
Swen Capital Partners
Description
Swen Capital Partners is a prominent French asset manager specializing in private equity, private debt, and private infrastructure investments. Established as a pioneer in responsible investment, the firm manages a substantial €8.2 billion in assets as of December 31, 2023, reflecting its significant presence in the European private markets. Headquartered in Paris, Swen Capital Partners is known for its multi-strategy approach, deploying capital across various asset classes while maintaining a strong focus on sustainable development and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles.
A core tenet of Swen Capital Partners' philosophy is its deep commitment to impact investing. The firm has launched dedicated funds to address critical global challenges, notably the SWEN Impact Fund for Biodiversity (SIFB), which targets €200 million to support companies contributing to biodiversity protection and restoration. Similarly, the SWEN Blue Ocean fund, aiming for €120 million, focuses on innovative solutions for ocean health. These initiatives underscore Swen's dedication to generating not only financial returns but also measurable positive environmental and social impact, integrating ESG criteria throughout its investment lifecycle.
Swen Capital Partners' investment strategies encompass direct co-investments in private equity alongside leading funds, providing growth capital to promising companies. In private debt, they offer financing solutions, including unitranche, senior, and mezzanine debt, primarily to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and mid-cap companies. Their infrastructure arm invests in essential sectors such as energy transition, digital infrastructure, and social infrastructure, contributing to the development of sustainable economies. While specific first cheque sizes vary by strategy, their direct equity impact funds typically target investments in the range of $5 million to $25 million per company, reflecting their role in scaling innovative solutions.
The firm's long-standing expertise and robust network position it as a key partner for institutional investors seeking exposure to private markets with a strong sustainability overlay. Swen Capital Partners' disciplined investment process, combined with its forward-thinking approach to responsible investing, enables it to identify and support businesses that are not only financially sound but also contribute positively to a more sustainable future.
Investor Profile
Swen Capital Partners has backed more than 67 startups, with 11 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 15 rounds, about 22% of its total and boasts 6 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Series A, Series Unknown, Series B rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in France, United Kingdom, Norway.
- Strong thematic focus on Energy, Renewable Energy, Software.
- Led 3 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $5M – $25M.
Stage Focus
- Series A (33%)
- Series Unknown (33%)
- Series B (13%)
- Private Equity (12%)
- Seed (6%)
- Series E (1%)
- Secondary Market (1%)
Country Focus
- France (76%)
- United Kingdom (6%)
- Norway (4%)
- Italy (3%)
- United States (3%)
- Brazil (1%)
- Germany (1%)
- Denmark (1%)
- Portugal (1%)
- The Netherlands (1%)
Industry Focus
- Energy
- Renewable Energy
- Software
- Recycling
- Manufacturing
- Environmental Consulting
- Internet
- Professional Services
- Human Resources
- Energy Efficiency
Frequently Asked Questions
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