Serena Capital

Serena Capital is a prominent European venture capital firm dedicated to supporting innovative and ambitious entrepreneurs. The firm focuses on early-stage investments, ranging from Pre-Seed to Series A, with initial check sizes typically between €100K and €15 million. Serena Capital manages an investment program totaling over €1 billion, targeting companies with scalable digital business models across Europe and the United States.

Founded in 2008 by entrepreneurs Marc Fournier, Philippe Hayat, and Xavier Lorphelin, Serena Capital was established with the vision of being the kind of VC firm they themselves would have wanted as founders. The firm distinguishes itself through its 'Investment–Operating' model, boasting a large operational task force comprising battle-tested operators and sector specialists. This team provides extensive hands-on support to portfolio companies, going beyond capital to assist with product development, structuring, and international growth.

Serena Capital's investment strategy is diverse, with a strong emphasis on Applied AI and Energy Transition through its Serena IV fund. Their Pre-seed and Seed efforts also target key pillars such as Infrastructures (modern data stack & AI, open-source, blockchain, quantum), Impact (environment, education, well-being), and Consumer Innovation. Notable companies in their portfolio include Dataiku, a leader in Enterprise AI that achieved unicorn status, Electra, which is reinventing electric car charging, Descartes Underwriting, focused on climate change resilience, and iBanFirst, revolutionizing international payments.

The firm's team is characterized by its entrepreneurial DNA, with over 50% of its members being operators who have founded or led companies. This deep operational experience, combined with sharp business acumen, allows Serena Capital to act as a steady ally to its founders from the earliest stages through international expansion, providing unwavering support during both rapid growth and challenging periods.