The private equity industry in Germany plays a significant role in fostering economic growth and innovation. Firms invest in both established and emerging companies, providing the necessary capital for expansion, restructuring, and acquisition. With a growing focus on sustainability, many of these firms are incorporating environmental and social factors into their investment strategies. The market is experiencing a shift toward alternative investments, driven by increasing interest from institutional investors seeking stable returns. This evolution signifies a movement towards responsible investing, which is likely to shape the future of private equity in the region.

Germany's private equity firms vary in size and specialization. They range from small teams with niche focuses to larger organizations managing significant assets. Many of these firms were founded in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, indicating a dynamic evolution of the industry. They boast headquarters in major cities across Germany, such as Munich and Berlin. Their specialties span technology, healthcare, and infrastructure, showcasing a mix of traditional and modern investment approaches to drive growth.

Read on to discover details on the top private equity firms in Germany.

Top 23 Private Equity Firms Companies in Germany

1. Golding Capital Partners

• Website: goldingcapital.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 86%, Luxembourg 11%, Other 2%
• Latest funding: November 2019
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: golding-capital-partners

Golding Capital Partners, founded in 2000 and based in Flensburg, Germany, is an investment management firm that specializes in alternative investments. The company offers a range of services, including private equity, private credit, infrastructure, and impact investing, primarily targeting institutional investors such as insurance companies and pension funds. With a dedicated team of over 200 professionals, Golding Capital Partners manages approximately €14.5 billion in assets. The firm emphasizes sustainable investment strategies, aiming to provide long-term attractive returns while addressing the social and environmental impacts of their investments. Golding has built a reputation for its commitment to responsible investing, integrating ESG criteria into its investment processes and actively engaging in impact investing initiatives. Their focus on creating positive societal outcomes through investments positions them as a notable player in the private equity industry.

2. Hannover Finanz

• Website: hannoverfinanz.de
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Hanover, Lower Saxony, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 1979
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: hannoverfinanz

Hannover Finanz is a family-owned private equity firm based in Hanover, Germany, established in 1979. The firm specializes in providing equity capital to medium-sized family businesses across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. With a focus on sustainable growth, Hannover Finanz offers strategic investments and consulting services to help businesses navigate challenges such as succession, growth, and restructuring. The firm has successfully supported over 250 companies, managing a portfolio that includes around 35 firms with a combined turnover exceeding 4 billion euros and employing over 15,000 individuals. Hannover Finanz operates with an evergreen fund structure, allowing for investments to be held for as long as necessary to achieve the desired outcomes. Their investment strategy targets companies with strong market positions and growth potential, particularly in sectors like IT services, medical technology, and advanced industrials. The firm is also committed to ESG principles, recognizing the importance of sustainable business practices.

3. AUCTUS Capital Partners AG

• Website: auctus.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 67%, Italy 28%, Poland 6%
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: auctus-management-gmbh

AUCTUS Capital Partners AG, based in Flensburg, Germany, is a private equity firm founded in 2001. The firm focuses on investing in medium-sized enterprises throughout Europe, providing growth capital and acquiring majority stakes to strengthen the market positions of its portfolio companies. AUCTUS operates through strategic partnerships and has a notable track record of creating market leaders in various sectors, including construction, consumer goods, and renewable energy. With a team of around 72 employees, AUCTUS has completed over 415 majority investments and currently manages 50 active platform companies. Their portfolio companies collectively achieve an annual revenue of approximately 3 billion euros, reflecting AUCTUS's commitment to sustainable growth and value creation. The firm is recognized for its buy-and-build strategy, which has led to significant expansion and success in the medium-sized business segment across Europe.

