EUVC

In today’s episode, Andreas talks with Tom Wehmeier, Head of Intelligence at Atomico, to discuss the State of European Tech and what’s shaping the ecosystem's future. For over a decade, Tom has been at the forefront of data-driven investment strategies, market education, and ecosystem analysis at Atomico. He leads the firm's intelligence efforts, sits on the investment committee, and shapes European venture capital policy discussions.Operating across Europe, Atomico is a multi-stage venture capital firm with over 155 portfolio companies, 1 in 6 valued in excess of $1 billion. They’ve partnered with some of the continent’s biggest tech success stories, including Klarna, Stripe, and DeepL. Tom has been driving Atomico’s research efforts, particularly the annual State of European Tech report, which has become the most awaited yearly report in venture that helps us understand Europe’s investment landscape and future potential.In this conversation, Tom shares insights into Europe’s confidence crisis, the impact of regulation, and the future of AI and deep tech. He unpacks key findings from the latest State of European Tech report, discussing capital gaps, liquidity challenges, and why Europe’s fragmented markets can be a strength. The discussion also covers public market dynamics, how Europe can compete in AI, and government collaboration's role in deep tech 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 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 💬

In today’s episode, Andreas talks with Miki Yokoyama, Managing Director of Aurum Impact, the impact investment arm of the Goldbeck family office. Unlike most family offices that operate behind closed doors, Aurum Impact is taking a public stance—sharing its journey, investment strategy, and vision to inspire other families to engage in venture and impact investing.Since launching in February 2023, Aurum Impact has made seven direct startup investments in companies like Paebbl, The Landbanking Group, Voltfang, UNDO, CleanHub, and Cyclize, alongside ten venture funds, including Planet A, Systemiq, Revent, Breakthrough Energy Ventures, and Counteract. With a mission to invest in four to five startups and four to five funds annually, their approach is both strategic and deeply rooted in creating environmental and social impact.Miki and Andreas dive into the challenges of family office investing, the lack of transparency in the space, and the role of family wealth in shaping venture capital’s future. They also explore best practices for VCs fundraising from family offices, why many funds struggle to differentiate themselves, and how emerging fund managers can stand out in today’s competitive landscape.Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀

In today’s episode of the EUVC Podcast, Andreas talks with Juliet Bailin, Partner at General Catalyst, to explore the firm’s expansion in Europe, investment philosophy, and unique approach to venture capital. General Catalyst, known for backing companies like Stripe, Samsara, Livongo, and Mistral, operates with a global mindset while maintaining a deep commitment to early-stage investing.Juliet, who focuses on infrastructure and applied AI, shares how her history background shapes her perspective on venture, why truth-seeking is fundamental to being a great investor, and how General Catalyst’s collaborative culture enables them to operate as one unified firm across geographies. She also dives into the firm’s recent rebrand and refreshed core values, including playing the long game, serving others, and shaping ambiguity.In the second part of the conversation, we tackle an honest discussion on why venture needs a self-awareness reset. Juliet calls out common bad investor behaviors, from ghosting founders to exploding term sheets, and explains why overvaluing companies for ego reasons ultimately hurts founders the most. She also shares how General Catalyst ensures transparency in decision-making and why long-term relationships—not just transactional networks—are key to success.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 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 👀

As we look to the future of venture capital, it's clear that AI will play an increasingly pivotal role in shaping investment strategies and portfolio management.The GP Roundtable on Leveraging AI in Portfolio Monitoring & Management brought together leading data-driven VCs to explore AI's transformative potential in venture and more.Our guests:Alvaro Alvarez del Rio from Boost Capital Partners, renowned by LPs around the globe for their pioneering work with data and AIDr. Andre Retterath, partner at Earlybird Venture Capital and founder of the go-to newsletter and community for data-driven VC: Data-Driven VCJohn Frankel a long-time OG with ff Venture Capital who have realized the power of AISteven Greenberg, co-founder of TotemVC who's taking portfolio mgmt into the age of AIThey discuss how AI is being used in portfolio management, including uncovering trends and insights, data-driven decision-making, and portfolio value creation. The VCs share their experiences with AI tools and platforms, such as Totem VC and Early Bird's internal platform called Eagle Eye. They also discuss the importance of data quality and relevance in AI applications. The conversation highlights the potential of AI in improving efficiency, synthesizing information, and providing valuable insights for VCs.The conversation explores the use of AI and machine learning in venture capital, specifically in the areas of deal sourcing, due diligence, portfolio monitoring, and reporting. The panelists discuss the benefits and challenges of using AI tools, such as language models, in these processes.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 Lomax Ward, General Partner at Outsized Ventures, cover recent news and movements in the European tech landscape 💬Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀

Today, we are joined by Savitri Tan in a conversation with Maria Rotilu, Founding Partner at OpenseedVC.Maria Rotilu is the founder and general partner of OpenSeed VC, a £10M venture fund that invests in experienced operators transitioning into founders. With a unique thesis focused on zero-to-one founders, OpenSeed aims to be the first check for those building in commerce, health, and work across Europe and Africa. Maria’s journey has included scaling Uber in emerging markets, managing the Oxford Seed Fund during her MBA, and working at Octopus First Cheque before launching her fund.With a focus on early-stage investing, Maria leverages her operating background to provide empathy and actionable insights to founders navigating the challenging zero-to-one stage. OpenSeed’s strategy also involves a disciplined focus on the UK and four key African markets—Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and Egypt—ensuring deep expertise in these geographies.Together, they explore Maria’s approach to venture investing, her belief in the power of operator-led insights, and the challenges of building a solo GP fund in a volatile market. Maria also shares her thoughts on the importance of saying no with kindness and clarity, staying disciplined, and her vision for creating a long-lasting institution that partners with founders for decades to come.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 Alokik Advani, Managing Partner at Fidelity’s Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) arm, a strategic investment group focused on early-stage FinTech. Operating globally from London, Fidelity’s CVC targets opportunities in asset and wealth management, investing between $3–$10 million per deal and maintaining a disciplined approach to achieving both financial returns and strategic alignment.With over six years of experience leading Fidelity’s CVC strategy, Alokik has spearheaded investments in companies like Moneybox, Moonfare, and 73 Strings. He shares insights into the unique challenges and opportunities of combining venture capital expertise with the strategic goals of a global asset manager. The conversation explores Fidelity’s thematic investment framework, the evolving CVC landscape, and the pivotal role of AI and sustainability in shaping the future of financial services.

