The telecommunications software industry in Benelux is dynamic and thriving. It comprises firms that create software solutions enhancing network capabilities, improving data management, and optimizing communication services. Companies range from established giants to innovative startups, each contributing cutting-edge solutions that address evolving customer needs. Notably, 5G rollout and IoT have skyrocketed demand for advanced software, pushing the industry toward greater automation and artificial intelligence integration. With increasing emphasis on efficiency and connectivity, the outlook remains optimistic as these companies continuously adapt to technological advancements and market changes, positioning themselves for sustained growth.


The current list features an array of investors including private equity firms, corporate ventures, and venture capitalists, primarily active from 2003 to 2025. Hailing from key locations such as Luxembourg, Amsterdam, and The Hague, these firms vary in size from small teams to large corporations. Noteworthy is the engagement in 2024, showcasing their strong interest as they made numerous investments across the telecommunications software sector. Key players like CVC Capital Partners, with extensive deal activity, highlight the growing financial appetite for this promising industry.


Top 17 Telecommunications Software Investors in Benelux


1. European Investment Bank (EIB)


The European Investment Bank (EIB) is a public entity based in Luxembourg, founded in 1958, that provides financial services including loans, equity investments, guarantees, and advisory services to support sustainable projects across various sectors. In 2024, the EIB has been involved in 99 investments, showcasing its active role in financing initiatives that promote growth and job creation. Notably, the EIB has engaged in significant transactions within the telecommunications sector, including a $584 million post-IPO debt raise for Nokia in 2018, a $455.2 million funding deal with Ericsson in December 2023, and a $293 million post-IPO debt raise for Ericsson in June 2018. Additionally, the EIB signed a €315 million agreement with Cellnex Telecom to finance the expansion of 5G infrastructure across Europe in July 2023, and it provided $534 million in post-IPO debt for Orange in February 2023. These transactions highlight the EIB's commitment to supporting the telecommunications industry, particularly in areas related to software and infrastructure development.


2. Main Capital Partners

  • Website: main.nl
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: The Hague, South Holland, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 2003
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 16
  • LinkedIn: main-capital-partners-bv

Main Capital Partners is a private equity investment firm based in The Hague, South Holland, Netherlands, founded in 2003. The firm specializes in enterprise software and provides strategic guidance and investment to software businesses across various sectors, including healthcare, finance, and potentially telecommunications. In 2023, they made significant investments, including a majority stake in RailCube, a leading railway ERP software provider, which highlights their interest in software solutions that may have telecommunications applications. Additionally, their acquisition of Patchmanager, focused on infrastructure management software, further demonstrates their engagement in sectors that could overlap with telecommunications. Overall, Main Capital Partners leverages its expertise to help software companies achieve growth and innovation in competitive markets.


3. 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 investment firm founded in 2005, specializing in private equity, credit, secondaries, and infrastructure. With approximately €193 billion in assets under management for over 1000 clients, including pension funds and institutional investors, CVC focuses on delivering sustainable value and growth through strategic investments. In the telecommunications sector, CVC has made significant acquisitions, including Hong Kong Broadband Network, which they acquired for approximately HK$5 billion, and Wireless Logic, a leading M2M managed services platform, showcasing their interest in telecommunications software. They also acquired a stake in Arteria Networks, a fibre operator, further emphasizing their commitment to the B2B segment of the telecom market. These transactions reflect CVC's strategic approach to investing in companies that are well-positioned for growth in the telecommunications industry.


4. 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 telecommunications software context, including multiple rounds of funding for BridgeWave Communications, a supplier of 4G millimeter wave backhaul solutions. Their investments in BridgeWave, which supports network deployments for 4G Mobile and LTE networks, highlight their engagement in the telecommunications software industry, reinforcing their relevance in this sector.


5. Fortino Capital


Fortino Capital is a venture capital and growth equity firm based in Antwerp, Flanders, Belgium, founded in 2013. The firm specializes in investing in B2B software companies, providing both funding and strategic support to help these businesses grow and scale effectively. Fortino Capital has been involved in several notable transactions in the telecommunications sector, including the acquisition of Melita Plc, a prominent telecommunications operator in Malta, and Cabovisão, which further showcases their commitment to the telecommunications industry. Additionally, their investment in Zaion, a SaaS developer focused on voice customer relationship processing solutions, highlights their interest in telecommunications software. Overall, Fortino Capital's focus on B2B software and their active participation in telecommunications-related investments position them as a relevant player in the telecommunications software investment landscape.


