscape vs. the U.S.15:33 Structuring EWOR as a Flywheel, Not a Fund21:10 Solving for LP Education and Community26:45 Why Now: The Timing Behind EWOR’s Launch30:30 LPs as Builders: Shifting the Narrative35:18 How EWOR Aims to Serve GPs42:14 Storytelling, Visibility, and the Next Chapter

In this episode, Charles Martin of Kinnevik unpacks how their evergreen investment model fuels sustainable growth—enabling long-term, hands-on support that aligns deeply with entrepreneurs through every stage. By eliminating the pressure of fixed fund lifecycles, Kinnevik can take a hands-on approach, offering support through various growth stages and aligning closely with entrepreneurs over time.Charles highlights the shift in venture capital, where today’s focus is not just on financial returns but also on building adaptable companies with strong governance and positive societal impact. Kinnevik’s approach exemplifies this broader movement toward deeper, more collaborative partnerships in driving lasting success.Here’s what’s covered:05:10 AI in the Nordics: Talent and Innovation08:56 The Importance of Operational Talent13:16 Spotting Outlier Talent and Venture Insights25:22 Evaluating Founders: Experience vs. Potential39:02 The Importance of People in Venture Capital44:53 The Future of AI and Talent

In this episode, Andreas Munk Holm talks with Sara Kappelmark, Co-CEO of Norrsken Foundation, and Willem Vriesendorp, Founder of Sustainable Public Affairs, to explore the powerful intersection of venture capital, sustainability, and EU policymaking.In this episode, Sara and Willem share how they’re bridging the gap between Europe’s most mission-driven founders and the often distant world of regulation, starting with the launch of the Norrsken House in Brussels. From climate tech to deep tech, they unpack why now is the moment for VCs and startups to engage with policy, how smart regulation can unlock real scale, and why Europe may be on the brink of its own era of exceptionalism.Here’s what’s covered:04:15 The Importance of Regulation in Venture Capital06:04 The Excitement in Brussels: Tech and Policy12:27 The Role of Norkin House in Brussels16:55 Engaging in Policy as a Small VC Firm or Startup20:26 The Importance of Sustainability in Tech26:07 The Role of VCs and Founders in Shaping Policy

In this episode of our "Behind European Unicorns" series, David Cruz e Silva talks with Dan Vahdat, the founder and CEO of Huma, to unpack the journey behind one of Europe’s standout digital health scale-ups. Founded in 2011, Huma is headquartered in London and has grown to approximately 500 employees, raising over €275 million to date.Dan shares how the company evolved from supporting rare diseases to building a disease-agnostic, globally scalable platform used by healthcare systems, research institutions, and pharmaceutical giants. Here’s what’s covered:07:09 The Evolution of Huma09:56 Challenges and Future Vision22:16 The Challenges of Starting a Digital Health Company22:40 Geographical Focus and Strategy29:57 Navigating Regulatory Challenges in Digital Health36:12 Partnerships and Organizational Growth41:26 Future Vision and Expansion Plans for Huma

Welcome to a new episode of our podcast series focused on impact, where August Soliv, author of Impact Supporters, and Douglas Sloan, Managing Director at Better Society Capital, talk with Marie Ekeland, Founder and CEO of 2050 and one of Europe’s most forward-thinking impact investors.In this episode, Marie shares how her path, from coding at J.P. Morgan to founding France Digitale and now 2050, has been driven by a deep curiosity and a passion for building businesses that matter. She discusses why the classic VC model falls short in addressing today’s biggest challenges and how she is rewriting the rules with a regenerative, evergreen fund that aligns profit with purpose.Here’s what’s covered:05:53 Challenges and Systemic Issues in Tech and Impact VC10:15 The Concept of Alignment in Impact VC28:17 Reinventing the VC Model for a Sustainable Future33:17 Rethinking the VC Model: Extending Time Horizons37:14 Evergreen Model: Diversifying Risk and Liquidity39:53 Understanding the Science Behind Climate Change

Welcome to a new episode of the EUVC podcast, where our good friends Dan Bowyer and Mads Jensen from SuperSeed in a discussion with Andrew J. Scott, Founding Partner at 7percent Ventures, cover recent news and movements in the European tech landscape 💬

In this episode, Andreas Munk Holm talks with Karma Samdup, Head of Private Funds and Venture in Europe in Haynes Boone's London office, and Vicki Odette, Partner in Dallas and New York, at Haynes Boone. They discuss the legal considerations in launching and managing venture capital funds. They also provide a detailed overview of key issues such as fund structuring, regulatory compliance, cornerstone LP dynamics, GP commitments, default provisions, and expense policies. They also discuss practical guidance on compensation models for key employees, using side letters, and negotiating with different types of investors.Here’s what’s covered:03:59 The Importance of Legal Expertise in Fund Management10:58 Key Legal Considerations for Fund Managers26:31 Navigating LP Negotiations35:57 Effective Communication with LPs40:48 Compensation Strategies for Key Employees45:00 Hiring from Competitors: Best Practices47:11 Protecting Your Firm from Departing Employees