Welcome to a new special episode of the EUVC podcast! In this episode, we’re joined by Apostolos Apostolakis, Founding Partner at VentureFriends and one of the early backers of Blueground, a European unicorn in the prop-tech space. Blueground, founded in 2015, operates as a full-stack provider of fully furnished apartments for medium-and long-term stays, available in over 30 cities worldwide, including New York, London, Paris, Dubai, and Tokyo. Apostolos shares the journey from VentureFriends' initial investment to Blueground’s growth as a global leader, raising multiple rounds and overcoming challenges.Apostolos co-founded VentureFriends, a €170M fund currently deploying from its third fund and planning a fourth. Focused on pre-seed and seed investments, VentureFriends operates across Europe, the UK, and the Middle East, backing startups in B2B and B2C software, fintech, and marketplaces. Notable investments include Blueground, Huspy, Instashop, Carmoola, Plum, Flexcar, Embat and Harborlab.Together, we explore how Apostolos and VentureFriends supported Blueground's expansion from Greece to international markets like Dubai and the U.S., the lessons learned from navigating crises like COVID, and the importance of founder conviction and operational efficiency in scaling a business. Expect insights into prop-tech innovation, venture dynamics, and the art of balancing growth and profitability, along with candid reflections on the human side of venture investing.

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

In this episode of the EUVC podcast, we’re talking to Ben Saunders, a pioneer in one of the most demanding fields on Earth and an accomplished climate investor.Ben is arguably one of the most acclaimed explorers in the world today. He's pushed the boundaries of human endurance and traveled more than 4,500 miles (7,000km) on foot in the polar regions. Ben is only the third person in history to ski solo to the North and South Poles, and he holds the record for the longest-ever polar journey on foot.But Ben’s pursuits extend beyond the physical. He is now an active climate investor but recently decided to halt the fundraising process for his fund, Kintanna Ventures.Today's episode promises to be among our most candid and thought-provoking conversations. Ben will share his unique journey from extreme exploration to entrepreneurship and back again. We'll dive deep into the reasons behind his decision to stop the rise of Kintanna Ventures, offering an unparalleled look into the challenges of fund creation, today’s market dynamics, and the importance of grit—how to develop it and how expedition grit compares and differs to entrepreneurial grit.Get ready for an honest, transparent discussion about resilience, decision-making, and the true meaning of grit - all from someone who has faced nature's harshest challenges and the complexities of the business world.Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀

In today’s episode, Andreas welcomes Marius Istrate, Chairman of the Board at Tech Angels Romania, the country’s largest and most successful angel investment network. Over the past 11 years, Tech Angels has invested €45M in more than 300 startups, driving the growth of Romania’s tech scene and influencing the broader CEE region.With a focus on pre-seed and seed-stage ventures, Tech Angels operate across Romania (80%) and the wider CEE region (20%), supporting startups in Enterprise B2B, SaaS, DeepTech, and HealthTech.Notable investments include FlowX.ai, FintechOS, Druid.AI, Creatopy, Colossyan, and Pythagora.ai. Marius and Andreas dive into how Romania’s entrepreneurial ecosystem evolved, Tech Angels’ ambitious goal of creating 10 unicorns in 10 years, and the role of healthy boldness in unlocking founder potential.Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀

Today, Andreas talks with Cem Sertoglu, Managing Partner at Bek Ventures, a global venture capital firm that recently closed a $250M fund that was three times oversubscribed. Formerly known as Earlybird Digital East, Bek Ventures focuses on founders with their roots in Central and Eastern Europe, a region Cem calls "Dynamic Europe."With over a decade of experience, the Bek Ventures team has supported global successes like UiPath, Payhawk, and Peak, the first unicorns in Romania, Bulgaria, and Turkey, respectively, and has been recognized by HEC as the best-performing venture firm globally since 2010. Cem shares insights into the firm’s disciplined investment strategy, its belief that early-stage venture doesn't scale, and how its focus on technical talent gives it an edge in building global companies.Together, they explore Bek Ventures’ approach to VC fundraising, the challenges of funding beyond seed stages, and the lessons Cem has learned from two decades in venture capital.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 Andrew J. Scott, Founding Partner at 7percent 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 👀

Today, Andreas talks with Paula Wehmeyer, Partner at General Catalyst, a global investment powerhouse that partners with the world’s most ambitious entrepreneurs to drive resilience and applied AI.General Catalyst has $8B in new capital, with a track record spanning over 700 investments in transformative companies like Stripe, Airbnb, Anduril, and Helsing. Paula has an extensive background in investing across stages, from pre-seed to pre-IPO, and she has expertise in navigating the global venture landscape.Together, we’ll explore how General Catalyst approaches cross-sector investments and what it takes to build resilience in the ever-evolving tech ecosystem. We’ll also discuss how applied AI reshapes industries and the opportunities this presents for founders and investors.Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀

In today’s episode, Andreas and Jeppe sit down with Petr Mikovec, Managing Director and Chairman of InvenCapital, the corporate venture capital arm of CEZ Group. They discuss how InvenCapital operates with a unique dual-funding structure in collaboration with the European Investment Bank (EIB), blending corporate strategy with financial investment goals.InvenCapital, which manages €500M and focuses on climate tech and sustainability, provides insights into how corporate investors can balance strategic objectives with financial returns.Together, we explore:How InvenCapital’s structure supports strategic and financial goals through its partnership with CEZ Group and the European Investment Bank.The role of systemic coaching in venture investing and how it fosters stronger relationships with founders and teams.Challenges and advantages of corporate venture capital models compared to traditional VC firms.Strategies for effective board participation and aligning stakeholders for company growth.How InvenCapital manages partnerships and exits when working with competitors in the energy sector.Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀

In today’s episode, Andreas talks with Oliver Holle, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Speedinvest, and Ekaterina Almasque, General Partner at OpenOcean, to unpack the current landscape of AI investing.Speedinvest, a €500M generalist fund, and OpenOcean, a €150M fund specializing in AI and deep tech, offer contrasting yet complementary perspectives on how VCs are navigating the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence.Together, we explore:How SpeedInvest and OpenOcean approach AI investments and the strategic decisions behind focusing on specific layers of the AI stack.The rise of AI agents and how this next wave of AI innovation shapes investment strategies.Risk and opportunity in AI investing, particularly in foundational models versus applications and infrastructure.Key AI disruption sectors include healthcare, enterprise solutions, and content creation.Why VCs need to rethink traditional investment models when approaching AI startups.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 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 the European VC Podcast, we have a powerful conversation with Rupda, a trauma therapist and expert in somatic healing, to explore the profound impact of self-awareness, connection, and body-based healing on personal and professional lives.If you’re a founder, investor, or someone striving for balance, this episode offers transformative insights into navigating stress, building meaningful relationships, and reconnecting with yourself.Join the next Deep Work Retreat from April 1 to 6 in beautiful Italy. To learn more about it, go here, and to request an invitation, contact Andreas at [email protected] to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀

In this episode of the EU CVC podcast, Andreas and Jeppe, our in-house CVC expert talks with Mike Smeed, Managing Director at InMotion Ventures, the corporate venture capital arm of JLR (Jaguar Land Rover).InMotion Ventures is one of the most active corporate investors in the UK, with a global presence from the UK, Bay Area, and Tel Aviv. The team focuses on Seed to Series A investments, with typical cheque sizes ranging from $250K to $2M, and has the flexibility to participate in Series B rounds when there’s strong strategic alignment with JLR.Mike and his team back exceptional startups in climate, industrial, and enterprise technologies. Today, we’ll explore how InMotion Ventures leverages venture investing to accelerate innovation, the unique opportunities within their focus geographies — UK/Western Europe, North America, and Israel — and the role of corporate venture capital in driving impactful solutions.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 Lomax Ward, General Partner at Outsized Ventures, cover recent news and movements in the European tech landscape 💬Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀

For today’s episode, Andreas is joined by Hampus Jakobsson, General Partner at Pale Blue Dot, Michael Smith, General Partner at Regeneration VC, and Tobias Seikel from Planet A to discuss the future of climate tech in the wake of Trump’s reelection. Together, they analyze how shifting narratives and geopolitical dynamics will impact the climate agenda and the broader venture ecosystem.Together, they analyze how shifting narratives and geopolitical dynamics will impact the climate agenda and the broader venture ecosystem.The conversation covers:📌 Adapting to uncertainty: How portfolio companies are navigating mistrust and unpredictability while focusing on solving real business problems.📌 Lessons from China: Insights into China’s strategic focus on solar, EVs, and battery production, and how Europe can adopt similar multi-decade planning while fostering cross-border unity.📌 The role of big bets: Reflecting on the fallout of Lilium and Northvolt, the group emphasizes the importance of learning from failures and continuing to back transformative projects in Europe.📌 Stimulating growth: What an ideal EU stimulus plan could look like, from collaborative cross-border energy grids to dual-use strategies between defense and green tech.Go to eu.vc to read the core take-aways.

In this episode of the EUVC podcast, Dan Taylor, former journalist and Director of Content at CEW Communications is joined byItxaso del Palacio, General Partner at Notion CapitalNico Goulet, Founding Partner at Adara VenturesStefan Mores, Managing Partner at Indico Capital Partners.Together, they explore the dynamics of the Iberian startup and VC ecosystem, highlighting the region's strengths, challenges, and future potential.The conversation dives into what makes Iberia an attractive hub for tech talent and investment, the unique advantages of Portugal and Spain, and the critical role of local and global markets in shaping the success of startups.Go to eu.vc to read the core take-aways.

Welcome to a new episode of the EUVC podcast, where we’ll cover recent news and movements in the European tech landscape with Dan Bowyer and Mads Jensen from SuperSeed.Go to eu.vc to read the core take-aways.

In today’s episode, Andreas talks with Nico Schoenenberger, part of the Investment Team at 10x Founders, a Munich-based fund with €160M AUM in Fund I. 10x Founders focuses on early-stage investments (Pre-Seed/Seed) across Europe and the US, with a portfolio spanning sectors like B2B SaaS and Fintech. Notable investments include Ixana, magic, Ivy, Fernride, and cylib.Nico dives into the dynamics of entrepreneurial communities that form funds, sharing insights on decision-making for entrepreneurs, the strategic use of follow-on reserves, and the advantages of round pre-emption. Drawing from his experience, Nico provides actionable advice for founders navigating early-stage funding and growth.Together, we explore:The story behind 10x Founders and its entrepreneurial community-driven approach.Entrepreneurial decision-making and what it takes to succeed at the early stage.How to structure follow-on reserves and why round pre-emption matters.Lessons from Nico’s journey and the success stories from 10x Founders’ portfolio.

In today’s episode, Andreas talks with Christian Meermann, Founding Partner at Cherry Ventures and a Forbes Midas Lister. ith a €320M fund size and €1B in AUM, Cherry Ventures has made its mark across Europe by backing companies like Flixbus, Auto1, Flaschenpost, Finimize, and Ninetailed. Headquartered in Germany, the fund focuses on early-stage investments (Pre/Seed/Seed+) across both B2B software and consumer verticals.Christian shares the secrets behind Cherry’s culture of excellence, navigating competition in venture capital, and how to underwrite new managers in today’s market. He also dives into the art of decision-making for follow-on rounds, discussing what to look for and how to support portfolio companies effectively.With deep entrepreneurial roots, including his role as CMO of Zalando—scaling it from small revenues to over €2 billion at IPO—Christian brings a wealth of operational experience, strategic insight, and passion for founders with global ambitions.Together, we explore:Cherry's founding journey and Christian’s entrepreneurial background.Building a culture of excellence while competing in a dynamic venture market.Underwriting new managers: What investors should look for in emerging talent.The decision-making process for follow-on investments and how Cherry approaches it.Lessons from Christian’s career and success stories, including one of Germany’s largest exits with Flaschenpost.

In today’s episode, Andreas talks with with Kaari Kink, Investment Manager at Superangel and Chair of EstVCA, and Margus Uudam, Partner at Karma Ventures and a long-time pioneer in venture capital, to uncover the secrets behind Estonia’s rise as one of Europe’s most dynamic startup ecosystems.Estonia, known for producing global champions like Skype, Bolt, and Wise, has become a model for entrepreneurial success thanks to forward-thinking policies, minimal bureaucracy, and a bold mindset. Kaari and Margus share their experiences, reflect on Estonia’s journey, and highlight the policies and initiatives that other European ecosystems can learn from.Together, we explore:The key policies, like Estonia’s progressive stock option framework, that attract and retain tech talent.The “Skype Effect” and how it transformed Estonia’s ecosystem.Europe’s challenges in harmonizing policies to compete globally with the U.S. and China.The role of cross-border collaboration and fund-of-funds in building a resilient VC landscape.Go to eu.vc to read the full show notes.

