Belgium’s WAD Capital reaches €67.5 million first close for debut fund following €25 million EIF investment

Belgian investment firm WAD Capital has successfully closed its inaugural fund at €67.5 million, with a significant €25 million investment from the European Investment Fund (EIF). This investment positions the EIF as the largest backer of WAD Capital's debut fund. The Ghent-based firm specializes in acquiring small to mid-sized European companies grappling with succession issues, transferring them to skilled operators.

The additional funding will aid WAD Capital in expanding its debut fund from €67.5 million to a target of €130 million. Robert de Groot, Vice President of the EIB Group, emphasized the importance of WAD Capital's approach in supporting SMEs with strong growth potential and facilitating their growth. Founded in 2023 by Christopher Tournis Gamble, Steven Coppens, and Alain Brossé, WAD Capital aims to become one of Europe's largest platforms for "Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition."

The firm targets profitable SMEs with EBITDA ranging from €1 to €5 million across the Benelux, northern France, and western Germany, with a focus on healthcare, energy, climate transition, and business services. The firm's CEO in Residence model, where experienced managers are recruited, vetted, and guided through the acquisition process, has led to eight successful acquisitions in less than a year.

WAD Capital aims to double its cohort size to twenty-five companies by the end of 2027, leveraging the EIF's investment to scale its operations and create more job opportunities in Europe.