The specialty chemicals industry in the DACH region focuses on creating tailor-made chemical products for various applications. Companies ranging from established giants like BASF to innovative startups develop materials that enhance the performance of everyday products in sectors like construction, agriculture, and automotive. This industry prioritizes sustainability, pushing for greener alternatives while exploring new technologies and applications. As global demand for unique performance-driven chemicals rises, especially in eco-friendly solutions, DACH plays a key role in meeting these market needs. Innovations such as bio-based materials and advanced catalysts are paving the way for a future that balances efficiency and environmental responsibility.


The investors in this list vary in type, including corporate venture arms and traditional private equity firms, all focused on specialty chemicals. Based mainly in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria, these firms exhibit robust investment activity, with many founded over two decades ago. Their deal counts for 2024 range widely, indicating different strategies and sector focuses. For instance, corporate entities like BASF Venture Capital and Brenntag take significant stakes, while smaller venture capital firms also contribute to the burgeoning market. Together, they represent a strong financial backbone supporting the specialty chemicals landscape.


Top 19 Specialty Chemicals Investors in DACH


1. Brenntag

  • Website: brenntag.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
  • Founded year: 1874
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: brenntag

Brenntag SE, founded in 1874 and headquartered in Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a leading chemical distributor that specializes in connecting chemical manufacturers with users across various industries. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees, Brenntag serves approximately 195,000 customers, providing a comprehensive range of specialty and industrial chemicals along with value-added services. The company has been actively expanding its footprint in the specialty chemicals market through strategic acquisitions and joint ventures. Notable transactions include the acquisition of ALTIVIA Corporation for $125 million, which allowed Brenntag to enhance its distribution capabilities. Additionally, the acquisition of Lionheart Chemical Enterprises, a distributor serving the food and beverage industry, and the joint venture with Raj Petro Specialities Pvt. Ltd. to strengthen their presence in the Indian market, further illustrate Brenntag's commitment to the specialty chemicals sector. These initiatives position Brenntag as a key player in the specialty chemicals distribution landscape.


2. BASF Venture Capital

  • Website: basf.de
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Ludwigshafen, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany
  • Founded year: 2001
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: basf

BASF Venture Capital, founded in 2001 and based in Ludwigshafen, Germany, is the corporate venture capital arm of BASF, one of the world's largest chemical manufacturers. The firm focuses on investing in innovative companies that align with BASF's commitment to sustainability and enhancing product performance across various industries, including automotive, construction, and agriculture. Notably, BASF Venture Capital has participated in significant funding rounds for companies like FRX Innovations, which specializes in environmentally friendly flame retardant plastics, and P2 Science, which develops sustainable chemical solutions. These investments reflect BASF's strategic interest in advancing technologies within the specialty chemicals sector, further solidifying its role as a key player in this industry.


3. Sgs

  • Website: sgs.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1878
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: sgs

SGS S.A. is a leading testing, inspection, and certification company based in Geneva, Switzerland, founded in 1878. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees, SGS provides independent services to ensure product quality and compliance across various industries. The company has a global presence and offers a range of services including testing, inspection, certification, and training. In recent years, SGS has made strategic acquisitions to enhance its capabilities in specialty chemicals and related fields. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Polymer Solutions Group, which focuses on materials analysis, and TraitGenetics GmbH, specializing in molecular markers for plant breeding. These acquisitions reflect SGS's commitment to expanding its expertise in areas that are critical to the specialty chemicals sector, thereby reinforcing its position as a relevant investor in this industry.


4. Basf

  • Website: basf.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Ludwigshafen, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany
  • Founded year: 1865
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: basf

BASF SE, founded in 1865 and headquartered in Ludwigshafen, Germany, is a leading multinational chemical manufacturer that provides a diverse range of products and solutions across various industries, including agriculture, automotive, and construction. The company is dedicated to innovation and sustainability, helping its customers address environmental challenges and enhance operational efficiency. Notably, BASF has made significant investments in the specialty chemicals sector, including the acquisition of Ciba Holding in 2009, which expanded its capabilities in specialty chemicals. In 2016, BASF acquired Chemetall GmbH, a global surface treatment business, for $3.2 billion, further solidifying its position in the specialty chemicals market. Additionally, BASF's acquisition of ITWC, Inc. in 2012, specializing in cast elastomer polyurethane systems and polyester polyols, highlights its focus on specialty chemical applications. These strategic transactions underscore BASF's commitment to the specialty chemicals industry, making it a key player in this field.