6. Mangrove Capital Partners


Mangrove Capital Partners is a venture capital firm based in Luxembourg, founded in 2000, that specializes in early-stage investments in innovative technology companies. With a focus on empowering startups in Europe and Israel, they provide financial support and strategic guidance to entrepreneurs. Notably, Mangrove has been involved in significant transactions within the telecommunications software space, including investments in Skype, a pioneer in internet communication, and Infinity Wireless, which focuses on enhancing product development and innovation in telecommunications services. Their investment in SQream Technologies also highlights their interest in technology that can impact telecommunications through cloud innovation. Overall, Mangrove Capital Partners has a diverse portfolio that includes key players in the telecommunications software industry, reflecting their capability and interest in this sector.


7. 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 multiple sectors, including Consumer, Healthcare, Life Sciences, Smart Industries, and Sustainable Cities. Gimv provides investment management and strategic support to help businesses grow sustainably. Among their notable transactions, they invested in Riaktr (formerly Real Impact Analytics), which raised €12 million in Series A funding to expand its analytics capabilities, challenging major players in the industry. Additionally, they have invested in CoreOptics, which raised significant funding for its optical networking solutions, further demonstrating their engagement in the telecommunications software space. Their clientele primarily consists of entrepreneurial companies seeking capital and expertise to navigate market challenges.


8. Adara Ventures

  • Website: adara.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Luxembourg
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: adara-venture-partners

Adara Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Luxembourg, founded in 2005, that specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies across Europe. The firm partners with visionary founders in various sectors, including cybersecurity, digital health, and data applications, providing them with essential resources and strategic support to scale their businesses effectively. Notably, Adara Ventures has made significant investments in the telecommunications sector, particularly in Cambridge Broadband Networks, which has raised multiple rounds of funding, including a Series E round of $22.5 million in January 2007 and a $7.5 million venture round in February 2009. These transactions highlight Adara's active role in supporting companies that contribute to telecommunications software and infrastructure, reinforcing their relevance in this industry.


9. 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. With over 10,000 employees, KPN offers a wide range of services including fixed and mobile telephony, internet, and television, catering to both consumers and businesses. The company is known for its reliable network and comprehensive service offerings. KPN has made several strategic acquisitions to enhance its telecommunications capabilities, including the acquisition of iBasis in 2009, RoutIT in 2016, and Solcon in 2017. These acquisitions have allowed KPN to expand its service portfolio and strengthen its market position. Notably, KPN also participated in a $25 million funding round for Actility in 2015, a company focused on IoT network solutions, further demonstrating its engagement in the telecommunications software space.


10. Newion


Newion Partners is a venture capital firm based in Amsterdam, Netherlands, founded in 2000. They specialize in investing in early-stage technology companies, particularly in the business software sector. Newion provides capital, expertise, and support to help these companies scale and achieve market leadership, focusing on businesses located in North/West Europe. Notable transactions include their investments in 24i, which raised $2 million in 2015, and Service2Media, which raised $10 million in 2011. Both companies operate in areas that intersect with telecommunications, particularly in media and mobile services. In 2024, Newion participated in a Series B funding round for Parloa, a Berlin-based enterprise software provider, which raised €20 million. This investment reflects their commitment to supporting innovative software solutions that may have applications in telecommunications.


11. 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 focuses on 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 made significant investments in the telecommunications software sector, including a Series B investment in Cujo AI, which develops AI-driven services for network operators, and a Series D investment in Actility, a leading provider of IoT network solutions. Additionally, they co-led a Series B funding round for CloudTalk, further emphasizing their involvement in telecommunications-related software solutions. These transactions highlight KPN Ventures' strategic focus on enhancing telecommunications capabilities through innovative technology investments.


12. SES Satellites

  • Website: ses.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Betzdorf, Grevenmacher, Luxembourg
  • Founded year: 1985
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: ses

SES Satellites, founded in 1985 and based in Betzdorf, Luxembourg, is a leading satellite telecommunications provider that operates a fleet of over 70 satellites in geostationary and medium Earth orbits. The company offers a variety of services, including video broadcast and data connectivity solutions, catering to sectors such as broadcasting, government, and maritime. In recent years, SES has made significant investments and acquisitions to strengthen its position in the telecommunications software industry. Notably, SES announced its acquisition of U.S.-based Intelsat for $3.1 billion, which is expected to close in 2025, creating the world's largest satellite services provider. Additionally, SES led a £29.2 million Series B investment in Isotropic Systems, which focuses on developing innovative satellite technology. These transactions highlight SES's active role in enhancing telecommunications capabilities and its commitment to advancing the industry.


