European venture capital funds invest in companies involved in developing promising new technologies in hopes of turning a big profit. Some venture capital firms may specialize in one industry, be it energy, pharmaceuticals or biotech; others dabble in many industries. European venture capital firms tend to invest close to home, but some have an international scope.
Both investors and entrepreneurs who seek funds will want look into a firm's history and culture. Investors especially may want to follow deals as they happen. You can find reliable, relevant information on venture capital firms and funds in Europe news and trends from a number of sources:
1. Venture capital firms and funds in Europe publish information about themselves to keep investors informed.
2. Trade groups that represent European venture funds are comprehensive sources of European market data.
3. Niche publications report on the activities of European venture capitalists and firms.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Read analysis of European venture capital firms
Whether you're an entrepreneur seeking funding or an investor looking for a good place to put your money, you should do your due diligence and research a European venture capital firm's portfolio. Most firms publish portfolio information on their websites. You should also check out independent analysis, to get a critical view of a firm's outlook.
I recommend: WilmerHale is an international corporate law firm that publishes a bi-annual analysis of European venture capital funds.
Truffle Capital publishes a newsletter; you can also find out where it's invested in the information, energy and life science industries.
Sofinnova Partners posts news on companies in its portfolio.
Get news about European venture capital from trade groups
Venture capital trade groups provide a comprehensive overview of the market's vital statistics. They also analyze the impact the changing regulatory climate. Because part of their mission is encouraging investment, they often publish guides to help investors navigate European venture capital firms.
I recommend: The
British Venture Capital Association publishes guides for both entrepreneurs and investors.
German Private Equity and Venture Capital Association publishes an annual overview of its market. The
European Private Equity & Venture Capital Association is an umbrella group for national associations. For a full list of national venture capital associations, see the
National Venture Capital Association.
Check out publications devoted to reporting on European venture funds
For unbiased analysis, it's crucial that you read sources not directly associated with the European venture capital industry. Venture capital news can provide analysis of how firms are faring in changing economic conditions, and point out bright spots. You can also sign up for constant news updates that alert you immediately when there's an important merger or bankruptcy that affects the European venture market.
I recommend: The
European Venture Capital Journal reports on Europe's leading funds and their portfolios, important private equity deals and M&A activity. It also has a section on regulations that affect venture capital firms in Europe.
EIN News has a feed for professionals who want to keep constant tabs on venture capital in Europe.
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