The networking hardware industry in Benelux plays a critical role in advancing communication technologies. This sector comprises companies that design, manufacture, and market essential devices such as routers, switches, and wireless access points. As demand for robust networking solutions surges, driven by trends like IoT and 5G, businesses are introducing innovative products that enhance connectivity and efficiency. Notably, Benelux's strategic location and strong tech ecosystem position it favorably for rapid growth, attracting significant investments. Collaboration among tech startups, established players, and academic institutions accelerates research and development, fostering a dynamic environment for networking hardware innovation.


The investors in this listing represent a mix of venture capitalists, private equity firms, and corporate investors, primarily based in locations like Amsterdam, Luxembourg, and Antwerp. Ranging in size from smaller firms managing a handful of employees to large entities employing thousands, they have been operational for several years, with founding dates spanning from the early 1980s to recent years. In 2024, these investors completed numerous significant deals, with sectors like networking hardware gaining particular traction for their high potential returns as technology continues its upward trajectory.


Top 16 Networking Hardware Investors in Benelux


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. The EIB aims to support sustainable projects that promote growth and job creation across various sectors. Notably, the EIB has been involved in significant transactions within the networking hardware industry, including a $584 million post-IPO debt raised by Nokia in 2018 and a $455.2 million funding deal with Ericsson in December 2023. Additionally, Ericsson raised $293 million in post-IPO debt from the EIB in June 2018. These transactions highlight the EIB's commitment to supporting key players in the networking hardware sector, making it a relevant investor in this field.


2. Gimv

  • Website: gimv.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Antwerp, Flanders, Belgium
  • Founded year: 1980
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: gimv

Gimv is a venture capital investment firm based in Antwerp, Flanders, Belgium, founded in 1980. The firm partners with innovative companies across various sectors, including Consumer, Healthcare, Life Sciences, Smart Industries, and Sustainable Cities. Gimv provides investment management and strategic support to help businesses grow sustainably. Notably, Gimv has been involved in significant transactions in the networking hardware sector, particularly with CoreOptics, which raised a total of $55 million across multiple funding rounds from 2003 to 2008. This involvement highlights Gimv's interest in the networking hardware industry, alongside their broader investment strategy focused on entrepreneurial companies seeking capital and expertise to navigate market challenges.


3. M Ventures

  • Website: m-ventures.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 2009
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 18
  • LinkedIn: merck-ventures

M Ventures is a venture capital fund based in Amsterdam, Netherlands, founded in 2009. The firm specializes in investing in transformative ideas within the biotechnology and technology sectors, particularly focusing on healthcare, life sciences, and advanced technology. M Ventures collaborates closely with entrepreneurs to drive innovation and growth in their portfolio companies. In recent transactions, M Ventures has participated in funding rounds for companies like Celestial AI, which specializes in Photonic Fabric Optical Interconnect Technology, and Polaris Electro-Optics, an integrated photonics products company. These investments highlight M Ventures' engagement in sectors that are crucial for the development of networking hardware, showcasing their commitment to supporting innovative technologies that enhance connectivity and data transfer capabilities.


4. Cvc

  • Website: cvc.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Luxembourg
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 16
  • LinkedIn: cvc-capital-partners

CVC Capital Partners is a prominent private equity firm based in Luxembourg, founded in 2005. The firm specializes in private equity, credit, secondaries, and infrastructure, managing approximately €193 billion in assets for over 1000 clients, including pension funds and institutional investors. CVC focuses on delivering sustainable value and growth through strategic investments. Among their notable transactions in the networking hardware context, CVC acquired Wireless Logic, a leading M2M managed services platform, which has shown significant growth in the telecom sector. They also acquired a 50% stake in Arteria Networks, a fiber operator, highlighting their interest in the B2B telecom market. Furthermore, their acquisition of ConvergeOne, valued at approximately $1.8 billion, underscores their commitment to investing in companies that provide networking solutions and services. These transactions reflect CVC's strategic positioning within the technology and networking hardware sectors.


5. Cipio Partners

  • Website: cipiopartners.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Luxembourg
  • Founded year: 2003
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: cipio-partners

Cipio Partners is a venture capital firm based in Luxembourg, founded in 2003, specializing in European growth capital and minority buyouts for technology companies. They provide financial support and strategic guidance to help businesses scale and prepare for liquidity events. Their focus is primarily on technology firms with proven business models and significant revenue, particularly in the software and B2B sectors. Notably, Cipio Partners has been involved in several transactions within the networking hardware context, including investments in BridgeWave Communications, a supplier of 4G millimeter wave backhaul solutions, which supports network deployments for 4G Mobile and LTE networks. Additionally, they invested in Ethernity Networks, further solidifying their presence in the networking hardware industry.


