Exclusive: British Business Bank eyes stake in EU’s €5bn Scal…

Market sources reveal that the British Business Bank (BBB) hopes to take a stake in the EU’s €5bn Scaleup Fund and has held early discussions with government officials on the matter, Sifted understands. The British Business Bank (BBB) hopes to take a stake in the EU’s €5bn Scaleup Fund and has held early discussions with government officials on the matter, Sifted understands.The Scaleup Fund, which will be managed by Swedish investment firm EQT, was set up to address Europe’s longstanding lack of late-stage capital.It will invest in late-stage tech companies deemed strategically important to the bloc, such as AI, defence and semiconductors.  At present, the €5bn pot comes from EU member states. This development has significant implications for the industry, potentially influencing competitive dynamics, investment patterns, and strategic priorities across the sector. The BBB’s chief investment officer, Leandros Kalisperas, told Sifted that the BBB would look to invest in the fund only if UK startups became eligible to receive investment from it.  A person familiar with the situation told Sifted that the firm had met with government officials. Market ImplicationsForward-Looking IndicatorsContinued consolidation expected in the sectorIncreasing focus on digital transformation and innovationGrowing importance of ESG considerations Expert Commentary Looking AheadFor complete details on this development, refer to the original report from Sifted (Financial Times). Frequently Asked Questions