Daphni Blue secures €260 million to back deep-tech founders
French venture capital firm Daphni Blue has closed a new €260 million fund aimed at transforming cutting-edge European research into globally competitive startups. The vehicle targets founders emerging from laboratories, research institutes and technical universities, with a focus on deep-tech and science-driven innovation.
The fund strengthens France’s position as a key hub for early-stage financing in sectors such as artificial intelligence, advanced materials, biotech, and climate technology. By connecting academic talent with entrepreneurial capital, Daphni Blue aims to help more research teams make the leap from the lab bench to scalable companies.
From lab coats to unicorns: a science-to-startup thesis
The new fund is designed for founders who often lack access to traditional venture capital networks but operate at the forefront of scientific discovery. Daphni Blue plans to invest from seed to early growth stages, providing both capital and hands-on support in areas such as commercialization strategy, IP protection, and international expansion.
France has invested heavily in research and innovation, yet many promising technologies remain underexploited commercially. By focusing on the translation of public and private research into market-ready products, Daphni Blue hopes to close this gap and help create the next generation of European tech champions.
Strengthening Europe’s deep-tech ecosystem
The €260 million fund adds to a growing pool of capital dedicated to deep-tech startups across Europe. Institutional investors, family offices and corporate backers are increasingly seeking exposure to long-term, high-impact innovation, even as broader tech markets remain volatile.
With this new capital, Daphni Blue is positioned to play a prominent role in scaling companies born from European laboratories, supporting founders who are tackling complex global challenges in health, energy, industry and the environment.