European Startup Growth Surge: Top Investors Revealed

The second annual Sifted 250 Leaderboard has identified Europe’s fastest-growing startups based on revenue growth, showcasing the investors who have played a crucial role in their success. The results were announced during the Sifted Summit, attended by founders and operators from high-growth companies. Notably, over 2,000 investors backed at least one of the companies featured on the leaderboard, with 128 investors supporting more than two.

According to the report, the top investor is Plug and Play, a US-based venture capital firm that has invested in or supported a total of 14 companies, including this year’s fastest-growing company, the car subscription service FINN. Following closely is Kima Ventures, based in Paris, which has improved its standing by four places since 2024. The European Innovation Council (EIC) ranks third, distinguishing itself as one of only eight public funding entities on the list.

Investors’ Impact on Startup Growth

Plug and Play’s success highlights the importance of venture capital in driving growth. The firm’s diverse portfolio contributes to its leading position, with an impressive average compound annual growth rate (CAGR) among its investments. The EIC, established in 2021, also showcases the role of public funding in supporting innovative startups.

The leaderboard reflects a dynamic landscape of investment types. Among the notable entries, Crowdcube stands out as the only crowdfunding platform to break into the top ten of most active investors. Additionally, HSBC Innovation Banking, formed in 2023 following the acquisition of Silicon Valley Bank, marks its presence as the youngest investor on the list.

Furthermore, Air Street Capital and Purple Ventures, both emerging venture capital firms, are recognized as the youngest backers in the competitive environment. The data also reveals that more than 50% of the most active investors originate from the UK and the US, with France, Germany, Spain, and Sweden following closely behind.

Key Takeaways from the 2024 Leaderboard

The Sifted 250 Leaderboard not only highlights the fastest-growing startups but also underscores the critical role of investors in fostering innovation across Europe. The rankings are determined by the number of companies backed, their average CAGR, and their overall ranking positions. This comprehensive view allows stakeholders to understand which investors are making significant impacts in the startup ecosystem.

As the European market continues to evolve, the insights from the Sifted report serve as a valuable resource for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors alike. By identifying the key players and the dynamics at play, the Leaderboard offers a snapshot of the growth and potential that characterizes Europe’s vibrant startup landscape.