Axeleo Capital's Green Tech Fund: A New Dawn for Sustainable Innovation

November 10, 2024, 5:32 pm
Axeleo Capital
Axeleo Capital
PlatformDataFinTechITSaaSSoftwareManagementAnalyticsBusinessService
Location: France, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Lyon
Employees: 11-50
Founded date: 2017
In a world grappling with climate change, innovation is the lifeline. Axeleo Capital, a Paris-based venture capital firm, has thrown its hat into the ring with a bold move. The firm recently announced the first closing of its new Green Tech Industry I fund, securing €125 million. This fund is not just a financial endeavor; it’s a mission to reshape the industrial landscape of Europe.

The backing for this fund comes from three significant players: the Révolution Environnementale et Solidaire fund, Bpifrance, and the Fonds National de Venture Industriel (FNVI). These investors are not just funding a project; they are investing in a vision. A vision where green technologies flourish and industrial innovation thrives.

Founded in 2017, Axeleo Capital has grown its assets to nearly €300 million. The firm is now positioning itself as a key player in Europe’s venture capital scene. Its strategy revolves around thematic funds, focusing on specific sectors that promise high impact. The Green Tech Industry I fund is a prime example of this approach.

The challenge of financing innovative start-ups is real. Many face hurdles in securing the necessary resources to establish their first facilities. Axeleo aims to bridge this gap. The fund is classified as Article 9, meaning it is inherently impact-driven. It seeks to finance innovative and resilient green technologies that can withstand the test of time.

At the helm of this initiative are Guillaume Sarlat and Marc Lechantre. With over 20 years of experience in tech and greentech, they bring a wealth of knowledge to the table. Their backgrounds in investment banking and the automotive industry provide a solid foundation for understanding the complexities of industrial innovation.

Joining them is Sandra Dubos, the new Investment Director. With a degree in biochemistry and over 15 years in tech, her expertise in deep tech, chemistry, and healthcare adds depth to the team. Together, they form a powerhouse ready to tackle the challenges of the green tech sector.

The fund has set its sights on a final target of €250 million. It plans to make 15 to 20 investments across various sectors. These include energy, chemicals and materials, agriculture and food, and mobility. Each investment will range from €3 million to €10 million. This strategic allocation of funds aims to support the development of new renewable energies, biomaterials, and electric motors, among others.

One of the fund's first investments is in Sweetch Energy, a start-up specializing in osmotic energy. This innovative approach to renewable energy offers a controllable and permanent source of power. It’s a glimpse into the future Axeleo envisions—one where sustainable solutions are not just ideas but realities.

The founders of Axeleo Capital express their excitement about this new venture. They see it as a significant step in their journey. The fund aligns with their values and entrepreneurial spirit. It’s about more than just financial returns; it’s about fostering a new era of industrial innovation.

The support from their sponsors and investors is crucial. It reinforces their ambition to contribute to the emergence of tomorrow’s green industrial sectors in Europe. This collective effort is not just about funding; it’s about creating a sustainable future.

As the world shifts towards greener practices, the demand for innovative solutions will only grow. Axeleo Capital is poised to meet this demand head-on. By focusing on green technologies, they are not just investing in companies; they are investing in the planet’s future.

The Green Tech Industry I fund represents a beacon of hope. It signals a commitment to sustainability and innovation. In a time when the stakes are high, Axeleo’s initiative could be the catalyst for change.

Investors are increasingly looking for opportunities that align with their values. The rise of impact investing reflects this trend. Axeleo’s fund taps into this growing market, offering a chance to make a difference while achieving financial success.

The road ahead is filled with challenges. However, with a dedicated team and a clear vision, Axeleo Capital is ready to navigate the complexities of the green tech landscape. Their approach combines financial acumen with a deep understanding of industrial needs.

In conclusion, Axeleo Capital’s Green Tech Industry I fund is more than just a financial vehicle. It’s a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the future of industry in Europe. As they embark on this journey, the world will be watching. The success of this fund could set a precedent for how venture capital can drive positive change in the face of climate challenges. The dawn of a new era in green technology is here, and Axeleo is leading the charge.