4. capiton AG

• Website: capiton.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: capiton

capiton AG, founded in 2004 and based in Berlin, is a private equity firm that specializes in investing in medium-sized companies across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. The firm primarily targets sectors such as High-Tech Industrials and Healthcare & Lifescience, where they provide not only capital but also strategic guidance to help businesses achieve their growth objectives. capiton AG has a notable history, having managed over 70 investments and currently overseeing a fund volume of approximately 1.8 billion euros. Their investment strategies include management buy-outs, growth financing, and restructuring support, which are tailored to meet the specific needs of their portfolio companies. The firm prides itself on its personalized approach, ensuring that they understand the vision of the businesses they invest in and work closely with management teams to realize their goals.

5. Family Trust

• Website: familytrust.de
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: family-trust-investor-fti-gmbh

Family Trust is a family-owned investment firm based in Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in private equity investments in medium-sized companies, providing both capital and operational support to help these businesses grow. Family Trust works with institutional investors, family offices, and wealthy individuals who seek to invest in profitable enterprises across various sectors. Their investment strategy is particularly focused on acquiring majority stakes in profitable companies with established market positions and potential for growth. They actively engage with management teams to identify and implement growth strategies, including succession planning and buy-and-build concepts. Family Trust has successfully acquired several companies, such as Tiefenbach Control Systems GmbH and Urban Apes GmbH, demonstrating their commitment to supporting the long-term development of their portfolio companies.

6. DUBAG Group

• Website: dubag.eu
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: dubag-group

DUBAG Group, founded in 2009 and based in Munich, Germany, is an investment advisory firm that specializes in private equity. The firm focuses on acquiring and actively developing companies in special situations, providing both financial resources and strategic support to foster sustainable growth. With a dedicated team of professionals, DUBAG has built a reputation for its pragmatic approach and expertise in managing complex transactions, particularly corporate carve-outs. Their portfolio includes companies across various industries, and they have successfully completed over 75 transactions, demonstrating their capability in navigating challenging market conditions. DUBAG Group is committed to enhancing the operational performance of its portfolio companies while maintaining a strong focus on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles.

7. YIELCO Investments

• Website: yielco.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 86%, Switzerland 11%, Spain 4%
• Latest funding: $902.0M, May 2021
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: yielco-investments-ag

YIELCO Investments, based in Munich, Germany, is a private investment firm that specializes in private equity, private debt, and infrastructure investments. Established in 2011, the firm has built a reputation for providing tailored investment solutions aimed at institutional investors. YIELCO focuses on generating stable and predictable returns in complex private markets, utilizing various fund structures and advisory services. The firm operates with a strong emphasis on responsible investing, integrating ESG criteria into their investment processes. With a team of experienced professionals, YIELCO has successfully managed to grow its assets under service to over EUR 10 billion, reflecting its active role in the private equity landscape. The firm has also expanded its operations internationally, with offices in Switzerland and Spain, further solidifying its presence in the European investment market.

8. Deutsche Finance Group

• Website: deutsche-finance-group.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: deutsche-finance-group

Deutsche Finance Group, founded in 2005 and based in Flensburg, Germany, is an investment management firm that specializes in private equity, real estate, and infrastructure investments. With a workforce of around 91 employees, the firm has established itself as a significant player in the investment sector. Deutsche Finance Group provides institutional and private investors with access to exclusive investment opportunities, focusing on generating attractive returns while effectively managing market risks. Their investment platform is designed to identify and structure off-market investments, allowing clients to capitalize on unique market opportunities. The firm has positioned itself as a prominent investor in the U.S. real estate market, managing substantial assets and engaging in high-profile projects, such as the acquisition of iconic properties like the Transamerica Pyramid in San Francisco. Their commitment to responsible investing and their strategic partnerships further enhance their reputation in the investment community.

