The telecommunication equipment industry in Europe is crucial for enabling communication technologies and infrastructure. It includes companies that manufacture devices like routers, switches, and fiber optics. Key players develop innovative solutions that meet the demands of mobile connectivity, IoT, and emerging tech such as 5G. As the digital economy grows, there is a shift towards agile, software-driven solutions that enhance network efficiency. Notably, the industry sees significant investment as firms strive to leverage data and optimize performance, positioning themselves for future growth. The pursuit of sustainability and enhanced connectivity will likely lead to transformative advances in services and infrastructure.


This list showcases various intelligent investors from Europe in the telecommunication equipment sector. The investors include venture capitalists, private equity firms, and corporate investors, showcasing a mix of funding strategies and expertise. Headquartered primarily in major financial hubs like London and Stockholm, these firms range in size from small teams to large organizations with thousands of employees. Founded between 1958 and 2016, they collectively executed a substantial number of deals, with 2024 seeing over 400 investments. Notably, their varied approach underscores the importance of growth and innovation in the telecommunications domain.


Top 16 Telecommunication Equipment Investors in Europe


1. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération


Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a venture capital firm 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 firm aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation, helping businesses navigate growth and international expansion. Notably, Bpifrance has been involved in significant transactions within the telecommunications equipment sector, including investments in Actility, a leading provider of network solutions for the IoT market, where they participated in multiple funding rounds totaling over $92 million. Additionally, Bpifrance invested in Sigfox, a prominent IoT connectivity provider, contributing to their funding rounds that raised substantial capital for expanding their global network. These transactions highlight Bpifrance's active role in the telecommunications equipment industry.


2. 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 several key acquisitions aimed at bolstering its capabilities in the telecom sector. Notably, the acquisition of Fibermind, an Italy-based network services company focused on fiber and mobile 5G networks, aims to enhance Accenture's network engineering services. Additionally, the acquisition of Award Solutions, a provider of training and consulting services in advanced wireless and network technologies, further solidifies Accenture's position in the telecom and technology sectors. These transactions reflect Accenture's strategic focus on improving its offerings in telecommunications, making it a significant player in the industry.


3. 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 across various sectors, including telecommunications. In recent years, the EIB has been actively involved in financing major telecommunications companies. Notable transactions include a $584 million post-IPO debt raised by Nokia in 2018, a $455.2 million funding deal with Ericsson in December 2023, and a €315 million agreement with Cellnex Telecom to finance the expansion of 5G infrastructure across Europe. These investments highlight the EIB's commitment to supporting the telecommunications sector and its role in facilitating the growth of essential infrastructure.


4. European Innovation Council (EIC)


The European Innovation Council (EIC) is a public entity based in Brussels, Belgium, established to support innovation and entrepreneurship across Europe. Founded in 1958, the EIC 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 diverse sectors. Notably, the EIC has been involved in funding transactions relevant to the telecommunications equipment sector, such as Tessares, which raised funds in both venture rounds and grants, and Oledcomm, which also received significant grant funding. These transactions highlight the EIC's commitment to supporting innovative companies that may contribute to advancements in telecommunications technology.


5. 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 multiple sectors and geographies. Notably, EQT has made significant strides in the telecommunications sector through its acquisitions of key companies. In March 2020, EQT acquired Zayo for $14.3 billion, a major player in providing fiber-optic bandwidth and connectivity services. Additionally, EQT's acquisition of Deutsche Glasfaser in February 2020 for approximately $2.73 billion further solidified its commitment to expanding telecommunications infrastructure in Germany. The firm also acquired Melita Plc, a telecommunications provider in Malta, aiming to support its growth and international expansion. Furthermore, EQT's acquisition of Segra, a regional fiber network provider, highlights its focus on enhancing telecommunications capabilities. These transactions underscore EQT Group's active role in the telecommunications equipment industry, making it a relevant investor in this space.


6. 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 prominent telecommunications company based in London, England, providing a wide range of services such as gigabit broadband, 5G mobile services, and entertainment platforms. Founded in 2005, the company operates across multiple European countries, leveraging its extensive network infrastructure to serve both consumers and businesses. As an investor, Liberty Global has participated in several significant funding rounds in the telecommunication equipment sector. Notably, they backed Tibit Communications in a Series C funding round aimed at accelerating the development of 25G ASIC technology, alongside other notable investors like Intel Capital and Ciena. Additionally, Liberty Global has invested in Kymeta, a company focused on satellite communications, through multiple funding rounds, showcasing their interest in innovative telecommunication solutions. Their investments in Tarana Wireless and Technetix further highlight their active role in the telecommunication equipment landscape.


7. 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 specializes in providing loans, risk capital, and business development support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Sweden. Almi aims to enhance the growth and competitiveness of these businesses by offering tailored financial solutions and guidance. Notably, Almi has been involved in several transactions within the telecommunications equipment sector, including investments in BeammWave, which raised SEK 6.5 million, and Maven Wireless, which secured $1,970,911. Additionally, Almi has invested in InCoax Network Europe, Sweratel, and Forsway, all of which are engaged in telecommunications technologies. These investments highlight Almi's active role in supporting innovation and development in the telecommunications equipment industry.


8. Seraphim Space

  • Website: seraphim.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2016
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 27
  • LinkedIn: seraphim-capital

Seraphim Space is a London-based venture capital firm founded in 2016, specializing in SpaceTech investments. They provide funding and support to startups in the space technology sector through various investment funds and an accelerator program. Notably, Seraphim Space has participated in significant funding rounds for companies like Skylo Technologies, which raised $37 million to enhance connectivity for smartphones and IoT devices, and ALL.SPACE, which raised $44 million in 2024. These transactions highlight their engagement with companies that have a direct impact on telecommunications, particularly in the context of non-terrestrial networks and innovative communication solutions. Additionally, they have invested in Sofant Technologies, which may also relate to telecommunications through its focus on advanced technologies.