In this episode of the EUVC podcast, Andreas talks with Avid Larizadeh Duggan, Senior Managing Director (EMEA) at Teachers' Venture Growth (TVG), the venture arm of Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan (OTPP), headquartered in Toronto.TVG has €5.4B in assets under management, backing innovative companies like Canva, Databricks, DeepL, and SpaceX. Avid brings experience from her work leading investments for TVG, with a strong focus on scaling Series B+ technology companies globally.Together, we will explore the unique perspective OTPP brings as one of the world’s largest pension funds; we’ll. We will also dive into the challenges and opportunities of scaling global technology companies and the role of late-stage growth investing in driving the next wave of innovation.Go to eu.vc to read the core take-aways.Chapters:00:03 Meet Avid from Ontario Teachers Pension Plan 02:57 Ontario Teachers Pension Plan's Global Investment Strategy 07:55 Avid's Journey to Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan 12:20 The Role of Teachers in the Investment Ecosystem12:58 Advantages of Being Part of a Pension Plan15:58 Leveraging Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan Network19:30 Focus on Growth Stage Investing21:57 Challenges and Opportunities in the European Growth Stage 28:32 Challenges of Scaling in Europe29:53 Talent Development Over Time31:58 Ecosystem Strength and Growth Stage Investment35:05 Manufacturing and Industry 4.036:00 Investing in Hardware and Software36:50 Thematic Investing and Industry 4.041:01 Navigating Hardware and Deep Tech Investments46:58 Advice for Founders and Investor Relationships52:36 Equity vs. Debt Financing at Growth Stage

In this episode of the EUVC podcast, Andreas is joined by Mike Reiner, General Partner at 432 Legacy, Fred Destin from Stride, and Rupda, a coach specializing in deep work retreats. The conversation explores the role of inner work in venture capital, highlighting its potential to improve founder-investor relationships, reduce burnout, and foster personal growth.Mike shares how 432 Legacy integrates coaching and self-development into its seed-stage investment strategy. Fred discusses his focus on enhancing trust and presence in boardrooms, and Rupda explains the transformative power of group retreats for addressing stress and building resilience.Go to eu.vc to read the core take-aways.Chapters:02:53 Meet the Guests: Mike, Fred, and Rupda03:58 Mike Reiner on 432 Legacy and Deep Work04:36 Fred Destin on VC-Founder Relationships07:46 Rupda's Unique Journey and Spiritual Background12:06 The Importance of Inner Work for Founders15:37 Balancing High Achievement and Personal Growth16:43 The Role of Trauma and Obsession in Success24:24 The Benefits of Deep Work for Leaders34:29 Fred's Personal Journey and Reflections40:56 Finding Inner Motivation41:30 Questioning Life's Path 43:17 The Power of Connection44:41 Men and Vulnerability46:20 The Collective Experience49:40 Coaching vs. Mentoring56:03 The Essence of Presence57:46 The Importance of the Body01:07:07 The Power of Retreats01:18:41 Upcoming Retreat Details

Welcome to a special episode of the EUVC podcast! This time, we’re experimenting with a new format where we bring together a founder and two of their key investors to uncover the dynamics behind building and scaling a venture-backed company.In this episode, we’re joined by Stanislav Poslavsky, CEO and Co-Founder of MiLaboratories, a US-based biotech company founded in 2021. Focused on providing innovative solutions for genomic research, MiLaboratories operates on a B2B revenue model, catering to bioinformaticians and biologists in academic and pharmaceutical settings across the US, EU, and UK.Joachim Laqueur, Founding Partner at Acrobator Ventures, a seed-stage investment firm with €28M in assets under management. Based in the Netherlands, Joachim specializes in backing global startups with a focus on Europe and the US, targeting B2B software and software-enabled hardware.Miguel Arias, General Partner at KFund, €225M early growth fund, with €650M in assets under management. Based in Spain, Miguel focuses on Series A and B investments across Southern Europe and Latin America, targeting enabling technologies such as AI, IoT, and digital infrastructure.Together, we explore how MiLaboratories secured its place in their portfolios, the process of building conviction across investment stages, and the unique challenges and opportunities of funding a biotech company in today’s landscape. Expect deep dives into deal-making dynamics, the art of company building, and even a few lighthearted moments that reveal the human side of venture capital.Go to eu.vc to read the core take-aways.Chapters:01:50 Journey: Founding MiLaboratories02:47 Joachim's Perspective: Investing in MiLaboratories04:05 The Early Fundraising Challenges05:30 The Role of COVID in Fundraising 07:45 Miguel's Introduction and Perspective10:08 Series A Fundraising Experience15:24 Lessons Learned in Fundraising19:46 Understanding MiLaboratories' Impact33:02 The Duality of Business Strategy33:13 Building a Sustainable Business34:23 The Power of Open Source35:48 Conviction in Venture Capital38:03 Choosing the Right Investors42:04 The Art of Pricing45:57 The CEO's Many Hats49:12 Understanding Platforma and MeXR53:35 Challenges and Lessons Learned57:47 The Future of MiLaboratories

In this episode of the EUVC podcast, Andreas sits down with Michael McGraw, Principal at Inovia Capital, a €415M growth equity fund headquartered in Canada but making waves in Europe.Inovia has €2.3B in assets under management and a track record of backing companies like Cohere, Lightspeed, Neo4j, and Wealthsimple. Mike brings a unique perspective shaped by his journey from LP at CDPQ—one of the world’s largest pension funds—to leading growth-stage investments at Inovia. Together, we’ll dive deep into the evolving role of European LPs, exploring why embracing a higher risk appetite could yield outsized returns and drive systemic innovation.We’ll also discuss Inovia’s strategy for scaling Series B to pre-IPO companies across North America and Europe, shedding light on key challenges and opportunities in the software space. Whether you’re an LP curious about market dynamics or a founder navigating growth-stage fundraising, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.Go to eu.vc to read the core take-aways.Chapters:01:00 Meet Michael McGraw from Inovia01:59 Inovia's Strategy and Focus02:23 Inovia's European Expansion03:22 Success Stories and Notable Investments04:05 The Role of CDPQ and Mike's Experience04:55 Canadian vs. European VC Ecosystems07:22 CDPQ's Investment Strategy11:42 Challenges for European LPs16:49 Fundraising in Europe: Insights and Observations27:27 Firepower and Fund Allocation28:05 Late Stage Market in Europe28:28 Investment Strategies and Risk Appetite29:49 Challenges in European Venture Growth Capital 31:45 Government's Role in Venture Capital32:27 Canadian Venture Capital Action Plan34:09 Fund of Funds in Europe37:45 Mike McGrath's Background41:41 Lessons Learned in Venture Capital48:06 Fundraising Tips for VCs