In this episode of our CVC series, Andreas Munk Holm and our CVC in-house expert, Jeppe Høier, talk with Marika King, Head of PINC, the corporate venture arm of Paulig.Marika shares how PINC was born to accelerate core innovation and deliver long-term impact across health, sustainability, and food security. She explains why PINC goes earlier than most CVCs and how they leverage Paulig’s R&D and cultural DNA to validate, support, and scale startups. Marika also offers candid reflections on governance structures, founder dynamics, and how her journey through burnout shaped her values as an investor.Here’s what’s covered:03:10 Early Stage Investments and Validation16:54 Governance and Structure of Pink Ventures24:00 Lessons in Structuring a Corporate Venture Fund26:34 Understanding the Role of a CVC27:03 Misconceptions About CVCs28:49 Flexibility and Patience in CVC Investments31:29 The Importance of Founder-Friendly A

In this episode we're spotlighting Emerging Manager of the Year finalist Concept Ventures. Andreas talks with Reece Chowdhry, Founding Partner of Concept Ventures, about his bold approach to pre-seed: leading rounds, writing big checks early, and building founder trust from day one.Curious who else made the shortlist? Stay tuned—the big reveal’s coming soon.Reece shares his journey into early-stage investing and explains how his approach to pre-seed funding means writing big lead checks when others hesitate, building trust and momentum with founders right from the start. He also opens up about his early experiences in tech investing, which shaped his conviction to back talented teams and innovative ideas in a maturing European ecosystem. Reece also dives into the heart of his investment philosophy, focusing on the power of a strong people process and unwavering conviction. He outlines how his team’s careful evaluation of team dynamics and growth mindset helps startups skip rounds of dilution and accelerate their progress.Here what's covered:03:02 Reece's Journey into Investing06:35 The Evolution and Philosophy of Concept Ventures09:44 Challenges and Strategies in the Pre-Seed Ecosystem23:38 Collaborative Investment Strategies25:00 The Importance of People in Venture Capital26:25 Father-Son Partnership Dynamics28:52 Public Markets Insight in Venture Capital

In this episode of the EUVC podcast, Andreas talks with Carmen Alfonso Rico, a self-described VC turned angel at Cocoa Ventures. and Evan Finkel, Head of Venture Capital Investments at Integra Global Advisors.Evan outlines a framework for how LP expectations evolve across different fund stages, highlighting key criteria like thesis clarity, team credibility, track record, and consistency of execution. Carmen shares her experience raising Cocoa Fund I during a peak market and the challenges of navigating a very different environment for Fund II. Together, they explore practical strategies for targeting the right LPs, understanding different LP profiles, and managing long-term relationships.Here’s what’s covered:11:36 Challenges in the European LP Ecosystem29:51 Long-term Commitment and Strategy38:46 Evaluating the Product: Key Considerations39:54 Importance of Historical Track Record41:22 Decision-Making Process in Investments54:14 The Role of LPs in Fund Management01:02:15 Challenges of Being a Fund Manager

Welcome to a new episode of the EUVC podcast, where our good friends Dan Bowyer and Mads Jensen from SuperSeed in a discussion with Andrew J. Scott, Founding Partner at 7percent Ventures and Lomax Ward, General Partner at Outsized Ventures, cover recent news and movements in the European tech landscape 💬Here’s what’s covered:01:31 Recent News and Highlights02:38 European Defense and Tech Investments07:41 UK and Turkish Startup Ecosystems30:42 Capital Efficiency in Europe vs. Silicon Valley31:34 Navigating the Middle of the Portfolio34:57 Insights from the 2024 PitchBook Report45:17 The Rise of the Turkish Startup Ecosystem

In this episode of our CVC series, Andreas Munk Holm talks with Bruno Moraes, Managing Director at Wayra, Telefónica’s corporate venture capital arm. With nearly 15 years of experience, Wayra stands out for its focus on driving strategic business value by connecting startups with Telefónica’s core operations across Europe and Latin America.Here’s what’s covered:03:40 Investment Strategies and Goals04:51 Fund Management and Structure06:32 Geographical and Vertical Focus08:28 Team Structure and Operations19:54 Evolution and Growth of WRA22:56 Incentives and Compensation in CVC

In this episode of the EUVC podcast, our host, David Cruz e Silva, talks with Chris Wade, Co-Founder of Isomer Capital, to explore the evolving European venture landscape in 2025. Reflecting on a decade since Isomer’s inception, Chris shares insights on the industry's growth and how Europe has expanded from just 20 unicorns in 2014 to nearly 400 today.Here’s what’s covered:02:25 Celebrating 10 Years of Isomer05:39 The Growth and Future of European Venture Capital08:43 Challenges and Opportunities in the VC Landscape17:56 Transparency and Communication in Venture Capital25:57 The Role of VCs on Company Boards27:17 Understanding DPI and Secondary Transactions39:16 The Future of European VC and Emerging Managers

Welcome to the first episode of our brand new podcast series focused on impact, where August Soliv, author of Impact Supporters, and Douglas Sloan, Managing Director at Better Society Capital, talk with Niklas Adalberth, co-founder of Klarna and the visionary behind the Norrsken Foundation.Here’s what’s covered:02:14 Niklas' Personal Journey and Realizations06:45 The Birth of Norsken Foundation11:30 Norsken's Global Expansion and Impact13:35 Balancing Commercial Success and Impact25:07 The Role of AI in Impact Investing39:50 Building a Mission-Driven Team43:04 Future of Impact VC and Norsken's Vision

