The Secret Sauce: Why Europe's Upcoming Unicorns Thrive on a Mix of Tradition and Innovation
Europe has long been known for its historic castles, delicious pastries, and world-class art museums. But in recent years, a new player has emerged on the scene – the technology sector. Enter Robert Lacher, the co-founder of Venture Capital firm, Visionaries Club. With a vision as big as the European continent itself, Lacher believes that a little more self-confidence is all it takes to unlock Europe’s potential in becoming the global technology leaders of tomorrow.
In 2019, Lacher and his co-founder, Sebastian Pollok, set out to create a VC firm that would not only provide financial support but also valuable guidance and access to potential customers for early-stage technology businesses. Their aim was to bridge the gap between the old and new economies of Europe, creating a network of influential entrepreneurs who could drive Europe’s digital transformation. As Franz Haniel, chairman of Haniel Family Business Holding and a board member of BMW, puts it, this unique approach fosters an entrepreneurial spirit and momentum that is needed to propel Europe into the tech spotlight.
Hanno Renner, the founder of Personio, hails Visionaries Club as a key building block in Europe’s tech ecosystem. The firm’s success lies in its ability to support new market entrants that require more substantial capital than traditional VC investors can provide. Lacher and Pollok’s innovative approach has caught the attention of many, and they are now seeking support for their sixth vehicle, the Tomorrow Fund. With this new fund, they hope to continue backing companies that have the potential to put Europe on the map as a global tech powerhouse.
Despite Europe’s rich history and cultural significance, it has yet to produce a tech giant on par with Google, Amazon, or Tencent. Lacher acknowledges this gap but remains optimistic about Europe’s future in the tech industry. By empowering startups with the resources and guidance they need to thrive, Visionaries Club is paving the way for Europe to compete on a global scale. As Lacher aptly puts it, all it takes is a little more self-confidence and belief in the skills and qualities that Europe already possesses to make a mark in the tech world.
In a world where technology reigns supreme, Europe is proving that it has what it takes to make a significant impact. With Visionaries Club leading the charge, the continent is not only embracing its past but also looking towards a future filled with innovation and success. As Lacher and Pollok continue their mission to support the next generation of tech leaders, one thing is clear – Europe’s time to shine in the global tech arena is just around the corner.