9. 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 within the telecommunication equipment sector, including a £5 million investment in Lumenisity, a firm specializing in fibre optic and cabling technology, aimed at commercializing research and building manufacturing facilities. Additionally, BGF's investment in AdEPT Telecom, a provider of IT services to the education sector, further highlights their involvement in the telecommunications space. These transactions demonstrate BGF's active role in supporting the growth of businesses within the telecommunication equipment industry.


10. 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, helping them grow sustainably. With a strong international presence and a diverse portfolio, 3i Group aims to create value for its stakeholders through strategic investments. Notably, 3i Group has made several significant investments in the telecommunication equipment sector, including the acquisition of Wireless Infrastructure Group for approximately $421 million in 2016, which focuses on providing infrastructure for mobile networks. Additionally, they acquired Eltel, a company involved in telecommunications and electrical infrastructure, in 2007. Their earlier investments in companies like Icera, which raised $40 million in a Series D funding round in 2007, and Sonim Technologies, which raised $8 million in 2006, further highlight their commitment to the telecommunication equipment industry.


11. Enterprise Ireland


Enterprise Ireland is a public entity that serves as the Irish government's enterprise development agency, founded in 1998. It supports Irish businesses at all stages of their growth journey by providing funding, advisory services, and market access assistance. The agency focuses on helping companies scale and compete internationally across various industries, including technology and manufacturing. Notably, Enterprise Ireland has been involved in several transactions relevant to the telecommunications sector, such as investing in Intune Networks, a Dublin technology firm that raised €22m in venture capital to expand its market coverage in telecommunications. Additionally, it has supported companies like Firecomms, which raised $5 million in venture funding, further demonstrating its engagement in the telecommunication equipment industry. These transactions highlight Enterprise Ireland's role in fostering innovation and growth within the telecommunications space.


12. Amadeus Capital Partners


Amadeus Capital Partners is a venture capital firm based in London, England, founded in 1997. The firm specializes in investing in technology companies across various sectors, including AI, Cyber Security, and FinTech. Notably, Amadeus has made significant investments in the telecommunications equipment sector, with key transactions including funding for Cambridge Broadband Networks, which raised multiple rounds of funding totaling over $40 million, and Southampton Photonics, which also received substantial investment. These transactions highlight Amadeus's commitment to supporting innovative technologies in telecommunications, alongside their broader investment strategy in technology startups and growth-stage companies.


13. 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 made several key investments in the telecommunications sector, including the acquisition of Salt Mobile in 2011, a significant player in the mobile telecommunications market. In 2016, they acquired Melita Plc, a leading telecommunications operator in Malta, further solidifying their presence in the industry. Additionally, Apax acquired Infovista in 2016, a company that provides network performance solutions, which is crucial for telecommunication infrastructure. These transactions highlight Apax's strategic interest in the telecommunications equipment and services sector, making them a relevant investor in this field.


14. Swisscom Ventures


Swisscom Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Zurich, Switzerland, founded in 2007. The firm focuses on investing in high-potential technology startups across various sectors, including telecommunications. Swisscom Ventures provides not only financial support but also strategic advisory services to help startups access technical infrastructure and market channels. Among their notable transactions, they have invested in Tibit Communications, which specializes in access devices for Passive Optical Networking (PON), and Actility, a leading provider of network solutions for the IoT market. These investments demonstrate Swisscom Ventures' active role in the telecommunications equipment industry, as they support companies that are innovating in network technologies and solutions.


15. 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 the telecommunications sector, Deutsche Bank has participated in several key transactions, such as providing $237 million in post-IPO equity for Rostelecom in 2013, facilitating $1.4 billion in debt financing for NBN Co in 2023, and supporting CityFibre with $1.4 billion in debt financing in 2018. These transactions highlight Deutsche Bank's active role in financing and supporting the telecommunications industry, making it a relevant investor in this sector.


16. Scottish Enterprise


Scottish Enterprise is a public entity established in 1991, focused on economic development in Scotland. It provides a range of services including funding, business development advice, and support for innovation and exports. With a size of 1001-5000 employees, it plays a crucial role in enhancing Scotland's economic landscape. Notably, Scottish Enterprise has been involved in several funding transactions with pureLiFi, a company specializing in light communication technology. They participated in multiple rounds of funding for pureLiFi, including a significant $18M Series B funding round in January 2023, aimed at developing Gigabit LiFi components for mobile devices. Their investments in pureLiFi demonstrate their commitment to fostering innovation in the telecommunication equipment sector, making them a relevant player in this industry.



Telecommunication Equipment Insights: Key Investors in Europe


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Bpifrance French Tech AccélérationParis, Île-De-France, France1-102015198
AccentureDublin, Dublin, Ireland10001+200151
European Investment Bank (EIB)Luxembourg1001-5000195899
European Innovation Council (EIC)Brussels, Brussels, Belgium201-500195857
EQT GroupStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden1001-5000199430
Liberty GlobalLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)10001+20057
AlmiStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden201-50019947
Seraphim SpaceLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-50201627
BgfLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200201153
3i Group plcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)201-50019453
Enterprise IrelandDublin, Dublin, Ireland501-1000199848
Amadeus Capital PartnersLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-5019977
ApaxLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)201-50019818
Swisscom VenturesZurich, Zurich, Switzerland11-5020074
Deutsche BankFrankfurt, Hesse, Germany10001+187032
Scottish EnterpriseGlasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)1001-5000199155


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