In this episode, Andreas Munk Holm talks with , co-founder of S16CV, a venture capital fund built on the foundation of a tight-knit founder community. Oleg shares the story of how S16 began in a Moscow apartment he shared with fellow founders, where casual poker nights evolved into startup discussions, business clubs, and an informal incubator.Here’s what’s covered:01:18 Alex's Entrepreneurial Journey05:17 Oleg's Background and Investment Experience06:50 The Birth of S16: From Poker Nights to a Tech Incubator10:37 Building a Global Community and Fund11:48 The Fund's Unique Approach and Strategy19:37 Productizing the Fund: Technology and Community29:36 Investment Success and Future Goals

Welcome to a new episode of the EUVC podcast, where our good friends Dan Bowyer from SuperSeed, in discussion with Andrew J. Scott, Founding Partner at 7percent Ventures, and Lomax Ward, General Partner at Outsized Ventures, cover recent news and movements in the European tech landscape 💬Here’s what’s covered:01:22 Klarna's IPO and European Market Insights04:19 AI, Tariffs, and Future Predictions24:35 European Venture Capital Trends25:52 Generative AI and Market Speculations29:56 Challenges in the European Tech Ecosystem35:30 UK AI Sector Report Insights46:22 Exciting Deals and Future Prospects

In this insightful episode of “Path to Market”, Director Natasha Lytton and co-host Micah Smurthwaite, Partner at Pipeline Ventures, are joined by Alicia Carney, a seasoned product marketing expert with extensive experience at high-growth startups like Deliveroo. Together, they dive deep into identifying and validating Ideal Customer Profiles (ICPs) in pre and post product-market fit stages. Alicia shares her insights on navigating early market fit through to scaling operations post-product market fit.Here what's covered:01:01 - 01:36 | Pre-Product Market Fit Strategies01:36 - 02:30 | Validating Customer Assumptions02:30 - 03:50 | Effective Customer Interviews03:50 - 05:04 | Identifying ICP and Pain Points06:23 - 07:39 | The Importance of Customer Feedback07:39 - 08:54 | Retention vs. Acquisition Strategies08:54 - 10:15 | Post-Product Market Fit Tactics

In this episode of our CVC series, Andreas Munk Holm and our CVC in-house expert, Jeppe Høier, talk with Gitte Aabo to explore the world of corporate venture. With a remarkable background that spans 27 years at Leo Pharma, including 12 years as CEO and further experience at GN Hearing, Gitte shares her journey in building innovation initiatives like Leo iLab.She explains how she helped develop digital tools to improve treatment outcomes and diagnostics, drawing on her extensive experience in both board leadership and hands-on management to drive change.During the conversation, Gitte dives into aligning corporate culture with innovative practices. She emphasizes that success in corporate venturing doesn’t come from following a one-size-fits-all formula but from ongoing, one-on-one discussions with board members and key executives. By integrating strategic insights with practical initiatives, she shares how innovation teams must work closely with the core business to ensure long-term impact, even if the financial returns take time to materialize.Chapters:03:55 Establishing Leo Innovation Lab04:15 Digital Tools for Skin Disease Treatment05:01 Improving Diagnosis with Mobile Tools05:16 Philosophy of Patient Focus06:20 Structure and Funding of Leo iLab08:10 Challenges and Learnings from Leo iLab08:28 Collaboration with US and External Investments09:31 Balancing Innovation and Core Business11:24 Reflections on Corporate Innovation14:43 Transition to GN Hearing15:50 Integrating Innovation in GN Hearing17:00 Strategic Partnerships and External Innovation19:52 Challenges in Corporate and Startup Collaboration

In this episode, Andreas Munk Holm talks with Enis Hulli, General Partner at e2vc, and Gorken Yurtseven, founder and CTO of Fal.ai, to unpack the story behind one of Europe’s fastest-growing AI startups.Gorkem shares how Fal.ai carved a unique niche in the generative media space, focusing not on text but AI-generated images, video, and audio. Enis reflects on the challenges (and perks) of backing a long-time friend turned founder rocketship. Together, they walk through the journey from scrappy pre-seed rounds to a $49M Series B led by Andreessen Horowitz, offering an unfiltered look at what it takes to scale in a hyper-competitive, fast-moving AI landscape.Gorkem also discusses building a sales motion from scratch as a technical founder, the importance of developer-first products, and how being in San Francisco created viral moments that fueled Fal’s breakout growth. Meanwhile, Enis shares how Fal’s rise shapes his investment strategy, doubling down on diaspora founders and “blue ocean” markets where Europe’s engineering talent can quietly build global winners.Chapters:04:50 Deep Dive into Faleye and Generative Media23:48 Revenue Growth and Market Dynamics25:30 Strategic Market Positioning29:10 Sales and Team Management35:18 Building in San Francisco vs. Europe47:33 Lessons and Insights for Founders and VCs

