Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
Project Europe is a venture capital organization founded in March 2025, dedicated to investing in the next generation of technical builders with global ambitions. The firm is headquartered in Europe and is backed by 215 founders from various sectors, including notable names from companies like Klarna and Shopify. The organization focuses on supporting young entrepreneurs, particularly those aged 25 and younger, in transforming their innovative ideas into viable businesses.
With a fund size of €10 million, Project Europe aims to build Europe's next €100 billion companies by investing in early-stage startups. The firm has a unique approach that emphasizes mentorship and community, providing structured support to its portfolio founders. This includes one-on-one mentorship from experienced partners, quarterly coworking sessions in different European cities, and access to a network of successful entrepreneurs.
Project Europe has generated significant interest since its launch, receiving over 1,000 applications within the first 24 hours. The organization is committed to fostering a new generation of entrepreneurs who are equipped to tackle complex problems with technical solutions.
Project Europe invests primarily in early-stage startups, specifically targeting founders who are 25 years old or younger. The firm is particularly interested in technical solutions that address complex challenges across various sectors, including AI, SaaS, healthcare, biotech, consumer, fintech, edtech, food-agtech, climate, and energy. The investment strategy is flexible, allowing for support from the idea stage onward, which means that companies do not need to demonstrate revenue or traction to receive funding.
The typical check size for investments is €200,000, with the firm taking approximately 6.66% equity when leading a round. Project Europe aims to make between 10 to 20 investments annually, focusing on founders aged 18 to 25. The geographic focus is on startups based in Europe, although relocation is permitted later in the process. The firm emphasizes a strong founder-to-founder mentorship model, pairing each investee with a top European entrepreneur to guide them through their journey.
Project Europe has built a diverse portfolio of 15 companies across various sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
This portfolio reflects Project Europe's commitment to backing technical builders who are solving hard problems with innovative solutions.
Harry Stebbings - Founder of 20VC and the primary public face of Project Europe, Harry has a background in venture capital and podcasting, focusing on supporting young entrepreneurs.
Andrey Khusid - CEO of Miro, Andrey serves as a mentor and backer for Project Europe, bringing extensive experience in building successful tech companies.
Tobias Lütke - CEO of Shopify, Tobias is a mentor and backer, known for his expertise in e-commerce and scaling tech businesses.
Mati Staniszewski - CEO of Elevenlabs, Mati contributes to the strategic direction of Project Europe with his background in technology and entrepreneurship.
Rina Onur Sirinoglu - CEO of Spyke Games, Rina brings insights from the gaming industry, enhancing the firm's understanding of consumer tech.
Victor Riparbelli - CEO of Synthesia, Victor's experience in AI and video technology supports Project Europe's focus on technical solutions.
Pauline Glikman - CEO of Payflows, Pauline adds expertise in fintech, aligning with the firm's investment focus.
Fabian Kamberi - CEO of Slay, Fabian's background in tech startups contributes to the mentorship offered to portfolio founders.
Max Linden - CEO of lemon.markets, Max provides insights into the financial technology sector, enhancing the firm's investment strategy.
Din Bisevac - CEO of Buena, Din's experience in tech startups supports the mentorship model of Project Europe.
Steffen Tjerrild - COO of Synthesia, Steffen's operational expertise aids in guiding portfolio companies.
Ferdinand Dabitz - CEO of Ivy, Ferdinand brings insights from the tech industry, enhancing the firm's investment approach.
Joel Hellermark - CEO of Sana, Joel's background in health tech aligns with Project Europe's focus on impactful solutions.
To pitch Project Europe, founders should use the application form available at this link. The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the startup, the problem being addressed, and the technical solution proposed. Founders are encouraged to highlight their backgrounds and any relevant experience.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory. The firm values direct applications from young entrepreneurs eager to make an impact.
Project Europe offers a structured support system for its portfolio founders, which includes:
This structured support is designed to empower young entrepreneurs as they navigate the challenges of building their startups.
On March 12, 2025, Project Europe officially launched with a fund size of €10 million, aiming to support young entrepreneurs across Europe. The firm received significant attention, generating over 600,000 site visits and more than 1,000 applications within the first 24 hours of its launch.
Project Europe has been covered by various media outlets, including TechCrunch and tech.eu, highlighting its unique focus on founders aged 25 and younger. The firm has also faced some skepticism within the VC community regarding its age-based screening criteria, as noted in articles from bebeez.eu and TechFundingNews.
What are Project Europe's investment criteria?
Project Europe focuses on early-stage startups led by founders aged 25 and younger. The firm is interested in technical solutions that address complex problems across various sectors, including AI, healthcare, and fintech.
How can I apply or pitch to Project Europe?
Interested founders can apply through the Project Europe application form available at this link. The application process is designed to be straightforward for young entrepreneurs.
What makes Project Europe different from other VCs?
Project Europe specifically targets young founders and emphasizes a strong mentorship model, pairing each investee with experienced entrepreneurs. This approach aims to provide tailored support and guidance throughout the startup journey.
What is the typical check size and equity stake?
The typical check size for investments is €200,000, with Project Europe taking approximately 6.66% equity when leading a round.
What is the geographic scope of Project Europe's investments?
Project Europe invests in startups based in Europe, although companies can relocate later in their development. The firm aims to support the European startup ecosystem.
What kind of post-investment support does Project Europe provide?
Project Europe offers structured support, including one-on-one mentorship, quarterly coworking sessions, and networking opportunities with other founders. This support is designed to help portfolio companies grow and succeed.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.