The telecommunications industry in DACH is pivotal for communication and connectivity in the region. Companies range from major corporations like Deutsche Telekom to innovative startups in sectors such as mobile services, broadband, and digital solutions. With a growing focus on digital transformation and IoT, the market is evolving rapidly, emphasizing the necessity for enhanced infrastructure and services. Key developments include investments in fiber optics and 5G networks, allowing for better speeds and connectivity. As consumer demands shift towards seamless and integrated solutions, the industry is steering towards creating smarter, more connected environments.


The collection of investors within the DACH telecommunications sector includes a mix of corporate giants and venture capitalists, highlighting significant financial muscle. With headquarters in major cities like Frankfurt, Munich, and Zurich, these investors range from established firms like Deutsche Bank to innovative funds like Speedinvest. Over half of the featured investors were founded in the past three decades. The 2024 deal count shows active engagement, as some investors like Partners Group participated significantly, making strategic moves to support telecommunications growth.


Top 19 Telecommunications Investors in DACH


1. 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. Notably, Deutsche Bank has been involved in several key transactions in the telecommunications sector, such as raising $1.4 billion for NBN Co in debt financing in March 2023, $130 million for Wave in May 2015, and $500 million for Vertical Bridge Holdings in September 2014. Additionally, it facilitated $1.4 billion for CityFibre in December 2018 and $237 million for Rostelecom in post-IPO equity in October 2013. These transactions highlight Deutsche Bank's active role in supporting the telecommunications industry.


2. Swisscom Ventures


Swisscom Ventures is a Zurich-based venture capital firm founded in 2007, specializing in high-potential technology startups. The firm not only provides financial support but also strategic advisory services, helping startups access technical infrastructure and market channels. Swisscom Ventures operates across various technology sectors, including AI and Fintech, but has a notable focus on telecommunications. They have participated in several relevant transactions, such as Actility, a leading provider of IoT network solutions, which raised significant funding rounds with Swisscom's involvement. Additionally, they invested in Tibit Communications, which is working on advanced telecommunications technology, further emphasizing their active role in the telecommunications space. Their investments reflect a commitment to empowering innovative companies within the telecommunications industry.


3. Deutsche Telekom

  • Website: telekom.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Bonn, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: telekom

Deutsche Telekom AG, founded in 1995 and headquartered in Bonn, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a prominent telecommunications company that offers a comprehensive range of services, including mobile communications, fixed-network, broadband, and ICT solutions for both consumers and businesses. With operations in over 50 countries, Deutsche Telekom focuses on delivering integrated digital solutions to enhance connectivity and support digital transformation. The company has been involved in several key transactions that underscore its commitment to the telecommunications sector. Notably, in 2014, Deutsche Telekom acquired T-Mobile for approximately $1.13 billion, significantly expanding its mobile service offerings. In 2013, it announced the acquisition of GTS Central Europe for €546 million, aimed at bolstering its fixed-line capabilities and expanding its telecommunications services in Central Europe. More recently, Deutsche Telekom has also invested in technology firms such as Teridion Technologies, where it acquired a minority stake, and participated in funding rounds for companies like 1NCE, further demonstrating its active role in the telecommunications landscape.


4. Partners Group

  • Website: partnersgroup.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Baar, Zug, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1996
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 19
  • LinkedIn: partners-group

Partners Group Holding AG is a prominent investment management firm based in Baar, Zug, Switzerland, specializing in private equity, private infrastructure, private real estate, and private debt. Founded in 1996, the firm manages over USD 149 billion in assets and is recognized for its innovative investment strategies and commitment to sustainability. In the telecommunications sector, Partners Group has made significant investments, including a 75% equity stake in EOLO, Italy's largest fixed wireless access broadband provider, valued at over €1.2 billion. They also acquired Axia NetMedia, a Canadian fibre business, marking their second investment in the fibre sector within a year. Furthermore, Partners Group provided equity for the Seaborn Networks subsea cable project, which connects New York and Sao Paulo, showcasing their involvement in critical telecommunications infrastructure. These transactions reflect Partners Group's strategic focus on enhancing connectivity and supporting the growth of telecommunications services globally.