In this episode, Andreas Munk Holm talks with Alex Konoplyasty, Managing Partner at Flashpoint Venture Growth. Currently raising its fourth venture growth fund with a target of $200 million, Flashpoint manages $500 million across multiple funds. The firm is headquartered in the UK and focuses on Series A investments in global high-growth B2B software companies from Europe and Israel. With 80 portfolio companies—including Guesty, Chili Piper, and OfficeRnD—Alex and his team bring deep expertise in guiding startups toward sustainable success.In this conversation, we discuss the nuts and bolts of exits, co-investments, and the role of venture debt in today’s market. Alex shares how Flashpoint Venture Growth builds operator-led portfolios, taking a hands-on approach to deal sourcing and capital efficiency and helping founders make tough decisions.Chapters: 06:54 Fundraising Challenges and Strategies11:05 Portfolio Management and Exits28:51 Understanding Liquidation Preferences30:02 Valuation Discrepancies in Different Markets32:04 Strategies for Founders to Manage Valuations36:49 Investment Criteria and Founder Fit47:39 Co-Investment Opportunities and Challenges

Welcome to a new episode of the EUVC podcast, where our good friends Dan Bowyer from SuperSeed, in discussion with Andrew J. Scott, Founding Partner at 7percent Ventures, and Lomax Ward, General Partner at Outsized Ventures, cover recent news and movements in the European tech landscape 💬

In this episode, Andreas Munk Holm talks with Jim Pulcrano, an entrepreneur turned venture capital educator and professor at IMD Business School. Jim shares how his early startup experience in Switzerland pulled him into the orbit of venture capital back when the ecosystem was still in its infancy. He talks about creating IMD’s VC Asset Management Program, which aims to give LPs a crash course in venture, teaching them both the appeal and the real difficulty of being a GP. It’s a fresh look at how education can bridge the knowledge gap between conservative allocators and the fast-moving world of startups.Jim also shares what he’s learned running IMD’s startup competition and Swiss scale-up programs. He shares insights from his research into VC behavior, like why less experienced investors are often eager to lead rounds while mid-career ones take a backseat. He explains why experienced GPs tend to source proactively and why most avoid relying too much on HR assessments when evaluating founders.Chapters:01:38 Jim's Journey into Venture Capital02:42 Creating the VC Asset Management Program03:37 Challenges and Strategies in Educating LPs07:24 Understanding Pension Fund Managers16:40 The IMD Starter Competition18:29 Swiss Startups and Silicon Valley20:04 European vs. US Entrepreneurial Ambitions22:50 Can You Teach Venture Capital?25:38 Recognizing Entrepreneurial Potential26:04 Swiss Scale-Up Program Overview26:32 Challenges in Scaling Up27:16 Leadership in Scaling Companies28:05 Venture-Backed vs. Bootstrapped Startups28:57 Founder-Led Companies and VC Opinions31:41 VCs and Lead Investors36:33 VC Experience and Investment Strategies41:17 Evaluating Founders and Teams46:18 Outbound Sourcing by Experienced VCs

In today’s episode of our CVC series, Andreas Munk Holm and our CVC in-house expert, Jeppe Høier, talk with Ida Christine Brun, Venture Investments and Partnership Director at Maersk Growth. With over 13 years at Maersk under her belt, Ida brings experience from commercial business development and supply chain management to her current role in corporate venturing. She explains how Maersk Growth invests in early-stage startups focused on decarbonizing and digitizing supply chains, using a well-rounded approach that blends equity investments with strategic partnerships.During the conversation, Ida shares how her team leverages Maersk’s deep logistics expertise to test and validate innovative solutions in real-world settings. She discusses the value of engaging with both internal teams and external VC partners to drive impactful change, emphasizing the importance of addressing current business challenges and paving the way for future growth. By integrating strategic insights with practical pilot projects, Maersk Growth is working to bridge the gap between groundbreaking technology and sustainable, long-term industry transformation.Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀Chapters:03:08 Ida's Journey at Maersk03:38 Transition to Corporate Venturing04:02 Maersk Growth's Mission and Team04:26 Corporate Venturing at Maersk Growth04:54 Investment Focus: Climate Tech and Supply Chain05:52 Portfolio and Investment Strategy06:39 Strategic Partnerships and Internal Collaboration07:05 Challenges in Corporate Venturing07:30 Engaging with Internal Teams 09:24 Value Creation for Portfolio Companies13:56 Decarbonizing Supply Chains14:14 Investment Strategy and Exciting Startups17:35 Global Collaboration for Innovation22:21 Navigating Regulatory Challenges32:49 Corporate Venturing vs. Corporate Venture Capital36:59 Collaborating with VCs and Investors

We are excited to introduce you to Seedcamp’s new podcast series, “Path to Market,” where Director Natasha Lytton and co-host Micah Smurthwaite, Partner at Pipeline Ventures, dissect the art and science behind effective go-to-market (GTM) strategies for startups and scale-ups.Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur grappling with your first sales hires or a seasoned founder looking to refine your GTM approach, this podcast aims to bring you valuable insights from industry experts.In today’s fast-moving entrepreneurial landscape, mastering the art and science of go-to-market strategies is vital for startups and scale-ups. While companies must drive customers, revenue, and monetization sooner than ever before, founders struggle to find a consolidated resource that distinguishes between various GTM motions. Our podcast aims to fill this gap by providing diverse insights through the lenses of both sales and marketing.The introductory episode explores essential elements of go-to-market planning, real-world examples of startups overcoming market-entry challenges, and practical advice on avoiding common pitfalls.

