
FMO
Description
FMO, the Dutch entrepreneurial development bank, is a prominent financial institution based in The Hague, Netherlands, dedicated to fostering sustainable private sector growth in developing countries and emerging markets. Established with a mandate to empower entrepreneurs, FMO's core mission revolves around building a better world by investing in businesses and projects that contribute to economic development, job creation, and climate action. The institution primarily focuses on three key sectors: financial institutions, energy, and agribusiness, food & water, recognizing their pivotal role in driving inclusive and sustainable growth.
FMO employs a diverse range of financing solutions tailored to the specific needs of its partners. These include long-term debt financing, such as project finance and corporate loans, direct equity investments where they typically take minority stakes, and investments in private equity and venture capital funds. Their strategic approach aims to address global challenges by supporting businesses that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on reducing inequality, creating decent work, and mitigating climate change. This comprehensive strategy allows FMO to support a broad spectrum of ventures, from large-scale infrastructure projects to innovative startups within their target sectors.
The scale of FMO's operations underscores its significant impact on global development finance. At the close of 2023, FMO's total committed portfolio stood at approximately €13.6 billion, demonstrating its substantial long-term engagement across various regions. In the same year, the institution committed €1.2 billion in new financing, highlighting its ongoing commitment to expanding its reach and supporting new initiatives. While FMO's investments are often substantial, reflecting the capital needs of large-scale development projects, their typical direct transaction sizes generally range from €5 million to €250 million. FMO frequently collaborates with other development finance institutions and commercial banks, leveraging partnerships to mobilize additional capital and maximize the developmental impact of its investments.
Investor Profile
FMO has backed more than 162 startups, with 15 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 82 rounds, about 51% of its total and boasts 21 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Debt Financing, Series Unknown, Post Ipo Debt rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in India, Kenya, The Netherlands.
- Strong thematic focus on Financial Services, FinTech, Finance.
- Led 5 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $5.4M – $270M.
Stage Focus
- Debt Financing (38%)
- Series Unknown (13%)
- Post Ipo Debt (10%)
- Series B (9%)
- Series A (8%)
- Grant (5%)
- Series D (4%)
- Series C (4%)
- Private Equity (4%)
- Convertible Note (2%)
Country Focus
- India (31%)
- Kenya (8%)
- The Netherlands (6%)
- Singapore (4%)
- Nigeria (4%)
- South Africa (4%)
- Argentina (4%)
- United States (4%)
- Egypt (3%)
- United Arab Emirates (3%)
Industry Focus
- Financial Services
- Fintech
- Finance
- Agriculture
- Energy
- Renewable Energy
- Solar
- Farming
- Banking
- Payments
Frequently Asked Questions
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