Paris-based venture capital firm Founders Future is gearing up for a major U.S. expansion as it charts a bold path toward managing €1 billion in assets by 2030. Backed by fresh capital from heavyweight investors like MACSF, the Dassault family, and global shipping giant CMA CGM Group, Founders Future sold a 25% stake in its holding company to fuel this next growth phase.
Since launching in 2018, Founders Future has made a name for itself betting early on European startups such as Lydia, Alma, Taster, La Fourche, Riot, Swan, and Yuka. So far, the firm has backed 110 startups across two early-stage funds and a growth fund — building a diverse portfolio with promising success stories.
Building a Transatlantic Venture Powerhouse
With €300 million under management today (roughly $324 million), Founders Future is now setting its sights on the U.S. market — a move designed to accelerate its growth trajectory. The plan includes opening two new offices, one on the East Coast and another on the West Coast, and assembling a local investment team.
Explaining the firm’s strategy, Founding Partner Marc Menasé shared his observations on how European startups scale faster once they enter the U.S. market.
“Once these companies land in the U.S., many double or even triple their annual recurring revenue (ARR) within just three years,” Menasé said. “Access to American investors also unlocks much higher valuations — often twice what we see in Europe.”
Bridging Europe and America for Bigger Exits
For Founders Future, building a transatlantic bridge isn’t just about supporting European startups crossing over. The firm sees this as a two-way street, offering American startups a European partner to help them navigate complex tech and regulatory environments.
Menasé believes the U.S. market offers significantly better exit opportunities, especially through acquisitions by large corporations. “We aim to become a global player, connecting European and American ecosystems,” he explained.
Launching a New U.S.-Focused Growth Fund
Beyond setting up shop in the U.S., Founders Future is preparing to raise a new growth fund targeting American tech investments. The fund will allow the firm’s European limited partners to invest directly in high-growth U.S. companies.
“Our initial goal is modest — we’ll write checks between $5 million and $10 million for growth rounds ranging from $50 million to $70 million,” Menasé added.
While fundraising for this new vehicle is yet to begin, Founders Future expects to target up to $250 million. Insiders suggest existing backers like MACSF, the Dassault family, and CMA CGM could also invest in this U.S. growth fund once it’s live.
By expanding stateside, Founders Future is positioning itself as a vital transatlantic VC partner — one that offers startups from both continents the resources and networks they need to scale globally.