5. Evonik Methionine SEA Pte Ltd


Evonik Methionine SEA Pte Ltd is a corporate investor based in Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, and is a subsidiary of Evonik Industries, a prominent player in the specialty chemicals industry. Founded in 2007, the company focuses on providing innovative solutions across various sectors, including health care, animal nutrition, and performance materials. Evonik is dedicated to sustainability and product performance, serving businesses in pharmaceuticals and agriculture. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Porocel International for $210 million, aimed at enhancing their specialty chemicals offerings, and the acquisition of Evonik Silco Materials LLC to strengthen their silica portfolio in the semiconductor sector. Additionally, their acquisition of Botanica and Alkion Biopharma further illustrates their strategy to expand their presence in active cosmetic ingredients and biotechnological active ingredients for personal care, respectively. With a commitment to research and development, Evonik aims to improve life today and tomorrow through its specialty chemicals innovations.


6. Sika

  • Website: sika.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Baar, Zug, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1910
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: sika

Sika AG is a leading specialty chemicals company based in Baar, Zug, Switzerland, founded in 1910. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees and a global presence in 103 countries, Sika specializes in developing and producing innovative solutions for the construction and industrial sectors. The company offers a diverse range of products, including concrete admixtures, waterproofing systems, and flooring solutions, catering primarily to construction companies and contractors. In recent years, Sika has made significant acquisitions to strengthen its position in the specialty chemicals market. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Cromar Building Products, a UK-based company specializing in roofing products, and Adeplast SA, a leading manufacturer of construction materials in Romania. These acquisitions aim to enhance Sika's product portfolio and distribution network, further solidifying its role as a key player in the specialty chemicals industry. Additionally, Sika's investment in Concria Oy, a Finnish startup focused on innovative concrete flooring technology, highlights its commitment to leveraging new technologies in the specialty chemicals space.


7. Possible Ventures

  • Website: possible.ventures
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
  • Founded year: 2021
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 9
  • LinkedIn: possible-vc

Possible Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 2021. The firm has a small team and has been active in making investments across various sectors, including specialty chemicals. Notably, Possible Ventures has invested in Insempra, which raised $20 million in a Series A round in May 2024, and previously in a Seed round of $15 million in May 2021. Additionally, they have invested in FLO.materials, a company that raised an undisclosed amount in a Seed round in October 2021, and Provectus Algae, which raised $11.4 million in a Seed round in December 2021. These transactions highlight Possible Ventures' engagement in innovative materials and biodesign, aligning with the specialty chemicals industry.


8. eCAPITAL ENTREPRENEURIAL PARTNERS


eCAPITAL ENTREPRENEURIAL PARTNERS is a venture capital firm based in Neunkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, founded in 1999. The firm specializes in investing in technology companies across various sectors, including cleantech, software, and cybersecurity. eCAPITAL provides early to growth stage funding and strategic support to startups, helping them navigate challenges and achieve growth. Notably, they have been involved in several transactions relevant to the specialty chemicals industry, such as amynova polymers, which raised $2,528,400 in a venture round in 2017, and Cysal, which received funding in both seed and series A rounds in 2012 and 2017, respectively. These investments highlight eCAPITAL's engagement in the specialty chemicals sector, alongside their broader technology focus.


9. Holcim

  • Website: holcim.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Zug, Zug, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1912
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 12
  • LinkedIn: lafargeholcim

Holcim is a leading building materials manufacturer based in Zug, Switzerland, specializing in innovative and sustainable construction solutions. Founded in 1912, the company has a workforce of over 10,000 employees and is committed to decarbonizing building practices and promoting circular construction. Holcim's product offerings include cement, aggregates, and ready-mix concrete, primarily serving construction companies and architects. In recent years, Holcim has expanded its portfolio through strategic acquisitions in the specialty chemicals sector. Notably, they acquired Nicem srl, a leader in ground calcium carbonate, to enhance their sustainable building solutions. They also acquired Izolbet, a key player in specialty building solutions in Poland, and the PRB Group, which specializes in technical materials for building cladding. Furthermore, their acquisition of Polymers Sealants North America strengthens their position in waterproofing and coatings, indicating a clear interest in specialty chemicals. These transactions reflect Holcim's strategy to diversify and innovate within the construction materials industry, particularly in areas that intersect with specialty chemicals.


10. Givaudan

  • Website: givaudan.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1895
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • LinkedIn: givaudan

Givaudan is a leading manufacturer specializing in flavors, fragrances, and active cosmetic ingredients, providing innovative sensory solutions to food and beverage companies, personal care brands, and household goods producers. Founded in 1895 and based in Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland, Givaudan has a workforce of over 10,000 employees. The company has made significant strides in the specialty chemicals sector through various strategic transactions. Notably, Givaudan acquired the Nutrition Division of Centroflora Group, enhancing its portfolio of natural extracts, which is crucial in the specialty chemicals market. In 2019, Givaudan acquired AMSilk, a company focused on biopolymers, further diversifying its specialty chemicals offerings. Additionally, Givaudan's investment in Arcaea, a biology beauty company, highlights its commitment to developing innovative ingredients through advanced technologies. These transactions reflect Givaudan's strategic focus on expanding its capabilities and presence in the specialty chemicals industry.


