More than 10 European startups became unicorns this year

In the first half of 2025, Europe saw a notable surge in startup valuations, with 12 companies achieving unicorn status by raising funding rounds exceeding $1 billion. This trend signals a robust investment climate despite a decline in mega-rounds compared to 2021. Key sectors attracting investor interest include biotech, defense technology, and especially artificial intelligence (AI). Noteworthy unicorns from this period include Lovable, a Swedish AI startup that reached a $1.8 billion valuation just eight months after launching; Fuse Energy, a British renewable energy firm; and Mubi, a film-streaming service valued at $1 billion following a $100 million funding round. Other significant unicorns include Zama, a French startup specializing in cryptographic data security; Isar Aerospace, a German space company that secured €150 million through a convertible bond; and Tekever, a Portuguese defense tech company planning a £400 million investment in UK development. Additionally, Quantum Systems, Parloa, Isomorphic Labs,