5. Dtcp


DTCP is a venture capital firm based in Hamburg, Germany, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in Growth Equity and Infrastructure investments, focusing on transformative technology leaders and digital infrastructure to support their growth and accelerate digital transformation. DTCP has been involved in several notable transactions in the telecommunications sector, including investments in Cellwize, an Israeli startup specializing in mobile network automation, and Kumu Networks, which raised $25 million in a Series C funding round led by Cisco and included participation from major telecommunications players like Verizon and Deutsche Telekom. These investments highlight DTCP's engagement with companies that are pivotal in advancing telecommunications technology.


6. Deg

  • Website: deginvest.de
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Neunkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
  • Founded year: 1962
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 17
  • LinkedIn: deg

DEG – Deutsche Investitions- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft mbH is a public entity that operates as a development finance institution, founded in 1962 and based in Neunkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. DEG provides long-term financing and advisory services to private enterprises in developing and emerging markets, with a focus on sustainable development and job creation. The institution supports businesses across various sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, and infrastructure. Notably, DEG has been involved in significant telecommunications-related transactions, such as its participation in a funding round for Africa Mobile Networks, which aims to enhance connectivity in rural Africa with a $36 million investment. Additionally, DEG contributed to the $840 million debt financing for Liquid Intelligent Technologies, a company focused on improving telecommunications infrastructure in Africa. These investments highlight DEG's commitment to fostering growth in the telecommunications sector, particularly in regions that require enhanced connectivity.


7. Swisscom

  • Website: swisscom.ch
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Ittigen, Bern, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1998
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: swisscom

Swisscom AG is a leading telecommunications provider based in Ittigen, Bern, Switzerland, founded in 1998. The company offers a comprehensive range of services, including mobile communication, broadband internet, and television, catering to both individual consumers and businesses. Swisscom has been actively expanding its footprint in the telecommunications industry through strategic acquisitions. Notably, in 2024, Swisscom acquired Vodafone Italia, enhancing its position in the mobile communications market. Other significant transactions include the acquisition of Antenna Hungaria in 2005, which bolstered their broadcasting capabilities, and the acquisition of Publigroupe S.A. in 2014, which expanded their media and advertising services. These transactions reflect Swisscom's commitment to enhancing its telecommunications offerings and maintaining a competitive edge in the digital landscape.


8. 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 is a private equity firm based in Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany, founded in 1965. The firm specializes in investments in mid-sized companies and provides capital and advisory services to enhance the growth potential of its portfolio companies. With over 55 years of experience, DBAG operates a successful fund advisory business, focusing on sectors such as telecommunications, IT services, software, and healthcare. Notably, they have been involved in several significant transactions in the telecommunications sector, including the acquisition of a majority stake in Netzkontor Nord, a telecommunications service provider, in January 2018. Additionally, they have participated in funding rounds for companies like inexio and DNS:Net, further solidifying their presence in the telecommunications industry.


9. Speedinvest

  • Website: speedinvest.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Vienna, Vienna, Austria
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 45
  • LinkedIn: speedinvest

Speedinvest is a venture capital firm based in Vienna, Austria, founded in 2011. The firm specializes in funding early-stage tech startups across Europe, providing both capital and hands-on support to help these startups scale their operations. Speedinvest's investment focus spans various technology sectors, including Deep Tech, Fintech, and SaaS. Notably, they have made several investments in the telecommunications sector, particularly in Sipwise, a company that has raised multiple rounds of funding from Speedinvest, including Seed, Series A, and later rounds totaling over $2 million. This involvement in Sipwise highlights Speedinvest's engagement in the telecommunications industry, showcasing their ability to support companies that provide telecommunications solutions and services.


10. Momenta

  • Website: momenta.one
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Engelberg, Obwalden, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 2012
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 7
  • LinkedIn: momentapartners

Momenta is a venture capital firm based in Engelberg, Obwalden, Switzerland, founded in 2012. The firm specializes in industrial impact and digital transformation, providing strategic investments and advisory services to Fortune 500 companies and innovative startups across various sectors, including energy, manufacturing, smart spaces, and supply chain. Notably, Momenta has been involved in several transactions relevant to telecommunications, such as its investment in Thingstream, a Zurich-based provider of IoT Connectivity-as-a-Service. This investment highlights Momenta's commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and driving sustainability through innovative connectivity solutions. Additionally, Momenta has participated in seed rounds for companies like Expeto and Axino Solutions, which may also have implications in the telecommunications space, further solidifying its position as a relevant investor in this industry.