Welcome to a new episode of the EUVC podcast, where our good friends Dan Bowyer and Mads Jensen from SuperSeed, discuss with Lomax Ward, General Partner at Outsized Ventures, to cover recent news and movements in the European tech landscape 💬Go to eu.vc to read the core take-aways.Chapters:00:47 Personal Story: Full Body Scan Experience01:58 Health Tech Renaissance02:47 Preventative Health Scanning Debate04:59 Lomax's Health Journey08:47 Investment in Health Tech11:58 ChatGPT's 2nd Birthday16:22 Impact of LLMs on Business18:03 Future of AI and Productivity19:33 Future of Large Language Models19:50 VC Investments and Market Speculations21:40 Northvolt's Downfall23:03 Challenges in the European Market 23:47 Lessons from Tesla's Survival27:31 Recursion and Accenture Merger 31:37 Psychedelics in Mental Health35:47 Impact of Psychedelics on Founders37:35 Cradle Bio's Success38:22 Closing Thoughts and Optimism

In this episode of the EUVC podcast, Andreas sits down with Mike Reiner and Joachim Laqueur, General Partners at 432 Legacy, the successor to Acrobator Ventures.Mike and Joachim are investors with deep expertise in scaling B2B software and software-enabled hardware startups across Europe and the US. With a fund size of around €50M and €28M in assets under management, 432 Legacy is focused on seed-stage investments but supports founders up to Series A, fostering innovation on a global scale.In this episode, we’ll explore the vision behind 432 Legacy, including how their journey with Acrobator laid the groundwork for the fund’s mission. We’ll discuss their approach to identifying high-impact startups and the strategies they’ve employed to achieve standout successes like Lemonaid Health, Vital Fields, and Ready Player Me, among others.Go to eu.vc to read the core take-aways.Chapters:01:34 Introducing 432 Legacy01:55 Investment Focus and Notable Investments04:20 Personal Development Journey06:25 The Importance of Mindfulness and Coaching07:46 Challenges and Breakthroughs10:19 Incorporating Personal Development in Business15:56 Retreats and Deep Connections17:17 Skepticism and the Power of Vulnerability26:03 Data and AI in Venture Capital29:17 Challenges in Building Comprehensive Systems29:53 Serendipity in Venture Capital30:28 Early Experiments with AI in VC31:15 Discovering the WR Hambrecht System32:12 Meeting Thomas and Building Relationships34:07 Quantics: A Hybrid Approach34:55 Evaluating Companies with Quantics44:21 Future of 432 Legacy48:47 The Meaning Behind 432 Legacy52:47 Excitement for 2025 and Beyond

In this episode of the EUVC podcast, Andreas talks with Robin Haak, the solo GP behind Robin Capital, and Jerome Ternynck, founder of SmartRecruiters and a new initiative called Rypples.Together, we explore the evolution of recruiting, why "you are who you hire," and how AI is reshaping talent acquisition. Jerome brings insights from decades in HR tech, while Robin adds the investor’s perspective on navigating and succeeding in competitive markets.We’ll dig into Jerome’s journey with SmartRecruiters and the problem-solving mindset that’s driven his work for the past 30 years. We'll also uncover Rypples—his new mission to combine sustainable impact and financial return by investing in ocean-positive startups—and why sustainability is the next big business frontier.Go to eu.vc to read the core take-aways.Chapters:02:10 Jerome's Journey and Smart Recruiters03:39 Core Expertise: HR and Hiring Success03:45 Scaling a B2B SaaS Company03:57 The Founder Perspective on Raising Money04:06 Jerome's New Mission: Rypples15:54 The Evolution of Recruiting and AI16:34 Metrics for Hiring Success26:31 Purpose-Driven Business and Reverse Recruiting32:23 Reflecting on Past Mistakes32:52 Challenges of Scaling a SaaS Company34:25 Optimizing Sales and Marketing35:23 Balancing Growth and Retention38:50 Navigating VC Relationships41:17 The Role of the CEO in Scaling46:13 Fundraising Strategies and FOMO55:13 Building a Sustainable Business55:40 Introducing Rypples: An Ocean Investment Firm01:02:17 Final Thoughts and Farewell

In this episode of the EUVC podcast, Andreas talks with Benoit Vandevivere, CEO of Consentio and a driving force behind the eu/acc movement.Benoit is an advocate for innovation and technology in Europe, frequently speaking on the global stage for tech founders, policymakers, and institutions such as the NYSE and the European Commission. Together, we’ll dive into the origins and mission of the eu/acc movement—what it is, why it matters, and how it’s rallying founders and policymakers to create a unified European startup ecosystem. We’ll explore the root challenges facing Europe, from market fragmentation to scaling barriers, and the actionable solutions that the EU Accelerationism movement proposes to accelerate progress.We’ll also uncover the latest on key initiatives like the “10-second investment process” and the EU Inc movement, both designed to simplify and strengthen Europe’s innovation landscape. If you’re passionate about driving change and empowering European founders, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.Go to eu.vc to read the core take-aways.Chapters:00:02 Meet Benoit from the EU Act Movement00:05 Overview of the EU Act Movement00:30 How to Get Involved with EU Act00:46 The Growing Support for EU Act02:40 Introduction to the Podcast Episode03:56 Benoit's Background and Journey05:05 Early Career and Entrepreneurial Ventures07:28 Challenges and Opportunities in Europe09:09 Policy and Regulation Insights10:33 The Importance of Speaking Up13:39 AI and Technological Advancements15:10 The Role of European Talent18:31 The EU Act Movement's Philosophy20:04 Key Figures and Contributors26:20 The 10 Second Investment Process28:55 Challenges with Current Regulations31:37 The Need for Policy Change39:50 Call to Action for Entrepreneurs44:29 Final Thoughts and Farewell

In this episode of the EUVC podcast, Andreas talks with Alberto Chalon, founding GP of Giano Capital and an expert with a decade of experience in venture secondaries.Andreas and Alberto dive deep into the sell-side of venture secondaries, exploring the fundamentals that drive the market, the motivations of key players, and the nuances of preparing for a sale. Alberto shares his sophisticated approach to buyer processes, using a quantitative scorecard, and provides a practical guide for sellers navigating valuation, pricing, and legal challenges. Their conversation also addresses the current dynamics and trends shaping the secondaries market, offering a comprehensive look at what it takes to succeed.At Giano Capital, Alberto specializes in secondaries, drawing on his extensive experience to drive value for both buyers and sellers. This episode is packed with real-world insights and practical examples, making it an essential listen for anyone looking to understand or engage in the world of venture secondaries.Go to eu.vc to read the core take-aways.Chapters:00:33 Gianno Capital's Focus and Mission01:13 Current Transactions and Future Prospects01:36 The Rise of Secondaries02:04 Understanding the Secondary Market02:33 Key Players and Stakeholders02:49 Market Evolution and Opportunities05:20 Differences Between US and European Markets06:32 Types of Sellers in the Secondary Market10:28 Role of Intermediaries in Secondary Transactions13:34 The Buyer Process and Giano Capital's Framework15:20 Quantitative Analysis and Scorecard Approach20:47 Qualitative Analysis and Reference Checks22:12 Valuation and Pricing Strategies25:37 Legal and Financial Due Diligence28:50 Closing the Deal 31:29 Preparation for a Sale from a Fund36:15 Valuation Preparation for Assets38:02 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