In today’s episode, David Cruz e Silva talks with Justinas Milasauskas, an investment manager at Willgrow, a single-family office based in Lithuania. Justinas explains how Willgrow approaches venture investments worldwide, focusing on US and European early-stage managers. He shares the family office’s history, reasons for getting into venture, and how they think about manager selection, covering everything from ticket sizes to fund-of-funds benefits. It’s a great look at how an LP outside the traditional financial hubs can still build a global venture portfolio.In this conversation, Justinas also reveals the importance of balancing conviction with consistent due diligence, highlighting why his team benchmarks managers against top peers worldwide. He talks about how they stay disciplined by maintaining a structured watchlist, stacking GPs based on strategy fit, and investing across multiple vintages. It’s an honest, behind-the-scenes view of how a first-generation family office grows its exposure to private markets while keeping that entrepreneurial spirit front and center.Chapters: 03:02 WillGrow's Investment Strategy and Focus04:31 The Background and Experience of Justinas08:39 Building a Convincing Strategy for Sourcing09:45 The Role of Senior Advisors and Fund of Funds12:09 The Importance of Diversification and Long-Term Commitment13:56 Understanding WillGrow's Investment Approach14:28 Investment Strategy and Risk Profiles18:10 Active vs Passive Investment Approach20:54 Biggest Learnings in Venture Investing22:43 The Importance of Proper Benchmarking23:53 Diversification Across Funds and Vintages28:03 The Role of Stack Ranking in Investment Decisions34:47 Overcoming Barriers to Access in Venture Investing42:45 The Value of Fund of Funds43:48 Book Recommendation: Leading by Alex Ferguson

Welcome to a new episode of the EUVC podcast, where our good friends Dan Bowyer and Mads Jensen from SuperSeed discuss with Alex Macdonald, Co-Founder & CEO of sequel, and Lomax Ward, General Partner at Outsized Ventures, to cover recent news and movements in the European tech landscape 💬Chapters: 03:54 The Fall of 23andMe05:37 Challenges in Commercializing Healthcare Data08:11 Project Europe: A New Venture Initiative14:51 Addressing Criticisms and Diversity18:11 The Need for Growth Capital in Europe28:03 Rachel Reeves' Spring Statement and Economic Outlook34:17 Navigating Economic Challenges35:23 Spring Statement and Policy Implications36:08 AI Corner: OpenAI's New Developments36:54 Deep Seek's V3 Model and AI Competition37:53 Google's Gemini and AI Wars39:00 AI and Copyright Issues43:08 Scandals in the Tech World50:08 Brand Power and Soft Power51:58 US-EU Relations and Defense Implications

In today’s episode of the EUVC podcast, Andreas Munk Holm is joined by Victoria Palatnik, Managing Partner at Raw Ventures, Peter Effenberg, Founder & CEO of Jay, and Severin Zugmayer, Founder of New Renaissance Ventures.The discussion starts by exploring why consumers are returning to trusted, branded media for quality journalism, even as the digital world bombards us with endless information streams. It also tackles the challenges posed by regulatory frameworks like GDPR, the rapid pace of technological change, and emerging opportunities in areas such as shoppable content and digital twin technology—painting an engaging picture of the media tech future.Chapters:01:07 The Rise of Legacy Media02:41 Victoria's Perspective on Media Tech03:47 Peter's Journey in Media Tech05:43 Severin's Focus on Creative Industries07:32 Mapping Media Tech Hubs in Europe12:02 The Shift in Media Branding17:31 Challenges in Monetizing Media Content19:13 Debate on Legacy Media's Future28:44 Media Bias in the US vs Europe29:43 The Role of Journalists in Europe 31:06 The Impact of Technology on Journalism31:50 The Rise of Independent News Platforms32:15 Challenges in Modern Journalism33:15 The Flourishing Creator Economy35:27 AI's Role in Media Tech39:36 Generative AI and Media Production46:59 Ethical and Legal Considerations in AI52:24 Future of Media Tech and AI

In today’s episode, Andreas Munk Holm talks with Jonatan Luther-Bergquist from Inflection.xyz, who shares his journey in framing crypto fundamentally as a compute technology and formulating their thesis on sovereign compute back in 2023. Jonatan explains that while the early work in crypto helped lay the groundwork for disruptive technology, he saw a bigger picture emerging - a need for Europe and other regions to improve their digital independence.In this conversation, Jonatan dives into the three pillars of his sovereign compute thesis: scaling compute capabilities, building resilient systems, and ensuring access to data flows. He illustrates his points with real-world examples, from photonics and semiconductor technologies to communications that can make all the difference in modern defense scenarios. By drawing parallels between evolving technology and the pressing geopolitical challenges, like those seen in Ukraine, Jonatan makes a compelling case for why investing in robust, forward-thinking compute solutions is essential for a secure and prosperous future.Chapters: 00:23 The Importance of Compute for Sovereignty00:38 Key Areas for Improvement in Compute01:27 Integrating Compute into Daily Life02:54 The Story of Inflection04:03 Inflection's Early Focus on Crypto 05:18 Transition to Sovereign Compute11:22 Challenges in the Crypto Space17:22 Understanding Sovereign Compute21:24 Equipping Compute Resources with Quality Data22:04 Understanding the Concept of Flow in Compute22:15 Evaluating Vertical Focus in VC Firms24:14 The Importance of Quality in Investment Decisions28:52 Exploring Technologies in Sovereign Compute29:40 Innovative Compute Solutions: From Semiconductors to Brain Tissue31:47 The Role of Communication in Modern Warfare33:48 The Geopolitical Importance of Sovereignty34:27 Personal and Professional Journey in Defense Tech41:26 Transitioning from Crypto to Sovereign Compute

