Sifted catalogues a fresh batch of European venture‑capital firms that closed their inaugural funds in 2026. Among the newcomers, several raised modest capital to back early‑stage tech and sustainability startups, signaling a modest expansion of the region’s seed‑stage ecosystem.

The list underscores a shift toward niche strategies, with many managers focusing on deep‑tech, climate‑tech, and under‑served markets in Central and Eastern Europe. While total commitments remain below the €500 million mark, the diversity of themes suggests investors are seeking differentiated exposure beyond traditional fintech and consumer apps.

For limited partners, the emergence of these first‑time funds widens the pool of potential partners but also raises diligence challenges, as track records are limited. The data points to a cautious yet opportunistic climate, where capital is allocated to founders with specialized expertise rather than broad market bets.