#EQT #None #European Technology #Scaleup Fund

EQT Takes the Helm of Scaleup Europe Fund

In a significant move for European technology investment, EQT has been appointed as the preferred investment adviser and fund manager for the newly established Scaleup Europe Fund. Announced on May 18, 2026, this initiative marks the European Commission's effort to address the funding gap facing scaling technology companies across the continent. With a target size of EUR 5 billion, this fund aspires to foster growth and innovation in European tech, spanning various fields including AI, clean energy, biotechnology, and more.

The Scaleup Europe Fund is a strategic part of the EU’s Startup and Scaleup Strategy, aiming to elevate Europe’s position in the global technology ecosystem. EQT, renowned as Europe’s largest private markets investor with EUR 269 billion in assets under management, will contribute its capital and expertise to ensure the fund's success.

A New Era for European Innovation

The CEO of EQT, Per Franzén, expressed pride and a sense of responsibility in leading this fund, noting that while Europe excels at creating early-stage technology ventures, the challenge now lies in scaling those businesses into global contenders. The Scaleup Europe Fund represents a concerted effort to maintain European roots as these firms reach international markets.

Per Franzén stated, "For over a decade we have established our early-stage platform by launching successful Ventures and Growth strategies; this fund is the next milestone in our journey to help European startups achieve their fullest potential. We are eager to engage with the European tech ecosystem for shaping a brighter future."

Partnership for Growth

Integral to the fund’s strategy will be collaboration with various stakeholders, including investors, corporates, and policymakers. Ted Persson and Victor Englesson from EQT are slated to serve as Co-Heads of the advisory team for the fund. They emphasized that the Scaleup Europe Fund aims to be more than just a source of capital; it aspires to act as a catalyst for partnerships and synergies within the tech ecosystem.

Persson noted, "Realizing the Scaleup Europe Fund's full potential will require partnership across the ecosystem. We invite all stakeholders to join us in this transformative journey, fostering public-private collaboration and strengthening talent networks."

The fund strategically focuses on privately-owned European technology companies from Series B onward, leveraging EQT's advanced infrastructure, such as the AI-driven sourcing platform 'Motherbrain,' to enhance investment efficiency and ecosystem connections. Victor Englesson highlighted the commitment to empowering ambitious founders who aspire to build global leaders in strategic technology sectors, signaling an active investment approach aimed at elevating Europe's technological stature in the global landscape.

Supporting European Innovation

The Scaleup Europe Fund has garnered backing not just from EQT, but also from committed investors including the Export and Investment Fund of Denmark, Allianz, and Novo Holdings. It seeks to unite public and private capital to create a funding coalition that fosters innovation across Europe.

Ekaterina Zaharieva, Commissioner for Startups at the European Commission, remarked on the importance of this initiative for enhancing Europe’s competitiveness on the global stage. She stated, "The Scaleup Europe Fund stands as a bold step to advance European leadership in innovation by aligning our resources for meaningful impact."

The fund's structure emphasizes commercial terms, ensuring independence in decision-making based on commercial merit, and its hard cap will be determined post fundraising efforts. As EQT prepares for the formal launch, anticipation grows for the transformative impact this initiative could have on Europe’s vibrant technology landscape.

In conclusion, the establishment of the Scaleup Europe Fund under EQT's stewardship signifies a pivotal moment for Europe's technological future. By addressing the scaling challenges faced by innovative startups, this fund not only fosters public-private collaboration but also seeks to solidify Europe's place as a leader in future technological advancements, ensuring that its innovative spirit can thrive on the global stage.