6. imec.xpand

  • Website: imecxpand.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
  • Founded year: 2017
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: imec.xpand

imec.xpand is a venture capital fund based in Leuven, Flanders, Belgium, founded in 2017. The firm specializes in providing investment and operational support to early-stage deep tech companies, particularly in the semiconductor and nanotechnology sectors. Leveraging imec's expertise and infrastructure, imec.xpand aims to foster innovation and help startups navigate their development and market challenges. Among their notable transactions, imec.xpand invested in Pharrowtech, which raised €15 million in Series A funding to accelerate the deployment of its 60 GHz CMOS RFIC for 5G unlicensed fixed wireless access. They also participated in a seed investment round for Pharrowtech, allowing the company to enhance its product capabilities for various wireless applications. Furthermore, imec.xpand was involved in the Series B funding of Celestial AI, a company developing Photonic Fabric Optical Interconnect Technology, which is relevant to networking hardware. These investments highlight imec.xpand's commitment to supporting innovations that are crucial for the networking hardware industry.


7. KPN Ventures

  • Website: kpnventures.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Rotterdam, South Holland, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: kpn-ventures

KPN Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Rotterdam, South Holland, Netherlands, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in investing in innovative technology companies across various sectors, including Cloud Computing, Cyber Security, and Digital Healthcare. KPN Ventures provides capital, expertise, and networking opportunities to help early-stage companies grow and succeed in their respective markets. Notably, KPN Ventures has participated in significant funding rounds for companies like Actility, which raised $75 million in Series D and is a leading provider of network solutions for the IoT market. Additionally, KPN Ventures has invested in Wirepas, which raised $22 million in a Series D round, focusing on expanding its global ecosystem and product development. These transactions highlight KPN Ventures' commitment to supporting companies that are integral to the networking hardware industry, particularly in the context of IoT solutions.


8. Innovation Industries


Innovation Industries is a venture capital firm based in Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands, founded in 2017. The firm specializes in deep tech investments, focusing on catalyzing growth in technology companies that can transform industries. They provide capital and support to startups across various sectors, including industrial tech, med tech, and food & agri tech. Notably, Innovation Industries has been actively investing in the networking hardware space, with significant transactions such as their lead investment in Pharrowtech, which raised €15 million in Series A funding to accelerate the deployment of its 60 GHz CMOS RFIC technology for 5G applications. Additionally, they have participated in multiple funding rounds for EFFECT Photonics, which raised substantial amounts in Series B, C, and D rounds to develop single-chip coherent optics, a critical technology for networking hardware. These investments highlight their commitment to supporting innovative technologies in the networking hardware industry.


9. TKH Group

  • Website: tkhgroup.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Haaksbergen, Overijssel, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 1930
  • Headcount: 5001-10000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: tkh-group-n.v.

TKH Group is a technology company based in Haaksbergen, Overijssel, Netherlands, specializing in innovative solutions for automation, digitalization, and electrification. Founded in 1930, the company operates globally, providing smart vision, manufacturing, and connectivity systems to enhance efficiency and sustainability across various sectors. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Commend International in 2015, a leader in mission-critical intercom systems, which underscores their commitment to the networking hardware industry. Additionally, their acquisition of Schneider Intercom and CAE Groupe further demonstrates their strategic investments in communication technologies. Most recently, in January 2024, TKH Group acquired JCAI Inc, a company specializing in guidance software for airports, which may also involve networking solutions for operational efficiency.


10. Brabantse Ontwikkelings Maatschappij (BOM)


The Brabantse Ontwikkelings Maatschappij (BOM) is a venture capital firm based in Tilburg, North Brabant, Netherlands, founded in 1983. BOM acts as a development agency that supports startups and scale-ups in the Brabant region by providing funding, expertise, and networking opportunities. They have been involved in various sectors, including sustainable food and energy, but also have made significant investments in the networking hardware context. Notably, BOM has invested in EFFECT Photonics, which raised funds in Series A rounds in 2015 and 2016, focusing on photonics technology that is essential for networking hardware applications. Additionally, they participated in the recent debt financing of SMART-Photonics, which raised over $44 million in July 2023. These transactions highlight BOM's engagement with companies that are relevant to the networking hardware industry, showcasing their broader investment strategy while still maintaining a connection to this specific sector.


11. Invest-NL

  • Website: invest-nl.nl
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 2020
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 17
  • LinkedIn: invest-nl

Invest-NL is an impact investment firm based in Amsterdam, founded in 2020, that focuses on financing sustainable and innovative projects in the Netherlands. They support entrepreneurs with promising plans for societal transitions, particularly in the energy and technology sectors. In 2024, Invest-NL has been involved in 17 investments, including significant funding rounds for companies in the networking hardware space. Notably, they participated in multiple funding rounds for EFFECT Photonics, which raised substantial amounts in Series C and D rounds to develop single-chip coherent optics, a technology relevant to networking hardware. Additionally, they invested in SMART-Photonics, which raised funds for its photonic chip technology, further emphasizing their engagement in the networking hardware industry. By mobilizing capital from various sources, Invest-NL aims to make impactful investments that contribute to a more sustainable economy while also supporting technological advancements in networking hardware.


