Swiss Venture Capital Report 2026 shows strong rebound in Swiss VC market
The Swiss Venture Capital Report 2026, published by the news portal startupticker.ch and the Swiss Private Equity & Corporate Finance Association (SECA), confirms a marked recovery of the Swiss venture capital market in 2025 following two years of slowdown.
Market recovery and renewed investor confidence
Total venture capital investment in Swiss start-ups rose significantly in 2025, reaching CHF 2.95 billion (approx. EUR 3.23 billion), an increase of nearly 24% compared to 2024. This rebound reflects renewed investor risk appetite after the post-2022 market adjustment.
While the overall number of financing rounds remained broadly stable, capital became more concentrated in high-quality companies, pointing to a more selective yet still active investment environment.
Early-stage momentum
One of the most striking developments is the sharp increase in Series A financing. Early-stage investment volumes climbed to a record CHF 1.116 billion, which is 73% more than in 2024, demonstrating sustained confidence in Switzerland's innovation pipeline and long-term growth prospects. Notably, seven of the 20 largest financing rounds in 2025 were secured by early-stage companies, compared to two in the previous year.
Sector highlights
Biotech once again attracted the largest share of invested capital, reinforcing Switzerland's global standing as a life sciences hub. The ICT sector recorded the strongest progress, with software and internet startups — including AI-focused companies — raising nearly 150% more capital than in 2024.
Exits
The report finally points to an improving exit environment. Although the overall number of exits remains relatively modest, a record number of acquisitions exceeding CHF 100 million signals progress. With only two IPOs of Swiss growth companies in 2024, trade sales and M&A transactions continue to serve as the primary liquidity route for investors.
Outlook
The Swiss venture capital market has rebounded strongly in 2025, with record early-stage funding and renewed investor confidence. Capital is increasingly concentrated in high-quality companies, with biotech and ICT remaining key growth sectors.
Rising high-value acquisitions demonstrate improving exit opportunities and sustained international interest. Overall, Switzerland's startup ecosystem is entering a phase of focused, quality-driven growth with stronger long-term potential.
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