In this episode of the EUVC podcast, Andreas talks with Sandeep Bakshi, Head of European Investments at Prosus Ventures.Andreas and Sandeep discuss the evolving dynamics of early-stage investing across Europe and beyond, sharing insights into how Prosus Ventures identifies opportunities in a global landscape. Sandeep offers his perspective on navigating the European VC scene, reflecting on the unique challenges and opportunities facing founders today. The conversation also covers the role of strategic capital in scaling startups, with a focus on the sectors and trends shaping the next decade.At Prosus Ventures, Sandeep oversees a diverse portfolio targeting early-stage companies around the world. With notable investments such as Delivery Hero, iFood, OLX, Bilt Rewards, Corti, Superside, Avant Arte, and Oxford Ionics, Prosus Ventures continues to drive innovation by backing transformative startups across various sectors and geographies.Go to eu.vc to read the core take-aways.Chapters:02:56 Understanding Prosus Ventures04:03 Investment Strategies and Market Cap07:29 Focus on AI for Marketplaces14:22 Operational Efficiencies in Marketplaces18:04 Generative AI in Creative Services23:20 AI in Search and Discovery24:37 Challenges in Deep Tech Talent25:22 The Axis of Talent26:37 Europe vs. Other Regions in AI Marketplaces28:02 Innovations in India and Southeast Asia29:55 Social Commerce and Conversational Tools31:23 AI Tools for Marketplaces32:50 AI Reshaping Shopping Habits36:07 The Role of Agents in AI38:08 Investment Opportunities in Europe's AI Marketplaces43:29 Sandeep's Personal Journey and Insights45:32 Controversial Beliefs and Market Trends

Hello and welcome back to 'At The Cap Table”, a podcast series here at EUVC, where we explore the journeys and insights of some of the most influential leaders in venture capital. Today, we’re thrilled to have Evgenia Plotnikova, General Partner at London HQ’d Dawn Capital. From her start in investment banking during the financial crisis to her role now in VC, she talks about the challenges, successes, and what it takes to thrive in an ever-evolving industry. We dive into her work at Dawn, what it means to be a B2B software specialist, and her thoughts on navigating today's exciting AI landscape. Let's get into it!Go to eu.vc to read the core take-aways.Chapters:00:14 Guest Introduction: Evgenia Plotnikova00:20 Evgenia's Early Career in Investment Banking00:30 Transition to Venture Capital00:49 Invitation to Venture Escape Event01:24 Welcome to the Interview01:35 Evgenia's Journey to Dawn Capital02:01 Early Career Challenges and Insights03:19 Private Equity and the Shift to Venture Capital04:59 Joining Dawn Capital05:51 Dawn Capital's Focus and Specialization08:57 The Importance of Mentorship09:57 Team and Culture at Dawn Capital13:51 Challenges and Resilience in Venture Capital15:20 The Exit Environment in Venture Capital20:49 AI and the Future of Venture Capital22:34 Final Thoughts and Reflections22:47 Alternative Career Paths 24:06 Conclusion of the Interview00:41 Closing Invitation to Venture Escape Event

In this episode of the EUVC podcast, Andreas sits down with Jan Lynn-Matern, Founder and General Partner at Emerge, a global pre-seed fund backed by over 100 leading operators in the future of work and learning. Jan shares Emerge’s mission to democratize access to opportunity for early-stage founders, providing not just capital but deep expertise and a community of seasoned professionals.Together, Andreas and Jan dive into how AI is transforming work and education. They discuss Emerge’s investment philosophy and focus on impact, the importance of nurturing curiosity from a young age, and Jan's insights on the European market and its dynamics. Jan sheds light on the evolving landscape of education, the challenges and opportunities posed by generative AI, and how these shifts are redefining job markets. The conversation explores the critical need for adaptability and upskilling within organizations to keep up with technological change and how AI could become a powerful tool for enhancing learning and career development.This episode offers a nuanced look at Jan’s journey, Emerge’s investment approach, and the unique role AI plays in reshaping the future of work, learning, and access to opportunity.Go to eu.vc to read the core take-aways.Chapters:00:02 Meet Jan from Emerge00:25 Emerge's Mission and Impact01:48 Personal Stories and Inspirations02:23 The Role of AI in Learning and Work04:16 Founding Journey of Emerge07:31 Investment Philosophy and Strategies20:01 The European Opportunity21:36 Technological and Societal Convergences25:43 Investment Themes: Learn, Navigate, Work38:51 Consumer Learning and AI in Education39:49 Challenges in Formal Education Systems40:50 The Decline of Traditional Universities42:30 AI-Powered Learning Support for Students44:50 Innovative Education Models 46:09 Personal Experiences with Education Systems49:19 Navigating Career Choices with AI56:23 AI in Recruitment and Career Development01:01:11 Upskilling and AI Adoption in Enterprises01:07:50 Future of Education and Final Thoughts

Welcome to a new episode of the EUVC podcast, where we’ll cover recent news and movements in the European tech landscape with Dan Bowyer and Mads Jensen from SuperSeed.Go to eu.vc to read the core take-aways.Chapters:00:00 Introduction: What's Happening This Week? 00:59 Election Drama and Trump Headlines01:26 The Most Expensive ElectionEver 02:03 Swing States and Predictions03:05 Potential Civil Unrest03:38 Trump's Policy Implications05:20 The CHIPS Act Debate09:20 European Chips Act11:47 UK's Semiconductor Strategy13:20 Government Investment and Planning18:16 Berkshire Hathaway's Cash Reserves18:59 Warren Buffett's Investment Strategy21:46 ChatGPT vs. Google Search23:41 AI Boom and Market Cap Gains24:00 Europe's Role in Semiconductors25:04 Startup Founder Mental Health26:15 VC's Role in Founder Support