11. Thia Ventures

  • Website: thiaventures.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Plan-Les-Ouates, Geneva, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 2021
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: thia-ventures

Thia Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Plan-Les-Ouates, Geneva, Switzerland, founded in 2021. The firm specializes in early-stage investments at the intersection of food, biotech, and health, providing funding and support to innovative startups. Their portfolio includes companies like Chromologics, which raised €7.1M to commercialize a natural red food color, and Liberation Labs, which secured $20M for a precision fermentation platform aimed at alternative protein production. Additionally, Thia Ventures has invested in Allozymes and Switch Bioworks, both of which are involved in biotechnology applications that can relate to specialty chemicals. Through these investments, Thia Ventures demonstrates a commitment to transforming food systems and improving health outcomes, while also engaging with technologies that are integral to the specialty chemicals industry.


12. Bayern Kapital

  • Website: bayernkapital.de
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Landshut, Bavaria, Germany
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 27
  • LinkedIn: bayern-kapital-gmbh

Bayern Kapital is a venture capital firm based in Landshut, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 1995. The firm specializes in providing investment and growth capital to innovative high-tech startups and scale-ups in Bavaria. They support their clients with financial resources and access to a network of industry experts, helping them navigate the challenges of growth and development in various sectors, including life sciences and software. Notably, Bayern Kapital has been involved in several transactions relevant to the specialty chemicals industry, such as their investment in H.C. Carbon GmbH, which focuses on carbon-based materials. Additionally, they have participated in significant funding rounds for companies like Insempra and Tubulis, showcasing their active role in supporting innovative ventures that may intersect with specialty chemicals.


13. Capvis AG

  • Website: capvis.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Baar, Zug, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1990
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: capvis

Capvis AG is a private equity firm based in Baar, Zug, Switzerland, founded in 1990. The firm specializes in managing investments across various sectors, including healthcare and industrial technology, while also having a notable presence in the specialty chemicals industry. Capvis partners with institutional investors, such as pension funds, to provide long-term capital and strategic growth opportunities. Among its relevant transactions, Capvis acquired sia Abrasives Holding, a company involved in the production of abrasives, in 1997, highlighting its commitment to the specialty chemicals sector. Additionally, the firm executed a management buyout of a Swiss chemical company in 2004, valued at CHF 81 million, further emphasizing its engagement in this industry. These transactions reflect Capvis's strategy of enhancing the market position of its portfolio companies through effective management and consulting, particularly in the specialty chemicals domain.


14. European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF)


The European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF) is a venture capital firm based in Bonn, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, founded in 2020. It focuses on sustainable investments in the bioeconomy, providing funding and expertise to growth-stage companies that aim to transition to a circular bio-based economy. ECBF primarily operates within the EU and supports innovations across various sectors, including agriculture, food, and industrial biotechnology. Notably, ECBF has been involved in several transactions relevant to the specialty chemicals sector, such as their investment in Biosyntia, which raised €11.5 million to produce biobased vitamin B7 and other sustainable active ingredients. This investment highlights ECBF's commitment to supporting the development of bio-based chemicals. Additionally, their participation in funding rounds for companies like PeelPioneers, which focuses on circular economy solutions, further emphasizes their role in fostering sustainable chemical innovations.


15. Henkel

  • Website: henkel.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Düsseldorf, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
  • Founded year: 1876
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: henkel

Henkel AG & Co. KGaA, founded in 1876 and based in Düsseldorf, Germany, is a leading chemical manufacturer and consumer goods company. It specializes in adhesive technologies and offers a diverse range of products, including adhesives, sealants, and home care items. Henkel emphasizes innovation and sustainability in its operations. The company has made significant investments in the specialty chemicals sector, including the acquisition of Sovereign Specialty Chemicals in 2004, which bolstered its specialty chemicals portfolio. More recently, in 2022, Henkel acquired NBD Nanotechnologies, a startup focused on advanced materials, to enhance its Adhesive Technologies business unit. Additionally, the acquisition of The Bergquist Company in 2014 further solidified its position in the specialty chemicals market. These strategic transactions highlight Henkel's commitment to expanding its capabilities in specialty chemicals while serving both businesses and consumers across various industries.


