The internet service provider industry in Europe is a vibrant sector defined by companies that deliver high-speed internet, mobile services, and innovative communication solutions. This industry includes a mix of large corporates, private equity investors, and venture capital firms, all working to enhance connectivity and meet rising consumer demands. Rapid technological advancements and the adoption of fiber-optic networks are shaping the way businesses operate, while ongoing competition spurs innovation. Currently, the push for 5G and expansive broadband access are driving many companies to invest heavily in infrastructure and services, ultimately improving online experiences for millions.


The list of top investors shaping the European internet service provider scene highlights a mix of private equity, corporate, and venture capital firms. These investors hail from metropolitan hubs such as London, Stockholm, and Frankfurt. Ranging in size from small entities to vast corporations, they were all founded between the politically tumultuous years of 1945 and 2015. Collectively, these firms accounted for notable deal activity in 2024, cementing their roles as significant players within the industry.


Top 12 Internet Service Provider Investors in Europe


1. European Investment Bank (EIB)


The European Investment Bank (EIB) is a public entity based in Luxembourg, established in 1958, that provides a range of financial services including loans, equity investments, guarantees, and advisory services. EIB focuses on supporting sustainable projects that promote growth and job creation across various sectors. In the context of internet service providers, EIB has been involved in several notable transactions, such as providing $27,532,570 in debt financing to Hyperoptic in 2016, $391,142,303 to Deutsche Glasfaser in 2024, and $27,166,383 to Gigaclear in 2016. Additionally, EIB supported Telecom Egypt with $164,731,438 in debt financing in 2022. These transactions highlight EIB's active role in financing initiatives that enhance internet infrastructure and services, aligning with its mission to support sustainable development.


2. EQT Group

  • Website: eqtgroup.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 30
  • LinkedIn: eqt-partners

EQT Group is a prominent investment firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, specializing in private equity, infrastructure, real estate, growth equity, and venture capital. Founded in 1994, EQT serves institutional investors by managing diverse investment portfolios across various sectors and geographies. The firm has made significant strides in the internet service provider sector through strategic acquisitions. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Deutsche Glasfaser for approximately $2.73 billion, which enhances their presence in the German broadband market. In 2017, EQT Infrastructure acquired Lumos Networks Corporation for around $950 million, gaining a foothold in the U.S. fiber-optic network services market. Furthermore, EQT's acquisition of IP-Only in 2013 and Broadnet in 2018 highlights their focus on strengthening fiber-based data communication services in Sweden and Norway, respectively. These investments reflect EQT's strategy to capitalize on the growing demand for high-speed internet and data services.


3. Liberty Global

  • Website: libertyglobal.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 7
  • LinkedIn: liberty-global

Liberty Global Ltd. is a leading telecommunications company based in London, England, that provides a wide range of services including gigabit broadband, 5G mobile services, and entertainment platforms. Founded in 2005, the company has grown significantly through strategic acquisitions in the internet service provider sector. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Unitymedia, Germany's second-largest cable operator, for $5.2 billion in 2009, and Ziggo, the largest cable operator in the Netherlands, for approximately €10 billion in 2014. Additionally, Liberty Global acquired Kabel Baden-Württemberg, Germany's third-largest cable operator, for about $4.5 billion in 2011, and VTR Wireless SpA in Chile, enhancing its broadband communications and wireless capabilities. These acquisitions have allowed Liberty Global to strengthen its presence in key European markets and provide reliable internet and entertainment services to both consumers and businesses.


4. Accenture

  • Website: accenture.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
  • Founded year: 2001
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 51
  • LinkedIn: accenture

Accenture is a global consulting firm based in Dublin, Ireland, specializing in information technology and management consulting services. Founded in 2001, the company has grown to employ over 10,000 professionals and has made significant strides in various industries, including telecommunications. In 2024, Accenture announced its intent to acquire Fibermind, an Italy-based network services company that specializes in fiber and mobile 5G networks, aiming to enhance its network engineering capabilities. Additionally, Accenture's acquisition of Award Solutions, a provider of training and consulting services in advanced wireless and network technologies, further demonstrates its commitment to strengthening its position in the telecom and internet service provider sectors. These strategic moves highlight Accenture's focus on digital transformation and innovation in network services, making it a relevant player in the internet service provider industry.


5. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération


Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a venture capital investor based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2015. As a public entity and financial institution, Bpifrance supports entrepreneurs and businesses in France and internationally through various services, including direct funding, export credit insurance, and private equity investments. The institution aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation, helping businesses navigate growth and international expansion. Notably, Bpifrance has been involved in significant transactions within the internet service provider context, such as investing €115 million in Wifirst, a company focused on providing internet services, acquiring a 55% stake from the Bolloré Group. Additionally, Bpifrance has supported E-Blink, a wireless fronthaul developer, in multiple funding rounds, indicating its commitment to advancing technology and services in the internet sector. These transactions highlight Bpifrance's active role in the internet service provider industry.


6. Deutsche Bank

  • Website: db.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany
  • Founded year: 1870
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 32
  • LinkedIn: deutsche-bank

Deutsche Bank AG is a prominent investment bank and financial services provider based in Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany. Founded in 1870, the bank offers a wide range of solutions including investment banking, corporate banking, cash management, trade finance, and securities services. It serves corporate and institutional clients, helping them manage their financial assets and liquidity effectively through its digital platform, Autobahn. In recent years, Deutsche Bank has been involved in several significant transactions within the internet service provider sector. For instance, it participated in the $1.4 billion debt financing for NBN Co in March 2023, which is crucial for expanding Australia's national broadband network. Additionally, Deutsche Bank was part of the $1.4 billion debt financing for CityFibre in December 2018, aimed at enhancing fiber broadband infrastructure in the UK. Furthermore, it contributed to the debt financing of FirstDigital Telecom, showcasing its active role in supporting the growth of internet service providers. These transactions highlight Deutsche Bank's strategic involvement in the internet service provider industry, making it a relevant investor in this space.