12. Triton Partners


Triton Partners is a private equity investment firm based in Luxembourg, founded in 1997. The firm specializes in private equity and credit investments in European mid-market businesses, focusing on sectors such as Business Services, Industrial Tech, and Healthcare. Triton provides operational expertise and capital to help companies unlock their full potential, partnering with management teams to address challenges and drive growth. Notably, Triton has made significant investments in companies relevant to the networking hardware industry, including Wavelynx Technologies, which offers an open and secure access control platform, and Turck Holding, known for its smart sensor technology and decentralized automation products. These transactions highlight Triton's engagement in sectors that are integral to networking hardware, showcasing their capability to influence and support advancements in this field.


13. NXP Semiconductors

  • Website: nxp.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Eindhoven, North Brabant, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 2006
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: nxp-semiconductors

NXP Semiconductors N.V. is a leading semiconductor manufacturer based in Eindhoven, North Brabant, Netherlands, specializing in advanced solutions for automotive, industrial, mobile, smart city, and smart home applications. Founded in 2006, the company has grown to employ over 10,000 people and has made significant investments in various sectors. Notably, NXP has been active in the networking hardware space, as evidenced by their recent acquisition of Aviva Links for $242.5 million, aimed at enhancing automotive networking solutions with a focus on asymmetrical multi-gigabit connectivity for software-defined vehicles. This acquisition is expected to close in the first half of 2025, pending regulatory approvals. Additionally, NXP's strategic investment in MMB Networks during their Series B funding round highlights their commitment to expanding their influence in the networking sector. These transactions reflect NXP's strategy to integrate advanced networking capabilities into their semiconductor offerings, making them a relevant player in the networking hardware industry.


14. Mutares Benelux

  • Website: mutares.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 2021
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 16
  • LinkedIn: mutares-benelux

Mutares Benelux, a private equity firm based in Amsterdam, was founded in 2021 and specializes in acquiring and managing companies in transition. The firm provides operational support and consulting services to enhance profitability and growth across various sectors, including automotive, technology, and retail. Notably, Mutares has been involved in several significant transactions relevant to the networking hardware industry. They acquired Alan Dick Communications Limited, a UK-based provider of critical communications and security systems, which generated approximately EUR 15 million in revenue. This acquisition highlights their commitment to the networking hardware sector. Additionally, they are in the process of acquiring Eltel Networks Energetyka S.A. and Eltel Networks Engineering S.A., which are expected to further strengthen their portfolio in the technology and networking space. Overall, Mutares Benelux is positioned as a strategic investor capable of driving growth in companies within the networking hardware industry.


15. Kpn

  • Website: kpn.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Rotterdam, South Holland, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 1989
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: kpn

KPN is a leading telecommunications provider based in Rotterdam, South Holland, Netherlands, founded in 1989. The company offers a wide range of services, including fixed and mobile telephony, internet, and television, catering to both consumers and businesses. KPN is known for its reliable network and comprehensive service offerings. In recent years, KPN has made significant investments and acquisitions to enhance its position in the networking hardware and ICT solutions market. Notably, KPN participated in a $25 million Series C funding round for Actility, a key player in IoT network solutions, which underscores its commitment to advancing networking technologies. Additionally, KPN has acquired several companies, including Getronics for €766 million, Telfort for $1.2 billion, and Kabeltex, further solidifying its presence in the networking and IT services sectors.


16. ABN AMRO Clearing Bank

  • Website: abnamro.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 1982
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 19
  • LinkedIn: abn-amro-clearing-bank-n-v-

ABN AMRO Clearing Bank, founded in 1982 and based in Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands, is a banking institution that provides a range of financial services including personal banking, business banking, and investment management. The bank serves individual consumers and businesses, helping them manage their financial needs and investments while ensuring compliance with financial regulations. In recent years, ABN AMRO has been involved in several notable transactions within the networking hardware context, including significant debt financing for Fibrus, which raised over $131 million in 2024 and $289 million in 2022, and euNetworks Group, which raised over $1.3 billion in 2024. Additionally, they participated in the financing of Glasfaser Nordwest's FTTH network expansion and CityFibre's £4.9 billion debt package aimed at funding fiber builds to 8 million homes. These transactions highlight ABN AMRO's active role in supporting the networking hardware industry through substantial financial commitments.



Networking Hardware Insights: Key Investors in Benelux


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
European Investment Bank (EIB)Luxembourg1001-5000195899
GimvAntwerp, Flanders, Belgium51-20019808
M VenturesAmsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands11-50200918
CvcLuxembourg1001-5000200516
Cipio PartnersLuxembourg11-5020032
imec.xpandLeuven, Flanders, Belgium1-1020175
KPN VenturesRotterdam, South Holland, Netherlands1-1020153
Innovation IndustriesAmsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands11-50201710
TKH GroupHaaksbergen, Overijssel, Netherlands5001-1000019301
Brabantse Ontwikkelings Maatschappij (BOM)Tilburg, North Brabant, Netherlands51-200198310
Invest-NLAmsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands51-200202017
Triton PartnersLuxembourg201-50019976
NXP SemiconductorsEindhoven, North Brabant, Netherlands10001+20061
Mutares BeneluxAmsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands51-200202116
KpnRotterdam, South Holland, Netherlands10001+19892
ABN AMRO Clearing BankAmsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands501-1000198219


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