Capgemini and ISAI Unveil New Investment Fund for Startups
Capgemini and ISAI have joined forces to launch ISAI Cap Venture II, a dedicated venture capital fund aimed at fostering innovative startups. This new initiative builds upon the success of its predecessor, ISAI Cap Venture I, with an ambitious total investment of €80 million.
Investment Focus and Strategy
The primary goal of ISAI Cap Venture II is to support promising B2B startups and scale-ups on a global scale. By leveraging ISAI's venture capital expertise alongside Capgemini’s vast resources and ecosystem, the fund aims to create synergies that enhance the growth of high-potential companies.
Background on ISAI Cap Venture I
Since its inception in 2019, ISAI Cap Venture I has effectively built a diverse portfolio consisting of 15 innovative companies across various industries. This first fund has seen noteworthy investments in firms like Alation, which focuses on data governance, Zelros, revolutionizing insurance distribution, and Copado, which enhances Salesforce platform capabilities.
Aligning with Corporate Strategies
The investments made through ISAI Cap Venture II align strategically with Capgemini’s focus on enhancing its service offerings and industry partnerships. By investing in these startups, Capgemini is not just expanding its portfolio but also fostering new innovations that address technological transformation needs faced by its clients.
Investing in Future Technologies
The new fund is particularly geared towards next-generation technologies poised to dictate the future of business operations. For instance, investments include initiatives like Liquid AI—a generative AI model that combines efficiency with sustainability—and Pasqal, leading the charge in quantum computing innovation.
Successful Corporate and VC Collaboration
ISAI Cap Venture II adopts a model that allows for minority stakes in companies, ranging from €1 million to €5 million. The focus will be on Series A funding to growth-stage investments, ensuring collaboration with prominent venture capital players predominantly based in Europe and the United States. This structured corporate-VC partnership has proven itself effective in accelerating the growth of startups.
Insights from Leadership
Jean-David Chamboredon, CEO of ISAI, commented on the first fund's achievements, stating, “Our initial foray illustrated that startups could thrive with the backing of a corporate partner while maintaining their essential flexibility for growth.” Meanwhile, Lucia Sinapi-Thomas, Executive Director of Capgemini Ventures, noted that their partnership aims to develop value propositions that drive the swift adoption of breakthrough digital innovations.
ISAI's Ongoing Commitment to Venture Capital
ISAI has significantly enhanced its venture capital capabilities, now managing over €240 million across various corporate-backed investment funds. This robust position reinforces ISAI's reputation as a leading venture capital firm, adept at connecting startups with major industrial partners.
About Capgemini
Capgemini stands as a global leader in business and technology transformation. The firm empowers organizations to transition smoothly into a digital and sustainable future, positively impacting both enterprises and wider society. Comprising over 340,000 members across more than 50 countries, Capgemini leverages its extensive 55-year legacy to assist clients in harnessing technology for various business challenges. With 2024 revenues recorded at €22.1 billion, Capgemini remains at the forefront of transformative solutions propelled by advancements in AI, cloud, and data.
About ISAI
As a pioneering entity in the French tech ecosystem, ISAI Gestion was co-founded in 2009 by Tech entrepreneurs for Tech entrepreneurs. With a significant portfolio of €1.0 billion managed across four key investment strategies, ISAI exemplifies commitment to innovation in financing and inclusivity in low-carbon technology initiatives. They operate out of Paris and New York City, collaborating with both entrepreneurs and major institutional investors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ISAI Cap Venture II?
ISAI Cap Venture II is a newly launched €80 million venture capital fund by Capgemini and ISAI, focused on investing in innovative B2B startups.
What types of companies will ISAI Cap Venture II invest in?
The fund targets high-potential B2B startups and scale-ups that align with Capgemini's strategic priorities, focusing on next-gen technologies.
What is the investment strategy for ISAI Cap Venture II?
The fund will take minority stakes in firms with investments ranging from €1 million to €5 million, targeting Series A to growth-stage companies.
How has ISAI’s investment activity evolved?
ISAI has successfully raised over €240 million for corporate-backed funds, strengthening its position as a key player in the venture capital landscape.
What impact does this fund aim to have?
By investing in innovative startups, ISAI Cap Venture II aims to accelerate digital transformation and enhance client offerings for Capgemini's global ecosystem.
