Nauta Secures €60 Million First Close for Sixth Fund Targeting European Software and DeepTech Startups

How Does Nauta Differentiate Itself in a Crowded European VC Landscape?

London-based venture capital firm Nauta has completed the first close of its sixth fund, raising €60 million to support early-stage B2B software and DeepTech startups across Europe. The fund, which will invest from pre-Seed to Series A stages, marks another milestone in the firm’s decade-long commitment to backing innovative technology companies. Nauta focuses on sectors such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and advanced computing, aiming to identify high-potential founders building scalable solutions. The capital will be deployed over the next three to four years, with an emphasis on pan-European opportunities beyond the UK and traditional tech hubs.

The new fund builds on Nauta’s track record of supporting over 80 portfolio companies since its inception, including notable exits and follow-on funding rounds. By maintaining a sector-specific approach, the firm aims to provide not only capital but also strategic guidance to founders navigating complex technical and market challenges. Nauta’s investment thesis centers on deep technological innovation combined with strong commercial potential, particularly in areas where European expertise can compete globally. The firm’s London base allows it to leverage local talent and networks while maintaining a broad European footprint through partnerships and co-investments with other regional VCs.

What Are the Key Trends Driving Nauta’s Investment Strategy?

Nauta distinguishes itself through its exclusive focus on B2B software and DeepTech, avoiding consumer-facing or later-stage investments that dominate many European funds. This specialization enables the team to develop deep domain expertise and build trust with technical founders who value investor understanding of complex product development cycles. Unlike generalist VCs, Nauta often leads or co-leads early rounds, taking board seats and actively assisting with hiring, go-to-market strategy, and subsequent fundraising. The firm also emphasizes long-term partnerships, frequently reinvesting in successful portfolio companies across multiple funding rounds as they scale.

The firm identifies several macro trends shaping its deal flow, including the increasing adoption of AI and machine learning in enterprise software, growing demand for cybersecurity solutions amid rising digital threats, and advancements in quantum computing and semiconductor design. Nauta also notes a shift toward deeper technical founding teams, with more PhDs and researchers launching startups directly from academic institutions. These trends align with the fund’s ability to assess complex technologies early and support founders through the critical transition from lab prototype to market-ready product. The firm believes Europe’s strong engineering talent base and public research funding create a unique advantage in DeepTech innovation.

What is the target size for Nauta’s sixth fund? While the first close stands at €60 million, Nauta indicates the fund remains open for additional commitments and aims to reach a final close higher than its predecessor, which was approximately €150 million.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which European regions will Nauta prioritize for investments? The firm maintains a pan-European focus, actively seeking opportunities in Germany, France, the Nordics, and Benelux, while also considering strong cases from Southern and Eastern Europe where technical talent is growing.

How does Nauta support founders beyond capital? Nauta provides hands-on assistance through operational partners, technical advisors, and network access, helping startups refine product-market fit, recruit key talent, and prepare for future funding rounds or strategic acquisitions.