In this episode of the EUVC podcast, Andreas is joined by Robin Haak, the solo GP behind Robin Capital, to share his unique journey through venture capital and entrepreneurship.Robin opens up about his extraordinary path, from building a coffee shop in Bhutan to fighting Muay Thai in Thailand, and how these experiences shaped his investing philosophy. Andreas and Robin discuss the realities of being a solo GP in Europe, the challenges of fundraising, and the importance of community-driven LP relationships. Robin shares why he chose the solo GP route after co-built Revaia, a €250 million growth fund, and why staying small and boutique matters to him.This episode goes beyond the typical investment talk. It dives deep into what drives Robin, the principles behind his investments, and the personal journey that shaped him into the investor he is today. Robin’s story is one of resilience, growth, and a deep desire to serve founders in ways that go beyond just financial backing.Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀Chapters:02:55 Robin Capital: The Basics03:59 Investment Strategy and Progress05:54 Challenges of Fundraising09:14 Personal Journey and Philosophy13:02 Spirituality and Life Lessons16:54 The Importance of Community17:46 Long-Term Vision and Acceptance20:07 Spiritual Exploration and Insights25:23 Conclusion and Newsletter Shoutout26:59 The Journey's End: Funding Status27:17 Finding Passion in Marketing27:45 The Love for Human Stories28:34 Exploring Bhutan: A Personal Journey30:36 Meeting the Royal Family32:13 Building a Coffee Shop in Bhutan32:47 Impact of COVID-1933:10 Transition Back to Travel Business34:09 The Role of Operators in VC44:57 The Importance of Serving Founders

In the ever-evolving landscape of business communication, platforms like WhatsApp are no longer just messaging apps but have transformed into powerful platforms enabling businesses to connect with their customers in groundbreaking ways.The latest episode of Startups in Focus features Carlos Espinal and Felix Martinez from Seedcamp, dive deep into this topic with Tarek Khalil and Mohamed Elbadwihi, co-founders of Rasayel, exploring how they are leveraging WhatsApp to redefine business communication.Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀Chapters:00:35 Founders' Backgrounds and Journey02:42 Lessons Learned from Previous Startups04:59 The Birth of Rasael07:35 Understanding Rasael's Product 10:08 WhatsApp as a Business Platform12:59 Platform Risks and Meta's Incentives16:00 Global Adoption of WhatsApp18:37 WhatsApp's Role in Business Functions20:52 Navigating Multiple Messaging Platforms23:25 Global Customer Insights23:41 The Dominance of WhatsApp24:12 Trust and Confidentiality25:12 WhatsApp's Strategic Development26:42 Regional Messaging Preferences27:10 Navigating Multiple Channels31:07 WhatsApp Business Platform32:41 Compliance and Data Management37:01 Future of WhatsApp Integrations44:28 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode of the EUVC podcast, Andreas discusses with Mikael Johnsson, co-founder and General Partner of Oxx.Andreas and Mikael discuss the key strategies and insights that have shaped Oxx as a leading player in the European B2B SaaS investment landscape. Mikael shares his extensive 24-year journey in venture capital, highlighting the evolution of his investment philosophy and the experiences that have driven Oxx’s unique approach to backing scale-up stage companies.Oxx’s second fund, totaling $190M, underscores the firm’s commitment to supporting B2B SaaS innovators across Europe and Israel. With a team of six in Stockholm and nine in London, Oxx maintains a pan-European reach, enabling it to stay closely connected to the pulse of regional tech ecosystems. The firm’s notable investments, including Funnel, Gravitee, and SOCRadar, exemplify Oxx’s focus on high-potential SaaS businesses with the ambition and capability to scale internationally.Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀Chapters:02:35 Meet Michael Johnson of Oxx03:04 Michael's Journey into Venture Capital04:35 The Intellectual Curiosity of Venture Capital05:20 Building and Growing Companies06:11 Challenges and Stubbornness in Venture07:31 Pivotal Moments and Lessons Learned09:47 Oxx's Investment Strategy13:49 The Importance of Product-Market Fit19:07 The State of Early Stage and Growth Stage VC in Europe26:00 Challenges in Scaling Venture Firms26:44 Optimism in European Venture Ecosystem 27:30 Importance of Positioning for Startups28:43 Building a Scalable Company29:49 Common Mistakes by Founders30:59 Evaluating Companies for Investment32:11 The Role of Hustle and Strategy36:29 Issues in the Venture Capital Industry49:12 Final Thoughts and Learnings:

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.Carmen is leading the charge at Cocoa Ventures, a €15M fund headquartered in the UK and focused on backing pre-seed and seed-stage startups across Europe. Cocoa Ventures invests across sectors, emphasizing Carmen’s vision of supporting bold founders in their first institutional round. Notable investments include Speckle, Eventstore, FDM, Tilebox, Fractile from Cocoa I, and hopin, SideQuest, Hived, pre-Cocoa.At Integra Global Advisors, a venture fund with €700M in assets under management, Evan targets early-stage and emerging managers across the US, LatAm, Europe, and Israel. Notable investments include Plural, Fly, and Retail (EU).Carmen, and Evan delve into the complexities of LP-GP relationships in venture capital, emphasizing the importance of separating personal and business dynamics. They also share insights on identifying strong GPs and the importance of maintaining integrity in the venture ecosystem and discuss the complexities of management fees and carry in the venture capital landscape, emphasizing the need for alignment of incentives between GPs and LPs.Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀Chapters:02:10 Diving into Personal and Business Relationships04:09 Managing LPGP Relationships 10:45 Gamesmanship in Business 15:07 Challenges of First Closings23:57 Re-ups and Signaling in Fundraising32:50 Handling Fund Breakups45:30 Succession Planning in VC46:33 Tough Decisions in Venture Capital48:00 Assessing Emerging Managers49:16 The Importance of Personal Brand in VC50:30 Carmen and Cocoa: A Perfect Synergy53:18 Management Fees and Carry: A Deep Dive55:52 Challenges with the 2% Management Fee Model01:03:05 The Debate on Carry Structures01:05:12 European vs. American Waterfalls01:11:39 Navigating LP-GP Relationships01:29:14 Closing Thoughts and Future Topics

