Intesa Sanpaolo

Intesa Sanpaolo, a leading Italian banking group, actively participates in the venture capital ecosystem primarily through its dedicated investment arm, Neva SGR. Established to foster innovation and support high-tech startups, Neva SGR operates as a corporate venture capital fund manager, strategically investing in companies with significant growth potential. This approach allows Intesa Sanpaolo to not only generate financial returns but also to gain insights into emerging technologies and business models that could complement its core banking services. Their investment mandate spans various stages, from early-stage seed rounds to more mature growth-stage companies, reflecting a comprehensive strategy to engage with the innovation landscape.

Neva SGR manages several funds, notably Neva First and Neva II. Neva First, launched in 2020, initially targeted €250 million to focus on seed to Series B investments, supporting nascent companies with disruptive technologies. Building on this success, Neva II was introduced in 2022, with a target of €300 million, specifically designed to back growth-stage companies that have already demonstrated market traction. These funds collectively enable Neva SGR to deploy substantial capital across a diverse portfolio, targeting sectors such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, fintech, life sciences, and the circular economy. Their investment thesis emphasizes scalable solutions and strong management teams, with a keen eye on both domestic Italian innovation and promising international ventures.

Beyond direct capital injection, Intesa Sanpaolo leverages its extensive network and resources to support its portfolio companies. The Intesa Sanpaolo Innovation Center plays a crucial role in scouting, accelerating, and connecting startups with the broader corporate and industrial ecosystem. This integrated approach provides startups with access to mentorship, strategic partnerships, and potential clients within the bank's vast client base. Intesa Sanpaolo's commitment to innovation is evident in its long-term view on investments, aiming to build lasting relationships with entrepreneurs and contribute to the development of future-proof industries. The group's venture capital activities underline its strategic imperative to remain at the forefront of technological advancements and market evolution.