7. Apax

  • Website: apax.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1981
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: apax-partners

Apax Partners LLP is a private equity firm based in London, England, founded in 1981. The firm specializes in managing investments across various sectors, including technology, internet/consumer, healthcare, and services. Apax collaborates with management teams of high-potential companies to drive growth and innovation. Notably, Apax has been involved in several key transactions within the telecommunications sector, including the acquisition of Salt Mobile in 2011, Melita Plc in 2016, and Cabovisão in 2016. Additionally, they participated in funding rounds for Jazztel and Bezeq Israeli Telecommunication Corp Ltd. These investments highlight Apax's strategic focus on enhancing capital through investments in private equity funds, particularly in the internet service provider space.


8. Vodafone

  • Website: vodafone.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1982
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • LinkedIn: vodafone

Vodafone Group Plc, founded in 1982 and based in London, England, is a prominent telecommunications company with a vast customer base exceeding 330 million. The company offers a range of services, including mobile and fixed telecommunications, broadband, and financial technology solutions. Vodafone has made significant investments in the internet service provider sector, notably acquiring Kabel Deutschland, Germany's largest cable company, for £6.5 billion in 2013, which expanded their broadband service offerings. Additionally, their acquisition of Liberty Global in 2019 for $21.3 billion further solidified their position in the broadband and television markets. Vodafone's strategy focuses on diversifying its services and enhancing digital inclusion, making them a key player in the internet service provider landscape.


9. Index Ventures

  • Website: indexventures.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1996
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 67
  • LinkedIn: index-ventures

Index Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 1996, based in London, England. The firm invests in innovative startups across various sectors, including technology and healthcare, providing capital and strategic support to entrepreneurs. They focus on building long-term partnerships with founders to drive success. Notably, Index Ventures has invested in companies relevant to the internet service provider industry, such as Fon, which raised significant funding to expand its Wi-Fi network, and eero, which raised $50 million to enhance home internet connectivity. These transactions highlight Index Ventures' commitment to supporting companies that improve internet services and infrastructure.


10. Bgf

  • Website: bgf.co.uk
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 53
  • LinkedIn: bgfinvestments

BGF Investment Management Limited is a venture capital firm based in London, England, founded in 2011. The firm specializes in providing growth funding and value creation support to small and mid-sized businesses in the UK and Ireland. BGF addresses the funding gap in the market through minority investments and extensive support services. Notably, BGF has invested in several companies relevant to the internet service provider sector, including broadbandchoices, which raised over $16 million in 2012, and Bigblu Broadband plc, which raised approximately $15.5 million in 2016. Additionally, BGF's investment in Lumenisity, a fiber optic technology firm, highlights their commitment to supporting the infrastructure necessary for internet service provision. Their investment in Jola Cloud Solutions further emphasizes their involvement in the telecommunications and internet services landscape.


11. Ldc

  • Website: ldc.co.uk
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1981
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 15
  • LinkedIn: ldc

Lloyds Development Capital (LDC) is a private equity firm based in London, England, that specializes in providing growth capital and strategic support to mid-market businesses across various sectors. Founded in 1981 and part of Lloyds Banking Group, LDC focuses on fostering long-term partnerships to drive business success through investment and advisory services. In the context of internet service providers, LDC has made significant investments in several relevant companies, including Wifinity, a provider of wireless internet solutions; Commsworld, a telecommunications provider; Cellhire, which offers mobile voice, data, and IoT communications services; Onecom, the UK's largest independent business telecommunications provider; and Giacom World Networks, a cloud IT and communications solutions provider. These transactions highlight LDC's commitment to supporting growth in the internet service provider industry.


12. 3i Group plc

  • Website: 3i.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1945
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: 3i-group-plc

3i Group plc is a London-based private equity and infrastructure investment firm founded in 1945. The firm specializes in providing capital and expertise to mid-market companies, focusing on sustainable growth. With a diverse portfolio and a strong international presence, 3i Group aims to create value for its stakeholders through strategic investments. Notably, 3i Group has made significant investments in the internet service provider sector, including a $24 million financing round for Speakeasy in 2004, aimed at expanding their network and enhancing services for online gamers. In 2004, they also participated in a venture round for The Cloud, a company focused on providing Wi-Fi services. Furthermore, their acquisition of Wireless Infrastructure Group in 2016 for over $421 million highlights their commitment to investing in companies that enhance telecommunications infrastructure. These transactions illustrate 3i Group's active role in the internet service provider industry, alongside their broader investment strategy.



Internet Service Provider Insights: Key Investors in Europe


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
European Investment Bank (EIB)Luxembourg1001-5000195899
EQT GroupStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden1001-5000199430
Liberty GlobalLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)10001+20057
AccentureDublin, Dublin, Ireland10001+200151
Bpifrance French Tech AccélérationParis, Île-De-France, France1-102015198
Deutsche BankFrankfurt, Hesse, Germany10001+187032
ApaxLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)201-50019818
VodafoneLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)10001+19820
Index VenturesLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200199667
BgfLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200201153
LdcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200198115
3i Group plcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)201-50019453


Want to find more investors focusing on the internet service provider industry?

If you want to find more investors that are active in the internet service providerindustry, you can do that with Inven. We built this list and analysis throughInven's Investor Search, and there are a lot more private equity, venturecapital, and corporate investors like these globally.

With Inven, you'll also get to know:

  • Deal History: Number of deals and their sizes.
  • Portfolio: Companies they've invested in.
  • Contact data: Key dealmakers, including their emails and phonenumbers.
  • ...and much more!