Welcome to a new episode of the EUVC podcast, where we’ll cover recent news and movements in the European tech landscape with Dan Bowyer and Mads Jensen from SuperSeed.Go to eu.vc to read the core take-aways.Chapters:01:48 UK Autumn Budget Highlights02:29 Government's Investment Focus03:07 Challenges in Public Services04:14 Economic Reactions and Investor Sentiments04:56 Tax Changes and Their Implications05:59 Impact on Founders and Venture Capital06:57 Building a Company: Challenges and Rewards08:19 Capital Gains and Venture Capital Taxation09:15 London's Position in the Global Market15:45 ARM vs. NVIDIA: The AI Race16:47 ARM's Business Model and Market Position18:58 Qualcomm and ARM: Legal Battles20:15 SoftBank's Influence on ARM23:46 Volkswagen's Profit Warnings25:30 Boeing's Challenges and Industrial Issues28:15 The Role of AI in Startups30:15 Meta's AI Search Engine32:42 Football Regulation and Government Policies36:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Today, we’re thrilled to bring you one of the most anticipated episodes of the year with Anthony Danon about the official announcement of Rerail, his brand-new $20M angel fund. You ofc already know Anthony as one of the hosts of our SuperAngel podcast series and part of the powerful duo behind Cocoa together with Carmen 🍫.But now he’s built Rerail to pursue his powerful "FinTech is everything" thesis, placing $200-500K checks into early-stage companies that are transforming the future of finance and beyond. And my god are we excited for this.He focuses on pre-seed and seed investments in three core areas:Fintech: Backing companies driving innovation across all finance sub-verticals, tapping into the potential of AI and cutting-edge technologies.Fintech-powered sectors: From climate tech to healthcare and logistics, Anthony looks for startups leveraging fintech to disrupt and enhance industries far beyond traditional finance.Not-yet Fintech: Seeking companies that may not be fintech today but have the potential to use fintech as a strategic advantage, whether in their revenue model, customer base, or business approach.This is one of the biggest and most important episodes we’ve done because we think Anthony will be one of the European venture's true trailblazers.Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀Chapters:02:07 Welcoming Anthony Dannon02:33 Anthony's Journey to Founding Rerail03:06 Early Career and Transition to VC04:16 Building a Network in FinTech07:34 Launching Cocoa and the Angel Fund11:05 The FinTech is Everything Thesis20:29 Collaborative Investment Strategy23:28 Global Expansion and LP Support26:44 Proving the Strategy27:27 Degrees of Freedom in Fund Management27:51 Focus on Europe First28:19 Collaborative Fund Approach30:18 Ownership Sensitivity in Venture Capital33:24 Co-Investment Strategies37:50 Balancing Pre-Seed and Seed Investments39:24 Reserve Ratios and Fund Economics41:51 Handling High-Valuation Outliers47:10 Future Ambitions for Rerail

Welcome to a new episode of the EUVC podcast, where our good friends Dan Bowyer and Mads Jensen from SuperSeed cover recent news and movements in the European tech landscape 💬Go to eu.vc to read the core take-aways.Chapters:00:09 AI Perplexity's Massive Valuation01:41 Anthropic's New AI Model03:46 NHS and Patient Records06:06 Palantir's Role in NHS IT06:31 Revitalizing NHS with IT07:59 Stripe, HubSpot, and JP Morgan's Media Acquisitions08:37 The Creator Economy and Content Marketing09:56 Sustaining Economic Growth10:24 The Future of Economic Growth11:11 Investing in Business Technology11:23 The Myth of Limited Growth 11:37 Solving the Energy Problem12:17 The Positive Side of AI13:27 Europe's Digital Leap 13:55 Challenges in the Automotive Sector14:32 Unlocking Venture Capital in Europe15:00 Regulatory Hurdles and Growth18:35 The Future of the S&P 50023:07 Trump's Economic Policies

In this episode of the EUVC podcast, Andreas talks with Charlotte Palmer, Vice President at Integra Global Advisors.Andreas and Charlotte explore the evolving role of government LPs in Europe, discussing best practices and key considerations for fund managers. Charlotte shares her insights on why she joined Integra, reflecting on her new position as a global LP with a focus on European VC. The conversation also delves into fundraising for impact-driven VCs across Europe and the US, offering valuable perspectives for investors and founders alike.At Integra Global Advisors, Charlotte oversees a fund with €700M in assets under management, targeting early-stage and emerging managers across the US, LatAm, Europe, and Israel. Integra’s agnostic approach has led to notable investments, including Plural, Fly, and Retail (EU), as the firm continues to back innovative companies across various sectors.Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀Chapters:02:08 Welcoming Charlotte Palmer03:08 Charlotte's Background and Career Journey04:28 Transition to Integra Global Advisors05:25 The Role of Government LPs in Venture Capital06:55 Challenges and Reflections on Being an LP08:33 Integra's Investment Strategy and Focus12:02 Government Institutions in Venture Capital24:38 Improving Processes and Best Practices35:48 Navigating Restrictive Criteria in Fund Management36:23 Key Terms LPs and GPs Should Avoid37:05 Geographical Focus and Investment Strategy37:40 Challenges with Government Institutions39:42 The Importance of Sticking to Your Strategy45:52 The Role of Government Institutions in Market Distortion49:17 Transitioning to a Global LP: Insights and Experiences53:39 Balancing Global Expectations with Local Realities59:43 Advice for Aspiring LPs and Effective Hiring Practices01:04:10 Impact VC Funds: A Controversial Topic

In this episode of the EUVC podcast, Andreas talks with Massimiliano Magrini, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at United Ventures.Andreas and Massimiliano delve into the intricacies of scaling startups, the European venture ecosystem, and the challenges of attracting growth capital. They also touch on lessons from managing funds across different stages and sectors, and the unique dynamics of Italy’s growing role in venture capital.At United Ventures, Massimiliano oversees the firm’s third early-stage fund (UV3) of €150M and a later-stage fund (UVTG), managing approximately €500M in assets under management. Based in Italy, United Ventures targets Series A investments across Europe, with a focus on enabling technologies for sustainable digitization. Their portfolio spans enterprise software, deeptech, and fintech.Over the past decade, Massimiliano has backed notable startups including Moneyfarm, FaceIT, MusixMatch, Fiscozen, xFarm Technologies, and Exein, supporting founders from seed through early growth as they scale their companies into market leaders.Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀Chapters:00:03 Meet Massimiliano Magrini of United Ventures00:09 Today's Focus: Attracting Growth Capital 03:33 The Evolution of United Ventures05:12 Challenges in the European VC Landscape07:56 The Importance of Growth Capital10:05 Differences Between US and European Investors22:25 Regulatory Hurdles in Europe23:40 Europe's Call to Action 23:50 Excitement Over the Paper24:19 Investing in AI and Infrastructure24:59 Geopolitics and Investment Shifts26:47 European Ecosystem and Interconnected Centers27:58 US Perspectives on Europe33:01 Endurance Cycling and Vineyard Life 36:02 Lessons in Venture Capital39:35 Fundraising Challenges and Successes