European Start-Up Funding: The Best Accelerators & VC Firms

For early-stage startups, getting into a top accelerator or securing venture capital can be a game-changer. Beyond funding, these programs offer mentorship, investor connections, and structured growth support.

But with hundreds of accelerators and VC firms across Europe, how do you choose the right one? And how do you increase your chances of getting accepted? 

In this guide, we’ll explore the European start-up funding landscape. We’ll highlight the best startup accelerators, the leading VC firms, what they offer, and how founders can maximise their chances of success. 

Types of European Accelerators 

Accelerators are best for early-stage startups with a validated idea or minimum viable product (MVP). But, not all accelerators operate the same way. It’s important to understand the different structures before applying. 

1. Equity-Based Accelerators 

These accelerators provide funding in exchange for equity. They typically take 5–10% ownership in return for €50,000–€150,000 in investment, along with mentorship and access to investors. Examples include: 

• Techstars Europe (Multiple locations) – One of the world’s most well-known accelerators, offering industry-focused programs.

• Seedcamp (UK & Europe) – Invests in early-stage startups, often before other VCs.

• Antler (Europe-wide) – Provides pre-seed funding for co-founders to build new startups.

2. Grant-Based & Non-Equity Programs 

These accelerators offer support without taking equity, making them ideal for early-stage founders who want to retain full ownership. Examples include: 

• EIC Accelerator (EU-wide) – Provides grants up to €2.5 million and equity up to €15 million for deep-tech startups.

• Plug and Play Europe (Various locations) – No direct funding, but connects startups with corporate partners.

• La French Tech Tremplin (France) – Supports diverse founders with non-equity funding and mentorship.

3. Corporate & Industry-Specific Accelerators 

Many large corporations run accelerators to foster innovation in their industries. Some of the top ones include: 

• L’Oréal’s Big Bang BeautyTech (France) – Beauty and cosmetic tech startups. 

• Wayra (Telefonica, Spain & UK) – Focused on telecom, AI, and cybersecurity.

• Startupbootcamp (Multiple locations) – Offers vertical-specific programs in fintech, IoT, and sustainability.

Top European Accelerators by Region 

1. Western Europe 

• Techstars London (UK) – Flagship accelerator with a strong investor network. 

• Station F (France) – The world’s largest startup campus, home to multiple accelerator programs.

• Rockstart (Netherlands) – Focuses on energy, agri-food, and emerging tech.

2. Northern Europe 

• Startup Wise Guys (Baltics & Nordics) – Leading B2B SaaS accelerator.

• xEdu (Finland) – Europe’s top accelerator for edtech startups.

• Accelerace (Denmark) – Specializes in healthtech and sustainability.

3. Southern & Eastern Europe 

• Zero Gravity Capital (Poland) – Strong investor-backed accelerator in Eastern Europe.

• Next Unicorn (Spain) – Targets scale-up companies ready for Series A.

• EIT Digital (EU-wide) – European-backed accelerator for deep-tech startups.

How to Get Accepted Into a European Accelerator 

1. Focus on Traction & Market Validation 

Most accelerators prefer startups that have: 

• Early revenue or committed customers. 

• A validated product with clear demand. 

• A scalable business model that aligns with investor expectations. 

2. Build a Strong Founder Story 

Investors and accelerators back strong teams over just great ideas. Be clear about: 

• Why you and your team are the best people to solve this problem. 

• How your background gives you an unfair advantage. 

• Your commitment to long-term growth. 

3. Make Your Application Stand Out 

For European start-up funding, competition is fierce. Here’s how to improve your chances: 

• Get a warm introduction from a mentor, investor, or past alumni. 

• Be clear on what you need from the accelerator.

• Use a short, well-crafted video pitch to set you apart. 

Top Venture Capital Firms in Europe 

Venture capital (VC) funding is generally targeted for more established, later-stage start-ups. As a result, VC firms often play a crucial role in European start-up funding once accelerator programs have been completed.

Here are some of the most active VCs in Europe: 

1. Pan-European VC Firms 

• Atomico – Founded by Skype’s co-founder, investing in tech startups across Europe.

• Balderton Capital – London-based VC firm focusing on Series A investments.

• EQT Ventures – A leading European fund investing in high-growth tech companies.

2. Regional Leaders 

• Northzone (Nordics & UK) – Early-stage VC backing companies like Spotify and Trustpilot.

• Partech Partners (France & Germany) – Invests across fintech, AI, and SaaS.

• Creandum (Nordics) – One of the top Nordic investors, with a focus on consumer tech.

3. Sector-Specific VC Firms 

• Hoxton Ventures – Focuses on early-stage deep-tech and AI startups.

• Earlybird VC – Leading European deep-tech and life sciences investor.

• HealthTech VC (Multiple locations) – Investing in biotech and medical device startups.

The Role of Waking Dreams Media in Start-Up Fundraising

Startups applying to accelerators and raising venture capital often struggle to communicate their vision clearly. The best applications use visual storytelling to stand out. 

At Waking Dreams Media, we help entrepreneurs navigate European start-up funding and stand out in a competitive market. We specialise in producing high-impact pitch videos that: 

• Make complex ideas easy to understand. 

• Highlight the strength of the team and market opportunity. 

• Create a compelling investor narrative that gets applications noticed. 

We recently partnered with a healthtech start-up to create a multi-functional explainer video that played a key role in securing €200K in funding. We can help your start-up do the same.

Have a look at their video here ⤵

Final Thoughts on European Start-Up Funding

The landscape for European start-up funding includes a rich ecosystem of accelerators and VC firms. These offer funding, mentorship, and access to investors. But competition is high, and founders must craft a compelling narrative to secure a spot. 

If you’re preparing an accelerator application or pitching to investors and want to stand out, a well-crafted pitch video can be the key to European start-up funding success.

Let’s talk about how Waking Dreams Media can help you create a pitch that gets results. 

Contact us today to get started.