Europe's live entertainment service industry serves as a vibrant hub for events, concerts, and performances that captivate audiences. It features a spectrum of companies from large concert promoters and ticketing giants to innovative startups and technology platforms. With advancements in digital ticket sales, streaming, and hybrid events, the sector is evolving rapidly, attracting increasing investment. Particularly post-pandemic, live experiences have regained momentum, sparking renewed interest and participation. Future trends suggest a greater emphasis on immersive experiences and sustainable practices, while live entertainment continues to play an essential role in cultural expression and community engagement across the continent.


The investors highlighted include corporate giants, private equity firms, and venture capitalists based across Europe, primarily in the UK, Spain, and France. Their sizes range from small teams to large corporations, demonstrating varied expectations for growth. Founded as early as 1940, these investors have engaged actively in 2024 with a combined total of over 400 investments, showing a robust belief in the live entertainment service sector. Their diverse approach encapsulates funding in technology, ticketing, and cultural preservation, reflecting the dynamic opportunities within this growing market.


Top 18 Live Entertainment Service Investors in Europe


1. 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 telecommunications company based in London, England, that provides a range of services including 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. Notably, Liberty Global has been involved in several transactions that connect it to the live entertainment sector. For instance, they were part of the acquisition of broadcast rights for TNA IMPACT WRESTLING, which highlights their interest in live sports entertainment. Additionally, their investment in Frequency Networks, a startup focused on integrating web video with cable services, indicates a strategic move to enhance entertainment offerings. These activities suggest that Liberty Global is not only a telecommunications provider but also an active participant in the entertainment landscape, particularly in live entertainment contexts.


2. CTS EVENTIM AG & Co. KGaA

  • Website: eventim.de
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Bremen, Bremen, Germany
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: cts-eventim-ag

CTS EVENTIM AG & Co. KGaA is a corporate investor based in Bremen, Germany, founded in 1999. The company specializes in ticketing services and event promotion, providing comprehensive ticketing solutions for concerts and festivals. It serves both consumers seeking live entertainment and businesses in the event industry looking for promotional services. CTS EVENTIM operates a digital platform for ticket sales and collaborates with various promoters across multiple countries. Notably, the company has made significant acquisitions in the live entertainment sector, including a controlling stake in Vivo Concerti, a 51% shareholding in Act Entertainment, and a 60% stake in D’Alessandro e Galli. These transactions highlight CTS EVENTIM's strategy to enhance its market position and expand its international presence in the live entertainment industry, particularly in Italy and Switzerland.


3. 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 crowdfunding platform based in London, England, founded in 2010. It enables businesses, particularly startups and SMEs, to raise capital through equity investments. The platform has a strong focus on promoting diversity and inclusion within its workforce while providing investment management services to its clients. Notably, Crowdcube has facilitated significant funding for companies in the live entertainment sector, including Encore Musicians, which raised $787,782 in July 2023, and Wake The Tiger, which secured $995,946 in May 2022. Other relevant transactions include NextUp and Cloud 9 Leisure, which also highlight Crowdcube's commitment to supporting the live entertainment industry through equity crowdfunding.


4. Superstruct Iberia


Superstruct Iberia, based in Madrid, Spain, is a corporate investor specializing in live entertainment, particularly in premium live music festivals and events. Founded in 2017, the company operates under the umbrella of Superstruct Entertainment, which is backed by Providence Equity Partners and KKR Investments. Superstruct Iberia has been actively acquiring stakes in various music festivals and events to enhance their operations and cultural relevance. Notable transactions include the acquisition of a stake in the Flow Festival, a prominent Finnish music festival, and the purchase of The Music Republic, a major Spanish festival giant, for approximately 120 million euros. They also acquired Boiler Room, a well-known music platform, and a controlling stake in Y Not Festivals UK Limited, expanding their portfolio to nine major UK festivals. Additionally, their investment agreement with Elrow aims to help the electronic music promoter expand its global presence. These transactions highlight Superstruct Iberia's commitment to the live entertainment sector and its strategy to connect brand partners with passionate audiences through creative experiences.


5. Arts Council England


Arts Council England is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting creativity and culture in England. Founded in 1940, it plays a crucial role in distributing lottery funding and developing initiatives that enhance the arts sector. In 2024, Arts Council England has made significant investments in live entertainment services, including a £450,000 award to Blackpool Grand Theatre for restoration work as part of a £15 million Capital Development Plan, and £700,000 to The Yard Theatre for its expansion, which aims to double its capacity and improve facilities. Additionally, they have provided ongoing funding to Unity Theatre to support local artists and high-quality performances, ensuring the continuation of their work amidst rising costs. Their funding for Worcester Theatres' LGBTQ+ arts programme and Hull Truck Theatre's National Portfolio Organisation funding further illustrates their commitment to supporting diverse and community-focused live entertainment initiatives.