13. Prosus Group

  • Website: prosus.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 2019
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 21
  • LinkedIn: prosus-group

Prosus Group is a global technology investor and operator based in Amsterdam, Netherlands, founded in 2019. The firm focuses on enhancing everyday life through technology across various sectors, including online classifieds, food delivery, payments, and education technology. In 2024, Prosus has been particularly active, with 21 investments, including significant funding rounds for companies like Neara, which raised $31 million in Series C and $15.25 million in Series B extension, both aimed at expanding their digital twin technology relevant to telecommunications. Additionally, Prosus invested $14 million in FiberSense, a company likely involved in telecommunications software solutions. These transactions highlight Prosus's commitment to fostering innovation in the telecommunications software industry while also supporting local entrepreneurs and sustainable business practices.


14. Exor N.V.

  • Website: exor.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 2009
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 26
  • LinkedIn: exor_2

Exor N.V. is a holding company based in Amsterdam, Netherlands, founded in 2009. It operates across various sectors, including automotive, healthcare, and media, and manages a diverse portfolio of companies such as Ferrari, Stellantis, and Philips. Exor focuses on enhancing value through strategic investments and operational support. In the telecommunications software context, Exor has been involved in significant transactions, particularly with Via, a startup that raised substantial funding rounds, including $110 million in February 2023 and $200 million in March 2020. Via specializes in algorithms for shared and on-demand transportation, which integrates telecommunications software for data-driven mobility solutions. This involvement highlights Exor's interest in innovative technologies that leverage telecommunications capabilities, making it a relevant player in the telecommunications software industry.


15. 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, 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 actively involved in the telecommunications sector, particularly through debt financing transactions. Notable investments include euNetworks Group, which raised over $1.3 billion in debt financing, and Gigaclear, which secured $251 million. Additionally, ABN AMRO participated in the financing of Glasfaser Nordwest's expansion of its fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) network in Germany, a project aimed at rolling out fiber to 1.5 million customers by 2030. These transactions highlight ABN AMRO's commitment to supporting the telecommunications infrastructure, making it a relevant player in the telecommunications software investment landscape.


16. Capricorn Partners


Capricorn Partners is a venture capital firm based in Leuven, Flanders, Belgium, founded in 1993. The firm specializes in venture capital, growth capital, and quoted equity funds, focusing on innovative companies across various sectors, including digital technologies, health, and clean technologies. Capricorn Partners aims to create both financial returns and strategic value for its clients through responsible investing. Notable transactions include investments in CoreOptics, which raised $25 million in 2008 for its networking solutions, and Innovium, a provider of networking solutions for data centers that achieved unicorn status with $170 million in funding in 2020. These investments highlight Capricorn Partners' engagement in the telecommunications software space, particularly in networking technologies that are essential for modern telecommunications infrastructure.


17. 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, and have a strong focus on enhancing business growth through readiness programs for venture capital. Among their notable transactions, BOM has invested in EFFECT Photonics, which raised funds in Series A rounds in 2015 and 2016, focusing on photonic technology relevant to telecommunications. Additionally, they invested in Antennex, which raised funds in a Seed Round in 2024, potentially indicating a focus on telecommunications-related innovations. However, their investment portfolio also includes companies like Methods2Business, which may not be directly related to telecommunications software, suggesting a diverse investment strategy.



Telecommunications Software Insights: Key Investors in Benelux


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
European Investment Bank (EIB)Luxembourg1001-5000195899
Main Capital PartnersThe Hague, South Holland, Netherlands51-200200316
CvcLuxembourg1001-5000200516
Cipio PartnersLuxembourg11-5020032
Fortino CapitalAntwerp, Flanders, Belgium11-5020139
Mangrove Capital PartnersLuxembourg11-5020005
GimvAntwerp, Flanders, Belgium51-20019808
Adara VenturesLuxembourg11-5020055
KpnRotterdam, South Holland, Netherlands10001+19892
NewionAmsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands11-5020006
KPN VenturesRotterdam, South Holland, Netherlands1-1020153
SES SatellitesBetzdorf, Grevenmacher, Luxembourg1001-500019852
Prosus GroupAmsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands10001+201921
Exor N.V.Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands11-50200926
ABN AMRO Clearing BankAmsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands501-1000198219
Capricorn PartnersLeuven, Flanders, Belgium11-5019935
Brabantse Ontwikkelings Maatschappij (BOM)Tilburg, North Brabant, Netherlands51-200198310


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