
Axeleo Capital
Description
Axeleo Capital is an early-stage French venture capital firm based in Lyon, primarily focused on B2B digital and deep tech startups. Established with a strong entrepreneurial ethos, the firm positions itself as more than just a capital provider, leveraging a large community of seasoned entrepreneurs to support its portfolio companies. This network offers strategic guidance, operational expertise, and market access, aiming to accelerate the growth and internationalization of its investments. Axeleo targets companies at the Seed and Series A stages, demonstrating a commitment to nurturing promising ventures from their nascent phases.
The firm's investment strategy is sector-specific, concentrating on high-growth B2B technology verticals. These include Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Cybersecurity, Fintech, Proptech, HR Tech, and the broader Future of Work landscape. Axeleo Capital manages two primary funds: Axeleo Capital I, launched in 2017 with a size of €30 million, and the more recent Axeleo Capital II, which closed in 2021 at €60 million. These funds enable Axeleo to deploy significant capital into its chosen markets, supporting a robust portfolio of innovative companies.
Axeleo Capital typically provides initial cheques ranging from €300,000 to €1.5 million, with the capacity for substantial follow-on investments of up to €5 million. This flexible investment approach allows the firm to support its portfolio companies through multiple funding rounds as they scale. With a portfolio exceeding 50 startups and more than 20 successful exits to date, Axeleo Capital has established a track record of identifying and scaling B2B tech leaders. Its hands-on approach and deep industry expertise make it a significant player in the European early-stage venture ecosystem, particularly for B2B technology companies seeking not only funding but also strategic operational support.
Investor Profile
Axeleo Capital has backed more than 92 startups, with 11 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 42 rounds, about 46% of its total and boasts 12 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Seed, Series A, Pre Seed rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in France, United Kingdom, Belgium.
- Strong thematic focus on Software, SaaS, Information Technology.
- Led 3 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $324K – $1.6M.
Stage Focus
- Seed (61%)
- Series A (24%)
- Pre Seed (9%)
- Series Unknown (4%)
- Non Equity Assistance (1%)
- Series B (1%)
Country Focus
- France (84%)
- United Kingdom (4%)
- Belgium (2%)
- Germany (2%)
- The Netherlands (1%)
- Sweden (1%)
- Austria (1%)
- Norway (1%)
- Romania (1%)
- Switzerland (1%)
Industry Focus
- Software
- Saas
- Information Technology
- Fintech
- Analytics
- Artificial Intelligence (Ai)
- Cyber Security
- Real Estate
- Financial Services
- Internet
Frequently Asked Questions
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