In today’s episode, Andreas Munk Holm talks with Ertan Can, the Founding General Partner of Multiple Capital, a venture capital fund based in Luxembourg. Together, they delve into how micro funds work and why they’re becoming an attractive investment option for limited partners.Ertan discusses the role of manager selection and the benefits of a diversified micro-fund portfolio. He outlines LPs' challenges in sifting through hundreds of emerging funds each year, noting that a disciplined approach is needed to identify the best opportunities. The discussion also touches on the influence of local networks and market niches in sourcing high-quality deals and future trends in venture capital, highlighting how a strategic focus on micro funds may offer more sustainable and robust returns for LPs.Chapters: 02:15 Importance of Fund Size03:34 Emerging Managers and Small Funds04:56 Performance of Small Funds11:08 Management Fees and Small Funds12:41 Exit Valuations and Small Funds13:31 Summary of the Presentation14:49 Post-Presentation Discussion16:39 Challenges for LPs in Selecting Funds17:43 Optimal Number of Fund Managers19:13 Debate on Micro Funds21:27 Risk Perception in Venture Capital22:34 Alternative Investment Strategies26:37 Geographical and Vertical Specialization27:29 Future of the Venture Market

In today’s episode, Andreas Munk Holm talks with Enis Hulli, General Partner at e2vc, and Akin Babayigit, Co-founder of Tripledot Studios. Akin brings a wealth of experience from his journey across Turkey, the U.S., and the U.K., while Enis provides insights into the evolving ecosystems of Turkey and Eastern Europe. Together, they discuss how mobile gaming has emerged as a massive industry driven by a unique blend of creativity and data analytics and how the sector’s scale and business models differ significantly from traditional console and PC gaming.In this conversation, Akin and Enis delve into the latest trends reshaping mobile gaming, including the rapid adoption of AI to enhance gameplay and optimize monetization strategies. They also discuss the launch of Arcadia Gaming Advisors, a new $100 million fund designed to drive the next wave of innovation in gaming. Chapters: 02:58 How We Met: A Humorous Backstory04:56 Akin's Life Story: From Turkey to the UK06:01 Career Path: From Engineering to Gaming07:46 Tripledot and Gaming Success09:10 Investing in Gaming: Challenges and Opportunities12:08 The Misunderstood World of Gaming17:08 Mobile Gaming: A Unique Business Model23:08 Gaming Talent in Turkey and Eastern Europe25:11 Turkey's Unique Conditions for Success26:11 Gaming vs. E-commerce in Turkey27:03 Rise of Successful Turkish Gaming Companies27:35 Shifting Career Aspirations in Turkey28:18 The Importance of Iteration in Gaming28:47 Investment Strategies in Gaming30:50 Europe vs. US: A Venture Capital Perspective32:16 The Talent and Diversity in Europe40:14 The Future of Gaming with AI43:51 Launching a Mobile Gaming Fund

In today’s episode of the EUVC podcast, Andreas Munk Holm talks with Claude Ritter and Stefan Walter from NAP, formerly known as Cavalry and Rene Andres from the European Investment Fund (EIF).In today’s episode of the EUVC podcast, Andreas Munk Holm talks with Claude Ritter and Stefan Walter from NAP, formerly known as Cavalry and Rene Andres from the European Investment Fund (EIF).The conversation centers on Cavalry’s recent rebranding into NAP and evolving investment approach, which now emphasizes backing early-stage startups led by expert founders. The team explains how their shift from a broad, pre-seed focus to a more refined strategy—centered around proprietary data, instant utility, and interoperability—reflects the changing dynamics of the tech landscape in Europe.Our guests also discuss broader themes shaping the venture ecosystem, such as managing team dynamics and maintaining transparent, candid communication with limited partners. They share insights on the importance of agility in a market influenced by rapid technological change, political shifts, and the AI boom.Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀Chapters:02:35 Claude and Stefan's Background and Firm Overview03:52 Rene's Background and EIF's Role06:13 Current State of the European Venture Ecosystem 09:55 The Role of Tech in Politics17:47 Rebranding from Cavalry to NAP20:55 The Meaning Behind Nerds and Pioneers22:10 Managing Partnership Changes24:05 Navigating Team Changes in VC Firms24:39 The Importance of Adaptability26:00 Challenges and Strategies in Team Dynamics29:44 Honesty and Transparency with Investors32:08 Reflecting on Core Learnings36:55 The Evolution of Investment Theses38:41 Focusing on Proprietary Data and Instant Utility39:48 Interoperability: The Future of Business Models44:09 Expert Founders and Founder Future Fit48:28 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

