Claret Capital raises €575m for fourth debt fund as ‘less sexy’ startups need access

Claret Capital Partners, a London-based investment firm, has successfully raised €575 million for its fourth debt fund. The firm's latest offering includes €440 million already invested and an additional €135 million in separate commitments from two limited partners who have specific conditions attached. Claret Capital primarily lends to technology companies, with a focus on climate, deep-tech, and life sciences sectors.

The fundraising effort highlights the growing demand for debt financing among less glamorous startups. Europe's fund managers are increasingly raising capital, but they are not targeting the typically high-profile players. Instead, they are turning their attention to younger venture-backed startups seeking growth opportunities.

This trend is reminiscent of a strategy previously reserved for established companies. Swedish startup Voi, for instance, had previously raised €90 million through bonds. Now, funding platform Always Summer aims to replicate this approach for other scaleups looking to secure similar financing.