The drinking water purification industry in Europe is crucial for ensuring safe, reliable access to clean water. Companies in this sector range from startups developing innovative filtration technologies to established corporations specializing in water treatment solutions. Many firms focus on sustainability, incorporating eco-friendly practices in their offerings, and addressing increasingly stringent environmental regulations. The industry is evolving with advancements in technology like smart filtration, addressing emerging contaminants and improving efficiency. With growing concerns about water scarcity and quality, demand for effective purification solutions is expected to rise, making this industry vibrant and necessary for the future of public health.


This list features 14 prominent investors in the drinking water purification sector, varying from corporate giants to venture capital firms. Based in cities like Brussels and London, these investors range in size from start-ups to multi-national corporations. Founded between 1958 and 2017, they collectively engaged in 400 investments in 2024. Significant contributions from established entities such as the European Innovation Council and emerging firms like Katapult illustrate a robust commitment to innovation and sustainability in this critical industry.


Top 14 Drinking Water Purification Investors in Europe


1. European Innovation Council (EIC)


The European Innovation Council (EIC) is a public entity based in Brussels, Belgium, founded in 1958, that supports innovation and entrepreneurship across Europe. It offers various funding programs, including the EIC Accelerator and EIC Pathfinder, aimed at helping startups and SMEs develop and scale their technologies. The EIC provides business acceleration services, networking opportunities, and prizes to foster innovation in multiple sectors. Among its notable transactions, the EIC has supported companies like SolarDew and TreaTech. SolarDew, which focuses on innovative water purification solutions, received funding through grants from the EIC, highlighting the council's interest in water-related technologies. TreaTech, while primarily focused on circular waste treatment, also aligns with the broader goals of improving water management and purification processes. These transactions demonstrate the EIC's commitment to supporting innovations that can enhance drinking water purification technologies.


2. Crowdcube

  • Website: crowdcube.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: crowdcube-limited

Crowdcube is a London-based crowdfunding platform founded in 2010 that enables businesses to raise capital through equity investments. It connects startups and SMEs with potential investors, facilitating the funding process. The platform promotes diversity and inclusion within its workforce while providing investment management services to its clients. Notably, Crowdcube has been involved in several transactions relevant to the drinking water purification industry, including Hydraloop.com, which raised over $4.4 million for its innovative water recycling solutions, and Salinity Solutions, which raised over $1.8 million across two rounds for its technology aimed at desalination and water purification. Additionally, Crowdcube has supported Stericile and Oxi-Tech Solutions Ltd, both of which are engaged in water treatment technologies, further solidifying its role in the drinking water purification sector.


3. 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 several transactions relevant to the drinking water purification sector, including Kumulus Water, a Tunisian startup that raised $969k in pre-Seed funding to enhance its water service solutions. Other investments include CASTALIE, ONDILO, and Purecontrol, which, while not exclusively focused on drinking water purification, contribute to the broader context of water management and technology innovation.


4. Almi

  • Website: almi.se
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 7
  • LinkedIn: almi-ab

Almi AB is a financial services company based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1994. It provides loans, risk capital, and business development support to small and medium-sized enterprises in Sweden, aiming to enhance their growth and competitiveness. Almi has been involved in several transactions related to drinking water purification, including a notable investment in Stockholm Water Technology, which raised 10 million Swedish crowns for market entry and product development. Additionally, Almi invested in Altered, a company that manufactures a smart water nozzle, further showcasing their engagement in the water technology sector. Other relevant investments include Ecofiltration Nordic and Mimbly, which also focus on water-related solutions. These transactions highlight Almi's active role in supporting innovations that contribute to drinking water purification.


5. Indutrade Life Science

  • Website: indutrade.se
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1978
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 14
  • LinkedIn: indutrade-life-science

Indutrade Life Science is a corporate investor based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1978. The company is part of an industrial group that focuses on developing and acquiring companies with high technical expertise across various technology and industrial sectors. Indutrade emphasizes long-term relationships with its customers and operates through a decentralized structure, allowing its subsidiaries to maintain independence while benefiting from the group's resources. Notably, Indutrade has made significant strides in the drinking water purification sector by acquiring acti-Chem A/S, a Danish company specializing in sustainable water treatment solutions, which enhances Indutrade's portfolio in this area. This acquisition, finalized on May 24, 2022, reflects Indutrade's commitment to innovative water treatment technologies. Additionally, their other acquisitions, while not directly related to drinking water purification, showcase their strategy of enhancing their industrial capabilities, which can indirectly support water purification technologies.