16. Amcor

  • Website: amcor.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1864
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • LinkedIn: amcor

Amcor is a leading packaging manufacturer based in Zurich, Switzerland, founded in 1864. The company specializes in providing innovative and responsible packaging solutions across various industries, including food, beverage, healthcare, and personal care. With a strong commitment to sustainability, Amcor aims to make all its products recyclable or reusable by 2025. In recent years, Amcor has made strategic investments and acquisitions to enhance its position in the market. Notably, they acquired B-Pack Due, a manufacturer of film for high-performance applications, for €43 million, reflecting their focus on expanding their capabilities in flexible packaging, which is closely related to specialty chemicals. Additionally, Amcor has invested in Bloom Biorenewables Ltd and Nfinite Nanotech, both of which are involved in innovative materials that align with the specialty chemicals sector. These transactions highlight Amcor's active role in the specialty chemicals industry, particularly in the context of advanced materials and sustainable solutions.


17. Hannover Finanz

  • Website: hannoverfinanz.de
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Hanover, Lower Saxony, Germany
  • Founded year: 1979
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: hannoverfinanz

Hannover Finanz is a private equity firm based in Hanover, Lower Saxony, Germany, founded in 1979. The firm specializes in providing equity capital to medium-sized family businesses in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, focusing on sustainable growth through strategic investments and consulting services. Hannover Finanz has been involved in several notable transactions in the specialty chemicals sector, including the acquisition of OQEMA, a distributor of specialty chemicals, in 2014. They also acquired Biesterfeld, which is involved in the distribution of specialty chemicals and plastics, further emphasizing their engagement in this industry. Other relevant acquisitions include RADO Gummi and MPA Pharma GmbH, showcasing their diverse investment portfolio while maintaining a significant presence in the specialty chemicals market. Their approach helps businesses navigate challenges related to succession, growth, and restructuring, making them a valuable partner for companies in the specialty chemicals sector.


18. Deutsche Beteiligungs AG

  • Website: dbag.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany
  • Founded year: 1965
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: deutsche-beteiligungs-ag

Deutsche Beteiligungs AG (DBAG) is a private equity firm based in Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany, specializing in investments in mid-sized companies across various sectors. Founded in 1965, DBAG has over 55 years of experience in providing capital and advisory services to enhance the growth potential of its portfolio companies. While the firm primarily focuses on sectors such as telecommunications, IT services, software, and healthcare, it has also made significant investments in the specialty chemicals industry. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Pfaudler Process Solutions Group, which specializes in process solutions relevant to specialty chemicals, and Coperion, a provider of equipment and systems for processing plastics and chemicals. Additionally, DBAG's investment in Cleanpart Group, which is involved in the cleaning of components used in the semiconductor and specialty chemicals industries, further highlights their engagement in this sector. Overall, DBAG's diverse investment portfolio and specific transactions in the specialty chemicals space position them as a relevant investor in this industry.


19. bmp Ventures

  • Website: bmp.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
  • Founded year: 1997
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: bmpventures

bmp Ventures AG is a venture capital firm based in Berlin, Germany, founded in 1997. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage and growth startups across various innovative sectors, providing not only financial resources but also strategic advisory services to help startups navigate their growth journey. Notably, bmp Ventures has invested in companies such as EUCODIS Bioscience, which raised significant funding in 2007 and 2012, focusing on bioscience applications that can relate to specialty chemicals. Additionally, they have invested in intelligent fluids GmbH, which raised funds in 2013 and 2016, indicating their involvement in fluid technologies that may intersect with specialty chemicals. Their clientele primarily consists of tech companies and entrepreneurs, but their investment history shows a clear interest in sectors relevant to specialty chemicals.



Specialty Chemicals Insights: Key Investors in DACH


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
BrenntagEssen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany10001+18748
BASF Venture CapitalLudwigshafen, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany10001+20013
SgsGeneva, Geneva, Switzerland10001+18785
BasfLudwigshafen, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany10001+18651
Evonik Methionine SEA Pte LtdEssen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany11-5020070
SikaBaar, Zug, Switzerland10001+19102
Possible VenturesMunich, Bavaria, Germany1-1020219
eCAPITAL ENTREPRENEURIAL PARTNERSNeunkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany11-5019992
HolcimZug, Zug, Switzerland10001+191212
GivaudanVernier, Geneva, Switzerland10001+18950
Thia VenturesPlan-Les-Ouates, Geneva, Switzerland1-1020213
Bayern KapitalLandshut, Bavaria, Germany11-50199527
Capvis AGBaar, Zug, Switzerland11-5019900
European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF)Bonn, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany11-50202011
HenkelDüsseldorf, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany10001+18763
AmcorZurich, Zurich, Switzerland10001+18640
Hannover FinanzHanover, Lower Saxony, Germany11-5019792
Deutsche Beteiligungs AGFrankfurt, Hesse, Germany51-20019652
bmp VenturesBerlin, Berlin, Germany11-5019973


Want to find more investors focusing on the specialty chemicals industry?

If you want to find more investors that are active in the specialty chemicalsindustry, 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!