Incubators are programs designed to support early-stage startups through their critical formative months and years. Incubators provide startups with office space, mentoring, networking opportunities, business training, and sometimes capital. The goal is to help founders turn their ideas into viable businesses. Many incubators are non-profit and run by universities or economic development groups. Some are for-profit and take equity in the startups they incubate. Incubators are highly selective, accepting 1-5% of applicants. Venture capital firms often form relationships with top incubators to get early access to the most promising startups before they raise significant funding. Graduating from a top incubator can help a startup attract venture capital due to the validation and momentum gained through the program.
The private equity market in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland (DACH region) is experiencing a period of transformation. As fundraising remains challenging and investor priorities shift, LPs are reassessing their allocations, weighing risk and return, and placing greater emphasis on ESG-driven investment strategies.
In this conversation, Volker discusses SwanCap’s key investment criteria, the evolving co-investment landscape, and how ESG plays a growing role in decision-making. He also explores why co-investments provide LPs with financial upside and a deep understanding of GP strategies and value creation mechanisms—an invaluable advantage when making future commitments.
This year's 0100 DACH conference in Vienna featured an insightful panel discussion, "Investing for Impact: ESG Transformation from Soft Topic to Hard Fact," where industry leaders shared their perspectives on the evolving role of ESG in private equity. Moderated by Xavier Leroy, Group Head of Advisory Services at EthiFinance, the panel included Louise Doucet, Sustainability Director at Ardian; Stephanie Hubold, Head of ESG at Altor Equity Partners; and Anna Olsson, ESG Director at CapMan Group. Together, they explored how ESG has transitioned from a compliance requirement to a key driver of value creation, shaping investment strategies and redefining long-term success in the private equity landscape.
