More money for impact startups: 100 entrepreneurs close €6.5 debut fund

Syndicate One has been investing in Belgian early-stage startups since 2022, with a portfolio that includes companies like Techwolf, Aikido Security and Cosmic Aerospace. Some of the founders of those companies are now also turning into investors in its latest capital raise, which the syndicate says “is another testament of the ever-faster spinning Belgian tech flywheel.”

The firm's other investors include Matthias Geeroms, co-founder of Lighthouse, a provider of AI powered hotel software which recently closed a €351 million Series C funding round.

“By uniting investors, operators, and founders, we’ve created a platform that not only finances ambitious startups but also provides the guidance and network they need to thrive,” says Laurens De Poorter, founder of Syndicate One. “This €6.5 million close is more than just a milestone, it’s a testament to our collective belief in the future of Belgian innovation.”

Syndicate One had a first close of €4.5 million in late 2023, and the latest raise will be used to “identify, finance and support more Belgian stand-out founders, wherever they are and whichever sector they focus on.”

The network also says it is the first investment firm to get backing from four different Belgian governmental fund, including one federal and three at state level.

Roeland Delrue, co-founder Aikido, said it was a “no-brainer” to invest in the fund himself after the syndicate helped his own company grow.

“It’s a way to contribute to the ecosystem driving our success,” Delrue says.