Deeptech Investment

Backed by ETH Zurich and Nestlé, Vi Partners launches $189M for Europe’s deeptech founders

• ByStartupStory     |    January 23, 2026

The Swiss venture capital firm Vi Partners has announced the first close of its new flagship fund, which is targeting CHF 150 million (approx. $189M). The initial close was backed mainly by existing limited partners, a sign of continued confidence in Vi Partners’ long-term strategy and track record.

The announcement comes as Vi Partners marks 25 years of investing, making it the longest-established venture capital firm in Switzerland.

“Over the past 25 years, we have consistently focused on identifying and supporting teams with strong scientific and technological foundations with the ambition to build outstanding companies,” said Diego Braguglia, Managing Partner at Vi Partners. “This new fund allows us to continue applying a disciplined, long-term investment approach, grounded in deep sector expertise and close collaboration with entrepreneurs.”

Series A and early growth-stage companies

Founded in 2001, the firm has been an early supporter of multiple generations of Swiss technology and healthcare founders. The new fund will focus on Series A and early-growth-stage companies, with investments split between technology and healthcare.

On the technology side, the Swiss VC plans to back startups building core software and data-driven platforms, including enterprise software, AI, fintech, and industrial technology.

In healthcare, the fund will target companies working across biotech, medtech, and digital health, especially those addressing clear clinical or system-level problems.

Vi Partners has previously backed healthcare companies such as AMAL Therapeutics, Kuros Biosciences, Araris Biotech, and Oculis, as well as technology firms including Nexthink, SumUp, and Unique.

“With this fund, we are entering the next phase of our investment activity and look forward to partnering with founders building category-defining companies out of Switzerland and Europe,” said Olivier Laplace, Managing Partner at Vi Partners. “Our role is to be a committed, hands-on partner from the early stages onward, combining capital with experience, network, and long-term support.”

Vi Partners-managed funds are backed by Switzerland’s most visible companies and institutions, including ETH Zurich, ABB, Bühler, UBS, Hilti, McKinsey, Nestlé, Schindler, Sulzer, Suva and ZKB as well as a broad base of institutional and private investors.

“Switzerland has become one of Europe’s strongest ecosystems for life sciences and software-driven innovation,” said Gaetano Zanon, Managing Partner at Vi Partners. “Our long presence in this market puts us in a strong position to keep supporting ambitious founders.”

With the first close completed, Vi Partners has begun deploying capital from the new fund. Further closings are expected later this year.

Follow Startup Story