London-based Copilot Capital has announced the establishment of a groundbreaking $200 million fund aimed at propelling the growth of European software startups into global leaders. Founded in partnership with The Friedkin Group’s investment division, this initiative marks a significant leap forward in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship across the continent.
Copilot Capital’s mission is clear: to identify and support promising software companies that have either been bootstrapped by their founders or have matured beyond initial venture capital stages. With a strategic emphasis on enhancing market presence, expanding internationally, pursuing strategic acquisitions, and harnessing advanced technologies such as data analytics and AI, the fund seeks to equip its portfolio companies with the tools they need to achieve sustainable growth and market leadership.
In addressing a perceived gap in funding for mid-market software firms across Europe, Copilot Capital targets companies with annual recurring revenues ranging from €5 million to €15 million. By providing not just capital but also strategic guidance and operational expertise, Copilot Capital aims to empower founders to scale their businesses effectively and realize their full potential in the competitive global marketplace.
To inaugurate its investment journey, Copilot Capital has chosen to back Relesys, a Danish innovator at the forefront of employee engagement solutions for the retail sector. Relesys’ comprehensive SaaS platform integrates communication, learning, and task management, empowering frontline workers and enhancing operational efficiency for major brands like Specsavers, COOP, and Vue Cinemas. This partnership underscores Copilot Capital’s commitment to supporting visionary solutions that redefine industry standards and drive meaningful impact.
At the helm of Copilot Capital are industry veterans John Messer and Danny Friedkin, both renowned for their strategic acumen and track record in fostering growth and innovation. John Messer’s tenure at Tenzing, where he led transformative software buyouts, demonstrates his deep-seated commitment to unlocking the potential of emerging SaaS enterprises. Danny Friedkin, Principal of The Friedkin Group International, brings extensive experience in seeding and nurturing new ventures, aligning seamlessly with Copilot Capital’s mission to drive long-term value creation and innovation.
With over 60,000 SaaS companies in Europe, Copilot Capital stands out as a pivotal player in the region’s tech ecosystem, poised to catalyze the growth of visionary software innovators. Beyond financial backing, Copilot Capital aims to cultivate a dynamic network of industry partnerships and thought leadership initiatives, fostering an environment where entrepreneurial spirit thrives and innovation flourishes.
As Copilot Capital embarks on this transformative journey, it reaffirms its commitment to championing European excellence in software innovation and creating lasting value for its portfolio companies, stakeholders, and the broader tech community.
