What is Smile Invest?
Smile Invest is a European investment company founded in 2017, dedicated to smart money for innovation leaders. They focus on partnering with innovative growth companies, especially those headquartered in the Benelux region, that have a compelling vision and the ambition to become market leaders. With around forty entrepreneurial families backing them, Smile Invest brings more than just capital—they bring entrepreneurship, experience, and a genuine curiosity about the stories behind each company. Their evergreen, open-ended structure gives them the flexibility and peace of mind to fully commit to the growth journeys of their partners.
Main Benefits and Key Figures
Smile Invest offers a unique blend of financial strength and entrepreneurial spirit. Here are some key facts that highlight their approach:
- Equity ticket size ranges from €10 million to €50 million
- Deal types include majority, minority, buy-out, and growth capital
- Investment duration is flexible, averaging 4 to 8 years, thanks to an evergreen structure
- Target companies typically have revenues between €10 million and €200 million
- EBITDA range for investments is €2 million to €20 million
- Supported by a €350 million fund size, allowing tailored transactions
Investment Themes That Drive Innovation
Smile Invest zeroes in on four core themes where innovation and impact go hand in hand. First up, advanced technology—think AI, cloud computing, big data, robotics, Industry 4.0, and connectivity. These technologies are reshaping industries by boosting efficiency and sparking new business models. Smile Invest backs companies that build real competitive advantages through these tech advances, whether it’s digital platforms, automated production, or cutting-edge technical products.
Healthcare & Wellbeing: Meeting Tomorrow’s Needs
The world’s aging population demands smarter healthcare solutions, and Smile Invest is right there, supporting companies in medical technology, diagnostics, and services that bring healthcare closer to patients. Beyond just treatment, there’s a growing focus on improving quality of life and wellbeing. By investing in this space, Smile Invest helps push forward innovations that make healthcare more accessible, effective, and patient-centered.
Environment: Investing in a Sustainable Future
Climate change is a massive challenge, and meeting the EU’s 2050 climate goals means big investments across sectors. Smile Invest targets companies active in the energy transition and those offering innovative environmental solutions. The focus is on sustainable management of scarce resources like air, water, energy, and ores. By accelerating energy and material efficiency, these companies are not just fighting climate change—they’re leading the way to a greener, more sustainable world.
Smile Invest’s Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- SDG 13: Climate Action
Strategic Support and Added Value
What sets Smile Invest apart is their hands-on, entrepreneurial approach. They’re not just investors; they’re active partners. They serve as a sounding board for management teams, leveraging deep expertise in advanced technology, healthcare, and environmental sectors. Their extensive network of entrepreneurs and experts opens doors and creates opportunities. They help companies develop go-to-market strategies, support international expansion, and assist with strategic acquisitions. On the operational side, they share best practices, help prepare organizations for the future, and accelerate digitization and automation. All of this combines to create a powerful value proposition for companies aiming for sustainable growth and market leadership.