6. Kima Ventures

  • Website: kimaventures.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 50
  • LinkedIn: kima-ventures

Kima Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage startups across a wide range of sectors, backing two startups per week with financial support and mentorship. Notably, Kima Ventures has participated in significant transactions within the live entertainment space, including DICE, a London-based live music discovery and mobile ticketing platform that raised $6 million in Series A funding, and Pogoseat, which raised $2.3 million in seed funding to enhance fan experiences at sporting events. Additionally, Kima Ventures has invested in RLTY, which focuses on immersive experiences, further showcasing their engagement in the live entertainment sector.


7. 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 made significant investments in the live entertainment sector, including Sofar Sounds, which offers intimate live music experiences, and Songkick, a platform that connects fans with live music events. These investments demonstrate their engagement in the live entertainment service industry, alongside their broader investment strategy.


8. Parques Reunidos


Parques Reunidos is a corporate investor based in Madrid, Spain, founded in 1967. The company operates a diverse portfolio of over 60 leisure parks across Europe, North America, and Australia, focusing on providing memorable experiences for families and individuals. Parques Reunidos has been actively involved in the live entertainment service industry through several key acquisitions. Notable transactions include the acquisition of the German theme park Belantis in 2018, which aimed to enhance their presence in the German market, and the purchase of Kennywood Entertainment in 2007, which included several family amusement parks. Additionally, they acquired Palace Entertainment, the largest operator of water parks and family entertainment centers in the U.S., for approximately $330 million. These strategic acquisitions reflect Parques Reunidos' commitment to consolidating family entertainment venues globally and enhancing their offerings in the live entertainment sector.


9. 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 both in France and internationally through a variety of services, including direct funding, export credit insurance, and private equity investments. The institution aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation by providing coaching and partnerships to help businesses navigate growth and international expansion. Among their notable transactions, Bpifrance has invested in LiveArts, which raised $1,085,415 in a seed round in 2024, indicating their commitment to the live entertainment sector. Additionally, they have been involved in other relevant transactions such as DELIGHT and Ceetiz, which, while not exclusively focused on live entertainment, demonstrate their engagement in sectors that intersect with live experiences and events.


10. 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 (Holdings) Limited, commonly known as LDC, is a private equity firm based in London, England, founded in 1981. LDC specializes in providing growth capital and strategic support to mid-market businesses across various sectors. As part of Lloyds Banking Group, LDC focuses on helping management teams achieve their growth ambitions through investment and advisory services, fostering long-term partnerships to drive business success. Notably, LDC has made significant investments in the live entertainment sector, including the acquisition of NEC Group in 2015 for approximately $464.8 million, which operates major venues and events, and MAMA & Company in 2012 for around $11.8 million, known for its live music venues. Additionally, LDC has engaged in funding rounds for companies like Imagine Nation and Star Live, further demonstrating their commitment to the live entertainment industry.


11. 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 leading investment firm specializing in private equity, credit, secondaries, and infrastructure, managing approximately €193 billion in assets for over 1000 clients, including pension funds and institutional investors. Founded in 2005 and based in Luxembourg, CVC focuses on delivering sustainable value and growth through strategic investments. Among their notable transactions in the live entertainment sector, CVC acquired a stake in Stage Entertainment for €320 million in 2015, allowing the founder to retain a significant stake and continue as co-chair. They also invested in Merlin Entertainments, a major player in the attractions and entertainment industry, further highlighting their engagement in live entertainment services. Additionally, their involvement with Six Nations Rugby and CJ CGV showcases their diverse investment portfolio, which includes significant players in the entertainment and media landscape.


12. Endemol Shine Group

  • Website: banijay.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 5001-10000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: endemolshine

Endemol Shine Group, a subsidiary of Banijay Entertainment S.A., is a prominent television production and distribution company based in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Founded in 2015, it has rapidly grown to encompass over 130 production labels and a vast catalogue of more than 200,000 hours of programming. The company specializes in creating and distributing high-quality content across various genres for television networks and streaming platforms. Notably, in June 2023, Banijay announced its acquisition of Balich Wonder Studio, an Italian live-event company, for a speculated price of around $2.2 billion. This acquisition not only enhances Banijay's presence in the live entertainment sector but also signifies its commitment to diversifying its portfolio. Furthermore, Endemol Shine Group has been involved in several other acquisitions, such as Brainpool TV GmbH and Bunim Murray Productions, which, while primarily focused on television production, contribute to a broader understanding of entertainment that includes live events and formats.


13. Sky

  • Website: sky.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1989
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: sky

Sky Group Limited is a media and telecommunications company based in the United Kingdom, founded in 1989. It offers a wide range of services including satellite television, broadband, and mobile communications, serving both consumers and businesses across Europe. Notably, Sky has made strategic acquisitions to bolster its entertainment portfolio, such as acquiring MTV Italia from Viacom, which enhanced its digital presence in Italy. Additionally, Sky has invested in fuboTV, a streaming sports startup, participating in multiple funding rounds (Series B, C, and D) to support its growth in the sports entertainment sector. These transactions reflect Sky's commitment to expanding its live entertainment services and digital content offerings.


