Balderton launches $1.3 billion fund to invest in European tech startups

Balderton Capital, a major European venture capital firm, today unveiled $1.3 billion in two separate early-stage and growth funds to support European founders through the various stages of their startups.

In an announcement on Monday, the London-based Balderton revealed it has launched a $615 million Early Stage Fund IX and a $685 million Growth Fund II. These funds will be used to back European entrepreneurs from the seed stage through to IPO, marking one of Europe’s largest funding initiatives for tech startups at both early and growth stages.

Balderton, originally founded in 2000 as Benchmark Capital Europe, became fully independent in 2007. The firm focuses on investing in early-stage tech and internet startups across Europe. It’s recognized as one of the top four venture capital firms based in London.

This new wave of funding arrives as Europe cements its position as a leader in AI innovation, with London and Paris emerging as key hubs. Balderton’s current portfolio includes companies like Dream Games, Wayve, and PhotoRoom, reflecting the firm’s continued commitment to investing in cutting-edge technology.

“We believe the best way to change the world is to build a business – and that many of these world-changing businesses will be built in Europe,” said Bernard Liautaud, managing partner at Balderton.

Bernard Liautaud, managing partner at Balderton, expressed the firm’s commitment to supporting European entrepreneurs, stating: “Our mission is straightforward: to be the go-to partner for founders building the next generation of technology companies in Europe. These new funds enable us to do just that.”

Since its inception over two decades ago, Balderton has backed over 275 tech startups across Europe, building a diverse portfolio that features global leaders like Revolut, Dream Games, GoCardless, Contentful, Aircall, Wayve, Writer, and PhotoRoom. The firm has seen numerous successful exits, including Darktrace, Depop, MySQL, Peakon, Recorded Future, Talend, and THG. Balderton’s investments cover a wide range of sectors, from AI and fintech to B2B SaaS, digital health, mobility, gaming, and marketplaces.

“With Balderton’s 65 team members across Europe, $1.3bn in new funds, and a strong portfolio of more than 125 companies, the firm is excited to continue its work of partnering with Europe’s top entrepreneurs as they build world-changing companies,” the company said.

Balderton Team