More than 10 European startups became unicorns this year
Funding season is heating up again in Europe, and the momentum is hard to ignore. More than 10 European startups became unicorns this year, proving that even in a tougher funding climate, innovation is thriving. While mega-rounds are not as common as in 2021, 2025 has already delivered 12 billion-dollar startups in just the first half.
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This trend signals where investor confidence is heading. From biotech breakthroughs to defense innovation—and, of course, AI—Europe’s startup scene is showing resilience and diversity. For founders, this could be a signal that the ecosystem is maturing and becoming more global.
Why 2025 is a Big Year for European Unicorns
Past performance isn’t always a guarantee of future success, but the numbers don’t lie. Twelve unicorns in less than eight months is a strong sign of investor appetite. It also highlights Europe’s shift toward sectors that are both future-proof and strategically important.
Hot areas include:
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AI & Machine Learning – driving the bulk of new unicorns.
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Biotech & Health Tech – critical for global competitiveness.
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Defense Tech & Energy – fueled by geopolitical and sustainability shifts.
New Unicorns of 2025
Lovable (Sweden)
AI startup Lovable became a unicorn in record time. Launched only eight months earlier, it raised a massive $200 million Series A led by Accel, hitting a $1.8 billion valuation. While incorporated in Delaware, the team is largely based in Stockholm, making it one of Europe’s fastest-growing AI unicorns.
Fuse Energy (UK)
Founded in 2022 by two former Revolut executives, Fuse Energy is tackling renewable energy at scale. In July 2025, it raised a funding round that pushed its valuation beyond $1 billion. The company is positioning itself as one of the UK’s most promising clean energy players.
What This Means for Europe’s Startup Ecosystem
The fact that more than 10 European startups became unicorns this year is not just a headline—it’s a signal of Europe’s rising influence in global tech. Despite tighter venture funding, investors are betting big on startups with clear strategic advantages.
If this pace continues, Europe could close out 2025 with several dozen new unicorns, making it one of the most active years since the boom of 2021. For founders, that means opportunities are expanding—especially if you’re building in AI, green tech, or deep tech.
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