European Venture Capitalists Bet Big on Green and Social Startups

A fresh wave of investment is sweeping across Europe, focusing on startups that prioritize both the planet and people. This shift is evident in the recent closure of a €100 million fund by Revent, a European venture capital firm based in Berlin. The fund, known as Fund II, is specifically earmarked for startups that tackle issues related to planetary and societal health. The firm, established in 2021 by Otto Birnbaum and Lauren Lentz, has a clear mission. They believe that ambitious entrepreneurs are increasingly interested in building companies that drive societal progress. This focus on both profit and purpose is not just a feel-good strategy; it's a smart business move. The idea is that companies addressing significant global challenges can become highly valuable. Revent has managed to attract a diverse group of limited partners (LPs) to back this new fund. These include major players like the Otto Group, Goldbeck, Wepa, Oetker, Beiersdorf, and Hymer, as well as several European tech founders. Even the European Investment Fund has increased its commitment to Revent's second fund. This support underscores the growing belief that investing in sustainability and social impact is not just ethical but also financially sound. Since its launch, Revent has already invested in 26 companies. These investments span various sectors, including climate tech, health tech, and economic empowerment. The firm has seen notable successes, with several of its portfolio companies attracting interest from top-tier general funds. This track record speaks to Revent's ability to identify and support startups that can drive meaningful change. Lentz emphasizes that Revent positions itself as a performance-focused fund. The goal is to create long-term value by investing in essential transitions. This approach has gained traction, especially in the current macroeconomic environment. Investors are increasingly recognizing the importance of supporting startups that address critical global challenges. The firm's LPs are notably long-term oriented. They are not deterred by short-term fluctuations or geopolitical tensions. Instead, they see this as an opportunity for Europe to assert its values and invest heavily in tech and innovation. This perspective is crucial as Europe navigates its role in a rapidly changing global landscape. Revent's team is spread across multiple cities, including Berlin, London, Paris, and now San Francisco. This global presence allows the firm to stay connected with the latest trends and opportunities in the startup world. It's a strategic move that positions Revent to continue making a significant impact in the years to come.