14. LocalGlobe

  • Website: localglobe.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2019
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 15
  • LinkedIn: localglobe

LocalGlobe is a venture capital firm based in London, England, founded in 2019. The firm partners with exceptional founders and companies at various stages of growth, from pre-seed to scale-up and public markets. LocalGlobe provides venture capital funding and investment management services, focusing on supporting startups in navigating their growth challenges. Notably, LocalGlobe has invested in several companies within the live entertainment space, including Sofar Sounds, which raised funds in 2014 to enhance live music experiences, and Songkick, a platform for concert discovery that raised funds in 2007. Additionally, they led a funding round for 100ms, a live video infrastructure startup, which indicates their interest in technologies that support live events. These transactions highlight LocalGlobe's commitment to the live entertainment sector, making them a relevant investor in this industry.


15. 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 founded in 2011, based in London, England. The firm specializes in providing growth funding and value creation support to small and mid-sized businesses across the UK and Ireland. BGF addresses the funding gap in the market through minority investments and extensive support services. Among its notable transactions, BGF led a £3 million Series A funding round for TickX, a Manchester-based search engine for events and attractions tickets, which aims to expand its operations in Europe. Additionally, BGF invested £13.75 million in Blue-i Event Technology, a firm focused on event technology, to support its growth and recruitment plans. These investments highlight BGF's active role in the live entertainment service sector, alongside its broader investment strategy.


16. The FSE Group

  • Website: thefsegroup.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Fleet, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2002
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 19
  • LinkedIn: the-fse-group

The FSE Group is a not-for-profit venture capital organization based in Fleet, England, established in 2002. It specializes in providing funding solutions, including business loans and equity investments, to high-growth SMEs in the UK. The organization collaborates with various stakeholders to deliver regional funding aimed at promoting economic prosperity. Notably, The FSE Group has been involved in several funding rounds for FIXR, a London-based event ticketing platform, participating in seed and Series A funding rounds from 2014 to 2021. This involvement highlights their engagement in the live entertainment service industry, as FIXR directly supports event ticketing and management, which is integral to live entertainment.


17. Venrex

  • Website: venrex.partners
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2002
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 11
  • LinkedIn: venrex

Venrex is a venture capital firm based in London, England, founded in 2002. The firm specializes in early-stage investments in technology-enabled businesses within consumer industries, providing both funding and strategic support to help these businesses thrive in competitive markets. Notably, Venrex has been involved in several transactions relevant to the live entertainment service industry, including their investment in Shotgun, a French startup that raised €2 million to develop its events platform and expand across Europe. They also invested in Lovetovisit, which raised over $4 million in 2024, indicating a focus on platforms that enhance the live entertainment experience. These investments highlight Venrex's commitment to supporting innovative solutions in the live entertainment sector.


18. Wpp

  • Website: wpp.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1985
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: wpp

WPP plc is a leading advertising and communications company based in London, England, founded in 1985. The company provides a wide range of services including advertising, public relations, media buying, and market research, serving businesses across various industries. Notably, WPP has made strategic acquisitions that align with the live entertainment sector, such as Prism Sport + Entertainment, which they acquired in 1999. This acquisition highlights WPP's commitment to expanding its influence in the entertainment industry. Additionally, WPP's acquisition of MRC, a company involved in media and entertainment, further emphasizes their engagement in sectors that intersect with live entertainment. Through these transactions, WPP enhances its brand visibility and connects with consumers in innovative ways, making it a significant player in the broader entertainment landscape.



Live Entertainment Service Insights: Key Investors in Europe


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Liberty GlobalLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)10001+20057
CTS EVENTIM AG & Co. KGaABremen, Bremen, Germany1001-500019991
CrowdcubeLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-20020103
Superstruct IberiaMadrid, Madrid, Spain51-20020171
Arts Council EnglandManchester, England, United Kingdom (UK)501-100019403
Kima VenturesParis, Île-De-France, France1-10201050
Index VenturesLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200199667
Parques ReunidosMadrid, Madrid, Spain10001+19670
Bpifrance French Tech AccélérationParis, Île-De-France, France1-102015198
LdcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200198115
CvcLuxembourg1001-5000200516
Endemol Shine GroupAmsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands5001-1000020152
SkyUnited Kingdom (UK)10001+19892
LocalGlobeLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-50201915
BgfLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200201153
The FSE GroupFleet, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-50200219
VenrexLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-50200211
WppLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)10001+19852


Want to find more investors focusing on the live entertainment service industry?

If you want to find more investors that are active in the live entertainment serviceindustry, 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!