11. Wellington Partners


Wellington Partners is a venture capital firm based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 1998. The firm specializes in life sciences, providing capital and strategic support to early- and growth-stage companies in sectors such as therapeutics and medical devices. However, Wellington Partners has also made significant investments in the telecommunications sector, notably in Truphone, a VOIP company, where they participated in both Series A and Series B funding rounds, raising substantial amounts to support the company's growth. Additionally, they invested in Garderos Software Innovations and WLAN AG, both of which are involved in technology solutions that relate to telecommunications. This diverse investment strategy showcases their ability to identify and support innovative startups across various sectors, including telecommunications.


12. Earlybird Venture Capital


Earlybird Venture Capital is a venture capital firm based in Germany, founded in 1997. The firm specializes in investing in European technology innovators, providing financial resources and strategic support to early-stage companies. Earlybird focuses on sectors such as digital health and deep tech, but they have also made significant investments in telecommunications-related companies. Notably, they invested in NFON, a company that provides cloud-based communication solutions, indicating their engagement in the telecommunications space. Their investment history includes various funding rounds, such as a Series C round for Esmertec, which also highlights their active role in supporting technology-driven companies. Overall, Earlybird Venture Capital is dedicated to nurturing startups through funding and mentorship, helping them navigate growth challenges across multiple sectors, including telecommunications.


13. Target Partners


Target Partners is a venture capital firm based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 1999. The firm specializes in early-stage technology investments, providing capital and strategic support to innovative startups in the tech sector. Their commitment to long-term partnerships with entrepreneurs distinguishes them in the investment landscape. Among their notable transactions, Target Partners led a €3.5 million Series A funding round for Sicoya GmbH, a company focused on product development for telecommunications. They also participated in funding rounds for WLAN AG, which raised significant capital for wireless networking solutions, and Cube Optics, which develops optical networking products. These investments highlight Target Partners' engagement in the telecommunications sector, showcasing their ability to support companies that contribute to advancements in this industry.


14. Neuhaus Partners GmbH


Neuhaus Partners GmbH is a venture capital firm based in Hamburg, Germany, founded in 1998. The firm specializes in investing in high-tech companies, providing capital, coaching, and networking opportunities to startups and young entrepreneurs. Neuhaus Partners has been involved in several notable transactions, including investments in telecommunications-related companies such as Cellity, which raised funds in a Series A round in 2007, and handy.de Vertriebs GmbH, which raised an undisclosed amount in a venture round in 2000. These investments highlight their engagement in the telecommunications sector, alongside their broader focus on high-tech industries.


15. Sunrise

  • Website: sunrise.ch
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Opfikon, Zurich, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 2021
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: sunrise-upc-gmbh

Sunrise LLC is a telecommunications provider based in Opfikon, Zurich, Switzerland, founded in 2021. The company offers a comprehensive range of services, including mobile, internet, TV, and landline phone services, catering to both individual consumers and businesses. Sunrise is committed to providing reliable connectivity and entertainment options, with various subscription plans and devices available through its website. Notably, Sunrise has been involved in several key acquisitions that highlight its active role in the telecommunications sector. In 2019, Sunrise acquired UPC Cablecom GmbH, enhancing its service offerings and market reach. Earlier, in 2013, Sunrise acquired Lebara GmbH, known for its low-cost mobile prepaid services, and Ortel Mobile, which further strengthened its presence in the prepaid mobile market. These strategic acquisitions reflect Sunrise's dedication to expanding its telecommunications capabilities and solidifying its position in the industry.


16. BayBG Venture Capital

  • Website: baybg-vc.de
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Hirschbach, Bavaria, Germany
  • Founded year: 1972
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: baybg-venture-capital

BayBG Bayerische Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH is a venture capital firm based in Hirschbach, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 1972. The firm specializes in investing in innovative startups, particularly in Bavaria, and provides venture capital and advisory services to help these startups grow and scale their operations. BayBG has a strong focus on technology companies, leveraging its extensive network and experience to support portfolio companies in navigating market challenges. Notably, BayBG has invested in NFON, a cloud-based telecommunications provider, in multiple funding rounds, highlighting their engagement in the telecommunications sector. Additionally, they have invested in other technology-related companies, such as HiproCall and Weiss IT Solutions, further demonstrating their commitment to supporting innovation in the telecommunications and technology landscape.