6. Waterlogic International


Waterlogic International, founded in 1992 and based in Maidenhead, England, is a corporate investor specializing in hydration solutions. The company offers a diverse range of products, including water dispensers, coolers, and instant boilers, catering to businesses and organizations that require reliable hydration solutions. Waterlogic has a strong commitment to sustainability, focusing on reducing single-use plastic waste. Notably, the company has been active in the drinking water purification sector through several key acquisitions. In 2021, Waterlogic acquired Q water, a Canadian water filtration systems supplier, to enhance its premium water offerings. Additionally, it acquired Pure Life H2O Inc. in 2018, further solidifying its presence in the water purification market. Other relevant acquisitions include Pure Pro and Aquafree, which also contribute to its capabilities in providing water purification solutions. These transactions highlight Waterlogic's strategic focus on expanding its portfolio in the drinking water purification industry.


7. Pentair

  • Website: pentair.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1966
  • Headcount: 5001-10000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: pentair

Pentair plc is a water treatment company based in London, England, that provides innovative solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial water management. Founded in 1966, Pentair has established itself as a leader in the water products industry, offering a range of products including pool and spa equipment, water softening and filtration systems, and agricultural products. The company serves a diverse customer base, including homeowners, businesses, and municipalities, with a strong focus on sustainable water solutions. Notably, Pentair has made strategic acquisitions to enhance its position in the drinking water purification market, including the acquisition of Hidro Filtros do Brasil, a manufacturer of water filters, and Aquion, which strengthens its offerings in the residential and commercial water treatment sector. Additionally, Pentair has been involved in funding rounds for Voltea, a company focused on innovative water treatment technologies, further emphasizing its commitment to advancing water purification solutions.


8. European Investment Bank (EIB)


The European Investment Bank (EIB) is a public entity based in Luxembourg, founded in 1958, that provides a range of financial services including loans, equity investments, guarantees, and advisory services. EIB focuses on supporting sustainable projects across various sectors, including water management and purification. In 2024, EIB was involved in significant transactions such as providing debt financing to The Water Group, which raised approximately $369.8 million, and Azienda Comprensoriale Acquedottistica, which secured around $30.9 million. These transactions highlight EIB's commitment to financing initiatives that promote growth and sustainability in the drinking water sector, reinforcing its role as a key player in supporting water purification efforts.


9. 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. Notably, EQT has made significant investments in the drinking water purification sector, including the acquisition of Saur SAS, a company focused on water services, for approximately $1.7 billion in December 2018. Additionally, EQT's acquisition of Desotec, a company known for its filtration solutions, further emphasizes their involvement in the water purification industry. These strategic investments highlight EQT's commitment to enhancing water quality and access through innovative solutions.


10. Suez

  • Website: suez.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1997
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: suez

Suez SA is a corporate investor based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, specializing in water and waste management. Founded in 1997, Suez has over 160 years of experience in addressing critical environmental challenges globally. The company provides essential services to public sector operators and industrial clients, focusing on sustainable practices and innovative solutions for water treatment, waste recycling, and resource management. Notably, Suez has made several strategic acquisitions in the drinking water purification sector, including:1. **Degrémont SAS** - Acquired on June 26, 2014, this company specializes in water treatment solutions, enhancing Suez's capabilities in the purification of drinking water.2. **SUEZ Water Technologies & Solutions** - The acquisition of GE Water & Process Technologies for €3.2 billion on September 30, 2017, established a new business unit focused on water technologies, further solidifying Suez's position in the drinking water purification market.3. **Eagle Water Company** - Approved for acquisition on December 9, 2021, this deal included investments to assist customers with rate adjustments, indicating Suez's commitment to improving water services.4. **Canaragua** - Acquired a 100% stake in Canaragua on January 19, 2021, which is part of Suez's strategy to enhance growth in water management in Spain.Through these transactions, Suez demonstrates a clear focus on expanding its footprint in the drinking water purification industry, making it a relevant investor in this sector.


