Eindhoven-based LUMO Labs, a Dutch venture capital firm, has announced the launch of its new €100 million LUMO Rise Fund. This significant investment vehicle aims to support 30 to 35 impact-driven startups across Europe over the next four years, focusing on emerging digital technologies that contribute to a greener and stronger society.

Fund Details and Strategy

The LUMO Rise Fund builds on LUMO Labs' existing investment strategy, expanding its focus to include more regional diversification and increased capacity for follow-on financing. The fund will specifically target technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Virtual and Augmented Reality, Blockchain, and deep tech Artificial Intelligence. These technologies are pivotal for achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in areas such as Good Health and Well-being, Quality Education, Sustainable Cities and Communities, and the newly added Climate Action.

Andy Lürling, Founding Partner of LUMO Labs, commented on the importance of these technologies, stating, “Emerging digital technologies, such as deep tech AI, allow people to manage complexity with unprecedented speed and scale. This holds the key to structural solutions and sustainable alternatives to widespread degenerative habits and unsustainable systems.”

Geographical Expansion

While LUMO Labs has primarily been active in the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium, the LUMO Rise Fund signals a geographical expansion. The investment team is now actively seeking opportunities in Scandinavia, the Baltic States, Spain, and Portugal, with plans to add local experts to their team. Startups from the rest of Europe are also eligible for investment from the fund.

Investor Support and Commitments

The fund has already secured commitments from various sources, including financial institutions, family offices, high-net-worth individuals, and Dutch regional development agencies such as BOM, Oost NL, and NOM/IFG. Additional public and private parties are expected to join in the coming months.

LUMO Program

Beyond financial investment, selected startups will benefit from LUMO Labs' coaching program. Sven Bakkes, Founding Partner, highlighted the importance of this support: "We swear by the methodical and timely selection, active monitoring, and our proven LUMO Program. Built on four solid pillars related to leadership, product-market fit, storytelling, and follow-on investment, this active support program is tailored to each startup's individual needs."

New Leadership

With the launch of the LUMO Rise Fund, LUMO Labs has announced the addition of Dagmar van Ravenswaay Claasen and Sabine Schoorl as Senior Partners. Their expertise in climate action, sustainable cities, and communities will play a crucial role in shaping the fund's portfolio and impact strategies. Thomas Hannes, currently the investment director at LUMO Labs, also joins as a Partner.

The launch of the LUMO Rise Fund represents a significant step for LUMO Labs and the European startup ecosystem. With its focus on impact-driven technologies and expanded geographical reach, the fund is poised to play a crucial role in fostering innovation that addresses pressing global challenges while promoting sustainable development across Europe.