As Europe intensifies efforts to turn scientific research into commercially viable technologies, venture capital is increasingly flowing into early stage deeptech innovation. 360 Capital has announced the first close of €85 million for its new technology transfer fund, Poli360 2, aimed at supporting startups emerging from universities and research centres across Europe.
The fund is targeting a total size of €100 million and builds on the firm’s existing strategy of backing research driven companies at an early stage. With Poli360 2, 360 Capital is reinforcing its focus on bridging the gap between academic innovation and scalable businesses capable of competing globally.
Backing deeptech from research to market
Poli360 2 is designed to invest in early stage deeptech startups, particularly those originating from academic and research environments. These companies often develop breakthrough technologies but require specialised support to transition from laboratory research to commercial applications.
By working closely with universities and research institutions, the fund aims to identify promising technologies at an early stage and provide the capital and expertise needed to bring them to market. This approach reflects a broader trend in Europe, where strengthening the link between research and entrepreneurship is seen as critical for long term competitiveness.
The fund plans to make between 20 and 25 investments, focusing on startups with strong technical foundations and the potential to scale internationally.
Focus on industry automation and sustainability
The investment strategy of Poli360 2 is centred around two main themes, industry automation and sustainability. In the field of industry automation, the fund will target technologies such as robotics, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, cybersecurity, Internet of Things, and industrial infrastructure.
These areas are key drivers of productivity and efficiency across sectors, as companies increasingly adopt advanced technologies to modernise operations and remain competitive.
In sustainability, the fund will focus on innovations related to new materials, energy transition, and the circular economy. These sectors are gaining importance as Europe works to reduce emissions and build more sustainable industrial systems.
By combining these two themes, the fund aims to support technologies that not only drive economic growth but also address environmental and societal challenges.
Strong institutional and corporate backing
Poli360 2 has attracted a diverse group of investors, including the European Investment Fund, CDP Venture Capital, Italian pension funds, family offices, and corporate partners such as Brembo, MBDA, and Lucchini RS.
The participation of both institutional and industrial investors highlights the strategic importance of deeptech innovation and the growing interest in technologies that can be applied across multiple industries.
The fund is also classified as an Article 8 fund under the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation, indicating a focus on promoting environmental and social characteristics within its investment strategy.
Building on an established track record
The new fund builds on the success of Poli360 1, which supported a portfolio of 20 companies operating at the intersection of technology and industry. These include startups working in areas such as energy storage, advanced materials, and photonics.
360 Capital itself has a long history of investing in European innovation, with more than 170 companies backed since its founding in 1997. The firm operates from offices in Milan and Paris and has supported companies across deeptech, climate tech, and digital sectors.
Recent exits demonstrate the firm’s ability to scale and commercialise advanced technologies, further strengthening its position in the European venture capital landscape.
Strengthening the Italian and European ecosystem
A significant portion of Poli360 2’s capital, at least 80 per cent, will be invested in Italy, reflecting a commitment to strengthening the country’s deeptech ecosystem. The remaining capital will be allocated to opportunities across Europe, enabling the fund to support a broader range of innovations.
By focusing on collaboration with academic institutions and research centres, 360 Capital aims to create a pipeline of high quality startups that can contribute to Europe’s technological leadership.
Scaling the next generation of deeptech companies
With Poli360 2, 360 Capital is positioning itself to play a key role in the development of Europe’s next generation of deeptech companies. The fund’s approach combines early stage investment with close collaboration between researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry partners.
As demand grows for technologies that can address complex industrial and environmental challenges, funds like Poli360 2 are becoming increasingly important in translating scientific breakthroughs into real world impact.
By providing both capital and strategic support, 360 Capital is helping to shape a more connected and innovation driven ecosystem, where research can evolve into scalable businesses that compete on a global stage.