Welcome to a new episode of the EUVC podcast, where our good friends Dan Bowyer and Mads Jensen from SuperSeed in a discussion with Andrew J. Scott, Founding Partner at 7percent Ventures and Lomax Ward, General Partner at Outsized Ventures, cover recent news and movements in the European tech landscape 💬

Welcome to a new episode of the EUVC podcast, where our good friend Dan Bowyer from SuperSeed talks with Andrew J. Scott, Founding Partner at 7percent Ventures, and Lomax Ward, General Partner at Outsized Ventures, to cover recent news and movements in the European tech landscape. 💬Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀

In today’s episode of our CVC series, Andreas and our CVC in-house expert, Jeppe Høier, talk with Ann-Sofie Ekberg, CEO of Volvo Cars Tech Fund, the corporate venture arm of Volvo Cars. Founded in 2018, the fund invests directly from Volvo’s balance sheet, backing startups in mobility, sustainability, and digitalization. While prioritizing strategic relevance, the fund maintains a disciplined investment approach, engaging with startups at various stages—predominantly Series A and B, with some selective seed investments.Under Ann-Sofie’s leadership, the Tech Fund has developed a structured approach to ensure investments align with Volvo’s readiness to adopt new technologies. She emphasizes the importance of startups having diverse customer bases beyond Volvo to avoid over-reliance. In this conversation, Ann-Sofie also shares insights into balancing strategic and financial priorities, how Volvo collaborates with competitors in CVC, and why she believes platform-based vehicle architectures will unlock faster innovation and startup adoption in the automotive industry.Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀Chapters:02:28 Understanding Volvo Cars and Volvo Group03:25 Corporate Venture at Volvo Cars03:50 Volvo Cars Technology Fund: History and Mission05:14 Investment Decisions and Internal Sponsors 07:06 Seed Investments and Strategic Disruptions08:05 Strategic vs. Financial Investments10:07 Portfolio Modeling and Investment Criteria12:33 Mandate and Budget Flexibility14:08 Challenges in the Automotive Industry17:40 The Role of Technology and Platforms20:04 Sustainability Goals and Initiatives22:59 Investment in Battery Technology26:17 Collaboration and Scaling Challenges33:41 Corporate Venturing and Competition39:47 Boardroom Dynamics and Ownership44:23 Success Stories and Additional Opportunities45:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Welcome to a new episode of our special series, At The Cap Table Series, where Sarah Finegan, Senior Investor at Antler, talks with Emma Phillips, Investment Partner at LocalGlobe. Local Globe is one of Europe’s most respected early-stage venture firms. Founded by Robin and Saul Klein, Local Globe has backed nearly 300 companies, including 17 unicorns and five IPOs, focusing on B2B software, applied AI, and the future of work.With deep entrepreneurial DNA and a commitment to investing in founders at the earliest stages, the firm plays a crucial role in shaping Europe's startup ecosystem. Since joining Local Globe nearly a decade ago, Emma has transitioned from an operating partner to a leading investor, bringing hands-on experience in scaling companies and navigating operational challenges.In this conversation, she shares her insights on what makes a great founder, the importance of first-principles thinking, and why exceptional talent can come from anywhere. We also dive into Local Globe’s unique approach to venture investing, the major trends shaping the future of work & AI, why founders should embrace unscalable solutions early on, and why Europe needs to build a more open and accessible venture ecosystem.Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀

Welcome to a new episode of the EUVC podcast, where our good friend Dan Bowyer from SuperSeed in a discussion with Andrew J. Scott, Founding Partner at 7percent Ventures, and Lomax Ward, General Partner at Outsized Ventures, to cover recent news and movements in the European tech landscape. 💬

In today’s episode, Andreas Munk Holm speaks with Sune Stilling and Christy McCaig, General Partners at Nine Realms, a venture fund focused on transforming global supply chains. With a target size of €200 million, Nine Realms is raising its first fund, screening high-potential Series A investments across Europe and North America.Notably, their portfolio and previous investments include innovative companies like Clearly, Forto, and Loadsmart, which drive change in logistics and sustainable operations. Sune and Christy bring their extensive experience from corporate ventures and logistics, including Maersk Growth, to identify startup opportunities that address today’s global supply chain challenges.In this conversation, they discuss the fund’s strategy of building a concentrated, operator-led portfolio to generate steady returns from trade sales, not just unicorn exits. They explore how evolving trends like AI optimization and sustainability open new market opportunities.Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀Chapters:02:20 Nine Realms Fund Overview03:05 Team Background and Expertise03:46 Christy's Professional Journey04:54 Sune's Professional Journey07:54 Building Nine Realms09:45 Collaboration Between CVCs and VCs10:46 Corporate VC Strategies12:04 Investment Structure and Decision Making15:18 European Supply Chain Innovation17:03 Investment Strategy and Allocation18:24 Portfolio Management and Value Creation28:09 Two-Sided Value Creation Model29:45 Strategic Investors and Partnerships35:43 Industry Trends and Themes for 202542:51 Resilience in Supply Chains

