A striking statistic from the reports shows that nearly 60% of European deep-tech scale-ups lack formal boards, and only 35% of executives believe their boards significantly contribute to growth. This underscores the necessity of strengthening board governance as a crucial growth lever.
Moreover, the reports address the frequent challenge of failing to secure funding, with 80%-90% of firms missing out post-pitch due to weak investment narratives. The need to craft compelling, data-driven investment theses is paramount, and the reports provide actionable recommendations to improve in this area.
Additionally, the reports discuss the shift in priorities towards securing lead investors, focusing more on deal readiness and transparent documentation rather than market validation. This shift is critical for scale-ups looking to secure the necessary funding for continued growth.
“The challenge roadmaps showcase actionable recommendations and examples of how deep-tech companies can strengthen their boards, craft compelling investment narratives, and secure the funding they need to scale. By sharing this knowledge, we aim to empower scale-ups and support stakeholders to make informed decisions and drive growth within the European deep-tech ecosystem,” says Josemaria Siota, Executive Director of the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center at IESE Business School.
The “European Deep-Tech Scale-Ups: Challenge Roadmaps” reports are part of a series of 10 studies analyzing the challenges deep-tech ventures face during their growth journey – from commercializing their innovation and growing the business to attracting investment and contributing to the ecosystem. Read the first 4 reports:
European Deep-Tech Scaleups: Go-To-Market Strategy
European Deep-Tech Scaleups: Strong Board
European Deep-Tech Scaleups: Investment Thesis
European Deep-Tech Scaleups: Lead Investor
The EIC Scaling Club is a curated community where 120+ European deep-tech scale-ups connect with hundreds of peers, investors, corporate innovators, partners, and other industry stakeholders to spur collective growth. IESE is the proud partner of this initiative funded by the European Innovation Council.