9. Munich Private Equity Group

• Website: mpe.ag
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Oberhaching, Bavaria, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: munich-private-equity

Munich Private Equity Group (MPE) is an investment management firm based in Oberhaching, Bavaria, Germany. Established in 1999, MPE specializes in private equity investments, providing clients with access to exclusive funds and comprehensive portfolio management services. The firm caters to both private and institutional investors, helping them navigate the complexities of private equity. MPE operates through specialized subsidiaries, including MPEP Luxembourg Management S.à r.l., which is regulated by the Luxembourg supervisory authority, and RWB PrivateCapital Emissionshaus AG, regulated by the German BaFin. These entities focus on creating carefully structured portfolios and offering tailored investment solutions. MPE has facilitated over 260 private equity fund investments and holds stakes in more than 4,000 companies, managing an investment volume of approximately €2.4 billion. Their expertise in mid-cap buyouts and commitment to risk management processes further solidify their role in the private equity industry.

10. Wealthcap

• Website: wealthcap.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 99%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: wealthcap-kapitalverwaltungsgesellschaft-mbh

Wealthcap, based in Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, is an investment management firm that specializes in private equity and real estate investments. Founded in 2013, the firm focuses on providing a range of investment products and services tailored to institutional and semi-professional investors. Wealthcap aims to help its clients achieve their financial objectives through strategic asset management. The company is particularly noted for its commitment to sustainability and ESG principles, which are increasingly important in today's investment landscape. Wealthcap offers various investment strategies, including specialized funds in private equity and real estate, catering to the evolving needs of its clients. With a workforce of around 138 employees, the firm operates primarily in Germany, reflecting its strong local presence in the investment market.

11. Astorius

• Website: astorius.net
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: astorius-capital

Astorius Consult GmbH, founded in 2012 and based in Hamburg, Germany, is a private equity firm that focuses on investments in small and medium-sized enterprises. The firm provides investment management services, allowing both individual and institutional investors to access portfolios that are carefully curated by experienced fund specialists. Astorius is dedicated to enhancing the value of its portfolio companies through strategic growth initiatives and operational improvements. They have established a strong presence in the private equity market, particularly in the Mittelstand sector, which is characterized by its robust and resilient companies. Astorius has successfully launched multiple funds, including their first Dachfonds in 2013, and has made significant strides in expanding their operations, including recent exits in the USA and the establishment of a sales presence in Austria. Their commitment to investing alongside their partners ensures that their interests are aligned with those of their investors, fostering a collaborative approach to achieving success.

12. SwanCap

• Website: swancap.eu
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 46%, Luxembourg 46%, Italy 8%
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: swancap-partners-gmbh

SwanCap is an investment management firm based in Munich, Germany, specializing in private equity. Founded in 2013, the firm has built a reputation for its sophisticated investment strategies, which include primary fund commitments, direct co-investments, and direct secondaries. With a team that boasts over 20 years of experience in the private equity sector, SwanCap has successfully managed more than €4 billion in assets across its various funds. The firm operates in Europe and North America, catering to a high-caliber investor base that includes institutional investors and family offices. SwanCap's funds have consistently outperformed benchmarks, achieving top-quartile rankings. The firm is also committed to responsible investing, integrating ESG factors into its investment processes to ensure sustainable value creation for its investors and society.

13. evolutiq

• Website: evolutiq.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: evolutiq-gmbh

Evolutiq is an investment management firm based in Cologne, Germany, established in 2019. The company specializes in private equity, real estate investments, and impact advisory services. Evolutiq aims to create long-term value for its clients, which include businesses and institutional investors, by offering tailored investment solutions and sustainable growth strategies. The firm emphasizes an integrated approach to risk, return, and sustainability, and actively seeks to account for the social and environmental impacts of its investments. Evolutiq's investment principles focus on long-term value creation, interest alignment, and accounting for externalities, reflecting a modern approach to investment management. The firm operates entirely within Germany, reinforcing its commitment to local markets and communities.

14. Droege Group

• Website: droege-group.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Neunkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 57%, India 43%
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: droege-group

Droege Group, founded in 1988 and based in Neunkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a family-owned investment and consulting firm. The company specializes in private equity and strategic investments, primarily targeting medium-sized enterprises and corporate spin-offs. Droege Group provides both capital and consulting services, focusing on enhancing business value and addressing challenges such as restructuring and growth. Their investment strategy includes a 'Buy & Build & Operate' approach, which emphasizes increasing the value of their portfolio companies. With a presence in approximately 30 countries, Droege Group operates with a long-term perspective, aligning their investments with societal megatrends. Their commitment to quality and innovation is evident in their operational philosophy, which integrates art as a means to inspire and enhance their business processes.