In today’s episode of the EUVC podcast, Andreas talks with Stephen Millard, Operating Partner & Chief Platform Officer at Notion Capital, a London-based fund exclusively investing in B2B SaaS. With roots dating back to early SaaS pioneers like Message Labs, Stephen brings deep operational know-how and a data-driven approach to venture investing. Notion Capital’s Cloud Champions latest report unpacks European SaaS companies' unique challenges, from navigating fragmented markets to scaling revenue rapidly, emphasizing the need for constant reinvention.Using extensive experience and real-world case studies, Stephen explains how today’s well-informed buyers reshape the traditional seller-buyer dynamic. He outlines the critical transition for founders: from a hands-on, experimental phase to a disciplined, outcome-focused strategy, ensuring that teams align across sales, marketing, and product development. Stephen also shares practical insights on adapting go-to-market strategy and building enduring, high-growth businesses in a rapidly evolving market landscape.Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀

Welcome to a new episode of the EUVC podcast, where our good friends Dan Bowyer and Mads Jensen from SuperSeed in a discussion with Andrew J. Scott, Founding Partner at 7percent Ventures and Karin Nielsen, Product & Growth Advisor at Unruly Labs, cover recent news and movements in the European tech landscape 💬

In today’s episode of the EUVC podcast, Andreas talks with Ingrid Bonde Åkerlind, a seasoned investor at Oxx, a venture capital firm focusing on B2B SaaS companies that operate from London and Stockholm. Backed by a $190 million second fund and a boutique, high-conviction approach, Oxx targets late Series A and Series B companies that have not only passed the product-market fit gauntlet but are now ready to scale. Ingrid’s unique blend of hands-on operational experience and investment insight helps her spot startups that truly understand their market dynamics.Drawing on her journey from building growth teams to steering venture investments, Ingrid explores the power of a well-defined Ideal Customer Profile (ICP). She explains how transitioning from an experimental phase to a focused customer strategy can align sales, marketing, and product teams for sustained success. In this conversation, she shares practical insights on refining go-to-market strategies and leveraging data-driven customer segmentation to drive operational efficiency and venture-scale returns.Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀

In today’s episode of The European VC, Andreas talks with Shmuel Chafets, co-founder and Partner at Target Global, one of Europe’s leading venture firms with investments spanning software, fintech, mobility, logistics, healthcare, and consumer internet. With over 140 portfolio companies, including Revolut, Delivery Hero, and TravelPerk, Target Global operates across Europe, Israel, the Middle East, and Africa, backing founders from early-stage to growth. Known for its pragmatic approach to investing, the firm is increasingly focused on AI-native startups and frontier technologies shaping the next decade.Since launching Target Global a decade ago, Shmuel has been at the forefront of European venture investing, navigating market cycles and shifting investment strategies in response to macro and technological trends. In this conversation, he shares his candid views on Europe's lagging position in AI, why Europe must shift from a risk-averse mindset to a creator-driven economy, and how AI is set to disrupt everything from public services to vertical SaaS. We also dive into why Target Global is moving earlier in its investment strategy, the growing relevance of Israel and the UAE in global tech, and why European bureaucracy remains one of the biggest obstacles to innovation.Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀

Welcome to a new episode of the EUVC podcast, where our good friends Dan Bowyer and Mads Jensen from SuperSeed have a discussion with Ben Prade, Partner at GP Bullhound, to cover recent news and movements in the European tech landscape. 💬

In today’s episode of the EUVC podcast, Andreas is joined by Bogdan Iordache, General Partner at Underline Ventures, and Jakob Stein, Vice President at Creandum, for a roundtable discussion on the latest insights from the Venture in Eastern Europe report launched yesterday by How to Web.Eastern Europe’s venture scene has seen remarkable growth, with an increase in international funding and a maturing ecosystem that’s producing more globally competitive startups than ever before. With capital flowing into follow-on rounds at an unprecedented rate and local funds growing their influence, the region is no longer an "exotic" investment destination—it’s a strategic one.In this conversation, we explore why Eastern European founders have to work harder to prove themselves, how global investors are adapting their strategies for the region, and which startup hubs are leading the charge in gaming, SaaS, and AI. We’ll also unpack the findings from the latest How to Web report, which highlights key investment trends, the role of local and international capital, and the biggest challenges still facing founders in the region.Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀

In today’s episode of our CVC series, Andreas and our CVC in-house expert, Jeppe Høier, sit down with Nicolas Sauvage, President of TDK Ventures, the corporate venture capital arm of TDK Corporation, a global leader in electronics and materials technology. With $350 million in AUM across three funds, TDK Ventures focuses on hard tech, deep tech, and energy transformation. It invests between $250K and $10 million per deal while balancing strategic alignment with venture-scale returns.Since founding TDK Ventures in 2019, Nicolas has built one of the market's most disciplined and entrepreneur-friendly CVCs, backing startups in sustainability, mobility, and advanced materials. Under his leadership, the firm has pioneered a unique "Diverse Advocate" investment process, ensuring rigorous due diligence and a first-principles approach to deep tech investing. In this conversation, Nicolas shares how TDK Ventures bridges the gap between startups and a global corporate parent, the power of patience in CVC, and why he believes nuclear fusion will be the defining energy source of the future.Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