11. InnoEnergy

  • Website: innoenergy.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Eindhoven, North Brabant, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 52
  • LinkedIn: innoenergy

EIT InnoEnergy is a not-for-profit organization founded in 2010, based in Eindhoven, North Brabant, Netherlands, dedicated to accelerating sustainable energy innovations. It serves as a marketplace for energy solutions, offering training programs and support for innovators and corporates in the energy sector. InnoEnergy collaborates with various stakeholders to tackle challenges related to energy transition and sustainability. Among its notable transactions, InnoEnergy has invested in Stockholm Water Technology, which focuses on water purification technologies, and RVE.SOL, a Portuguese minigrid firm that aims to provide renewable energy and clean water to communities in East Africa. The latter project specifically highlights InnoEnergy's commitment to integrating clean water solutions within its investment strategy, making it a relevant player in the drinking water purification sector.


12. 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, UK, founded in 2011. The firm specializes in providing growth funding and value creation support to small and mid-sized businesses across various sectors in the UK and Ireland. BGF focuses on addressing the funding gap in the market through minority investments and extensive support services. Notably, BGF has invested in Puraffinity, which raised $8,802,690 in a Series A funding round in September 2024, highlighting their commitment to innovative water purification solutions. Additionally, BGF's investment in Amazon Filters and Molecular Products Group showcases their involvement in companies that contribute to filtration and environmental management, further emphasizing their relevance in the drinking water purification context. Other investments, such as those in Wales Environmental and Flowline, indicate a broader interest in environmental services, which can intersect with water purification efforts.


13. Katapult

  • Website: katapult.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Oslo, Oslo, Norway
  • Founded year: 2017
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: katapult-accelerator

Katapult is an impact investment firm based in Oslo, Norway, founded in 2017. They specialize in supporting tech startups that tackle global challenges through investment, accelerator programs, and mentorship. Katapult has made several notable investments in the drinking water purification sector, including Desolenator, which focuses on innovative water purification solutions, and Matter, which develops microplastic filtration technology. Additionally, they have invested in other companies like Flocean and Ecospears, which are also relevant to water quality and purification. With a total of 8 investments in 2024, Katapult continues to play a significant role in fostering startups that address critical environmental issues, including drinking water purification.


14. EEP Africa

  • Website: eepafrica.org
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: eepafrica

EEP Africa is a not-for-profit organization based in Helsinki, Finland, founded in 2010. It focuses on clean energy financing and provides early-stage grants and support for innovative clean energy projects in Southern and Eastern Africa. The organization aims to enhance energy access and investment, collaborating with various funding partners to facilitate sustainable development in the region. Notably, EEP Africa has been involved in transactions that intersect with drinking water purification, such as its support for OffGridBox, which provides affordable renewable energy and clean water solutions. Additionally, EEP Africa has engaged with Water Access Rwanda, further emphasizing its commitment to projects that improve access to clean water. These initiatives highlight EEP Africa's role in promoting sustainable solutions that encompass both energy and water access.



Drinking Water Purification Insights: Key Investors in Europe


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
European Innovation Council (EIC)Brussels, Brussels, Belgium201-500195857
CrowdcubeLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-20020103
Bpifrance French Tech AccélérationParis, Île-De-France, France1-102015198
AlmiStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden201-50019947
Indutrade Life ScienceStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden1001-5000197814
Waterlogic InternationalMaidenhead, England, United Kingdom (UK)1001-500019920
PentairLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)5001-1000019662
European Investment Bank (EIB)Luxembourg1001-5000195899
EQT GroupStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden1001-5000199430
SuezParis, Île-De-France, France10001+19975
InnoEnergyEindhoven, North Brabant, Netherlands201-500201052
BgfLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200201153
KatapultOslo, Oslo, Norway11-5020178
EEP AfricaHelsinki, Uusimaa, Finland11-5020100


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