15. REIA Capital

• Website: reia.capital
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 2023
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: reiacapital

REIA Capital GmbH, based in Hamburg, Germany, is an investment management firm that specializes in private equity. Founded in 2023, the firm aims to provide advisory services and access to private equity funds, focusing on achieving sustainable overperformance for its clients. REIA Capital caters to both individual investors and institutions, helping them navigate the complexities of private equity investments. The firm prides itself on transparency and client engagement, which are central to its operational philosophy. With a team that collectively holds over 100 years of experience in the private equity sector, REIA Capital seeks to identify and select high-performing investment opportunities, particularly in small-cap buyout and growth funds. The firm has recently initiated the distribution of its first fund, targeting a volume of 100 million euros, and is actively involved in the private equity market, despite its recent inception.

16. Orlando Capital GmbH

• Website: orlandofund.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: orlando-management-ag

Orlando Capital GmbH, based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, is an investment firm founded in 2001. The company specializes in private equity and corporate acquisitions, focusing on medium-sized enterprises facing complex challenges. With a team of experienced specialists, Orlando Capital has successfully navigated over 85 transactions, with a transaction volume between €100 million and €1 billion. Their investment strategy emphasizes strategic development and operational efficiency, aiming to enhance the value of their portfolio companies. The firm operates primarily in the German-speaking and Nordic regions, targeting companies that hold a strong market position despite their complex circumstances. Orlando Capital is also committed to sustainable growth, integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into their investment processes, which reflects a modern approach to private equity.

17. BVT Unternehmensgruppe

• Website: bvt.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 87%, United States (USA) 13%
• Founded year: 1976
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: bvt-unternehmensgruppe

BVT Unternehmensgruppe, founded in 1976 and based in Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, is a private investment management company. The firm specializes in real estate and private equity investments, catering to both institutional and private investors. BVT focuses on creating tailored investment strategies that meet the specific needs of its clients, emphasizing real assets. With a workforce of around 38 employees, the company operates primarily in the USA and Germany, showcasing its international reach. BVT's investment portfolio includes residential projects, such as the recent acquisition of a Class-A apartment development in New York, highlighting their active involvement in the real estate sector. The firm also offers services related to energy and infrastructure investments, further solidifying its position in the private equity landscape.

18. Vtc

• Website: vtc.de
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 80%, Vietnam 20%
• Founded year: 1992
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: vtc-industriebeteiligungen-gmbh-%26-co.-kg

VTC GmbH & Co.KG, founded in 1992, is an investment holding company based in Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. The firm specializes in acquiring and developing industrial companies, particularly in sectors such as wind energy and e-mobility. VTC operates with a focus on providing strategic support and investment management services to its portfolio companies, which are independent entities. The company prides itself on its ability to make quick decisions and offer flexible deal structures, catering to the unique needs of its business clients. VTC has a strong financial foundation, being fully equity financed, which enhances its credibility as a partner in divestment processes. The firm has a significant presence in Germany and maintains a small operational footprint in Vietnam, reflecting its international outlook. VTC's portfolio includes companies like Baettr Holding GmbH, FRIWO AG, JK-Gruppe GmbH, and Sesotec GmbH, showcasing its commitment to sectors that are pivotal for future growth.