17. Siemens

  • Website: siemens.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
  • Founded year: 1847
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 11
  • LinkedIn: siemens

Siemens AG is a leading technology conglomerate based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, specializing in industrial automation, energy solutions, rail transport, and health technology. Founded in 1847, Siemens operates globally with approximately 320,000 employees and significant revenue generation. As an investor, Siemens has made notable acquisitions in the telecommunications sector, including the acquisition of Garderos Software Innovations GmbH, a company focused on operational support systems for telecommunications, which enhances Siemens' capabilities in this area. Additionally, Siemens Energy's acquisition of the eHouse manufacturing division of Integrated Electrical Services, Inc. highlights its interest in communications services, further solidifying its role in the telecommunications landscape. Overall, Siemens' diverse portfolio and strategic investments reflect its commitment to innovation and efficiency across various sectors, including telecommunications.


18. Cobatest

  • Website: commerzbank.de
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany
  • Founded year: 1870
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 6
  • LinkedIn: cobatest

Cobatest, a venture capital investor based in Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany, operates under the umbrella of Commerzbank AG, a public financial institution founded in 1870. The firm provides a wide range of banking services, including investment management. Cobatest has been involved in notable transactions within the telecommunications sector, such as the $1 billion debt financing for Reliance Jio, a major telecommunications provider in India, and participation in a $500 million financing for Seaborn Networks, which is focused on subsea cable infrastructure connecting New York and Sao Paulo. These investments highlight Cobatest's commitment to supporting telecommunications infrastructure and innovation.


19. Bosch

  • Website: bosch.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Birenbach, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
  • Founded year: 1886
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: bosch

Robert Bosch GmbH is a multinational engineering and technology company based in Birenbach, Baden-Württemberg, Germany. Founded in 1886, Bosch offers a diverse range of products and services across mobility, consumer goods, industrial technology, and energy solutions. The company is committed to sustainability and enhancing quality of life through its innovative technology solutions. In the telecommunications context, Bosch has made significant investments, including the acquisition of Telex Communications, which specializes in professional audio and communication equipment, for $420 million in 2006. This acquisition highlights Bosch's interest in enhancing its capabilities in communication technologies. Furthermore, Bosch participated in a Series D funding round for PubNub, a real-time Data Stream Network company, alongside other notable investors like Cisco Investments. This investment reflects Bosch's strategy to engage with emerging technologies in telecommunications, particularly in data streaming and communication solutions. Overall, Bosch's activities in the telecommunications sector, alongside its broader technological focus, position it as a relevant investor in this field.



Telecommunications Insights: Key Investors in DACH


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Deutsche BankFrankfurt, Hesse, Germany10001+187032
Swisscom VenturesZurich, Zurich, Switzerland11-5020074
Deutsche TelekomBonn, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany10001+19951
Partners GroupBaar, Zug, Switzerland1001-5000199619
DtcpHamburg, Hamburg, Germany51-20020156
DegNeunkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany501-1000196217
SwisscomIttigen, Bern, Switzerland10001+19982
Deutsche Beteiligungs AGFrankfurt, Hesse, Germany51-20019652
SpeedinvestVienna, Vienna, Austria51-200201145
MomentaEngelberg, Obwalden, Switzerland11-5020127
Wellington PartnersMunich, Bavaria, Germany11-5019989
Earlybird Venture CapitalGermany51-200199729
Target PartnersMunich, Bavaria, Germany11-5019990
Neuhaus Partners GmbHHamburg, Hamburg, Germany1-1019980
SunriseOpfikon, Zurich, Switzerland1001-500020211
BayBG Venture CapitalHirschbach, Bavaria, Germany51-20019723
SiemensMunich, Bavaria, Germany10001+184711
CobatestFrankfurt, Hesse, Germany1-1018706
BoschBirenbach, Baden-Württemberg, Germany10001+18865


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