This dynamic fundraising illustrates the renewed confidence of its investor base for the team’s entrepreneur-centric approach and deep sector expertise Ardian, a world-leading private investment house, today announced that it has raised €530m for its third-generation Growth platform, Ardian Growth Fund III. In a more challenging fundraising environment, the fund closed above the €500 million target size and more than doubled in size compared to the previous generation, which closed at €230 million in 2018.

The successful fundraise attracted investments from an increasingly diversified and global LP base, in addition to achieving a strong re-up rate from existing investors. Ardian Growth Fund III received commitments from investors across 12 countries, including from major banks and insurance companies, entrepreneurs, pension funds and government agencies. Near 120 LPs in the fund are entrepreneurs, showcasing the trust they have in the team and its ability to steer high-quality growth stories.

Building on the progress already made through previous fund generations, Ardian’s Growth team will continue to target profitable, fast-growing companies across continental Europe thanks to its unique sourcing capabilities. The fund strategy remains aligned with the team’s sector-focused approach, targeting digital at large (software, web and tech-enabled businesses,…), expert B2B services and health & wellness companies, particularly those benefiting from digital transformation and disrupting the traditional value chain in their sector.

“Our approach has always been about more than just funding; we are focused on partnering with entrepreneurs to accelerate their business growth, achieve their ambitions and expand their footprint internationally. The current market presents one of the most exciting opportunities of the last 20 years for growth investment, particularly given the scale and pace of digitalization, and our team of experts bring best-in-class expertise and deep sector knowledge to support management teams with their growth. We have already made three investments from the fund, and our unique sourcing capabilities will see us invest further to help transform more growing companies with the next phase of their journeys.” Alexis Saada, Head of Growth & Senior Managing Director, Ardian

The fund is already close to 25% deployed following three transactions in category leaders, including investments in Théradial, a dialysis solutions provider; My Pie, an innovative snacking concept; and Aprium Pharmacie, a pharmacy banner company.

The fund falls under the Article 8 of the European Union Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR) and integrates sustainability into its strategy to create long-term value shared across our stakeholders.

The Ardian Growth team has more than 20 years’ experience investing in the European growth market and now comprises 4 partners for a total of 14 investment professionals. The team now has €1 billion of assets under management and has supported more than 120 businesses since 1998.