19. HQ Capital

• Website: hqcapital.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Bad Homburg, Hesse, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 50%, United States (USA) 32%, Hong Kong S.A.R 11%, Other 8%
• Latest funding: June 2021
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: hq-capital

HQ Capital is an investment management firm based in Bad Homburg, Germany, with a strong focus on private equity. Founded in 1989, the firm has built a reputation for helping institutional investors navigate the complexities of private equity investments. With a dedicated team of professionals, HQ Capital manages a range of private equity programs and individual mandates, emphasizing long-term strategies that align with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria. The firm has invested over $12 billion since its inception and currently operates 29 private equity programs. Their approach combines rigorous analysis with a commitment to sustainability, ensuring that their investment strategies not only aim for attractive returns but also contribute positively to society. HQ Capital's global footprint includes offices in the United States, Asia, and Europe, allowing them to tap into various markets and investment opportunities effectively.

20. Accursia Capital GmbH

• Website: accursia-capital.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 87%, Italy 13%
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: accursia-capital-gmbh

Accursia Capital GmbH, based in Munich, Germany, is a private equity firm founded in 2017. The firm specializes in investing in medium-sized industrial companies, particularly those that require financial restructuring and operational enhancements. Accursia Capital aims to improve the profitability of its portfolio companies through strategic investments and dedicated operational support. Their investment criteria focus on companies with revenues starting from EUR 20 million and EBITDA margins ranging from negative to 5%. The firm has a geographical focus on Europe and has been actively involved in acquiring and managing a range of businesses across various sectors, including manufacturing, packaging, and industrial services. Accursia Capital has also expanded its presence with an office in Milan, Italy, to enhance its investment capabilities in the Italian market. Their portfolio includes companies like LIKUM Group and Plati Group, showcasing their commitment to building a robust industrial holding through strategic acquisitions.

21. ECM Equity Capital Management

• Website: ecm-pe.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: ecm-equity-capital-management-gmbh

ECM Equity Capital Management GmbH, based in Frankfurt, Germany, is a private equity firm that specializes in investing in medium-sized enterprises. Since its inception in 1995, ECM has focused on providing equity investments, management buyouts, and growth financing. The firm primarily serves businesses in the DACH region, seeking to foster strategic partnerships and offer financial support to enhance growth and operational capabilities. With a portfolio that includes over 50 companies and a cumulative revenue of €2.5 billion from these investments, ECM has demonstrated its ability to identify and nurture businesses with potential. The firm operates with a philosophy of partnership, working closely with management teams to drive sustainable development and growth. Their current fund, German Equity Partners V, has commitments totaling €325 million, indicating a robust investor base and ongoing activity in the private equity market.

22. Fidelium Partners

• Website: fidelium-partners.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: fideliumpartners

Fidelium Partners, founded in 2017 and based in Flensburg, Germany, is a family-owned private equity firm that specializes in operational improvements for businesses. With a team of 22 professionals, they focus on providing investment management services that include corporate carve-outs, management buy-outs, and turnaround strategies. Their clients range from corporate groups to individual business owners, all seeking to enhance operational efficiency and manage ownership transitions. Fidelium Partners prides itself on being an operational investor, actively engaging with portfolio companies to implement necessary changes for long-term growth. They manage a significant equity fund backed by German business families, allowing them to support their investments without relying on bank financing. This approach is particularly beneficial in challenging situations, where flexibility and quick decision-making are essential. Their portfolio includes companies across various industries, demonstrating their capability to handle complex investment scenarios.

23. Paragon Partners

• Website: paragon.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: paragon-partners_2

Paragon Partners GmbH, based in Munich, Germany, is a private investment firm founded in 2004. The company specializes in private equity investments in established medium-sized enterprises, focusing on sectors such as healthcare, industrial automation, and media intelligence. Paragon Partners manages approximately €2.4 billion in equity and has successfully completed over 40 investments. Their approach involves providing not just capital but also strategic support to enhance the operational capabilities of their portfolio companies. They work closely with management teams to drive sustainable growth and improve performance, often taking a seat on the advisory board to guide their investments. Paragon is committed to responsible investing, integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations into their investment decisions, which reflects a growing trend in the industry towards sustainability and ethical governance.

Private Equity Firms Insights: Key Companies in Germany

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