Emerald Technology Ventures has announced the first close of its Global Water Fund II, securing €60 million in commitments. This venture capital firm, known for its focus on industrial sustainability, aims to invest in startups addressing the world’s pressing water issues. The fund targets early- to growth-stage companies worldwide, concentrating on innovations throughout the water value chain. This includes infrastructure resilience, advanced treatment and reuse, digital monitoring, automation, and solutions for emerging contaminants.
Emerald is aiming for a total fund size of between €150 and €180 million. Its predecessor, the inaugural Global Water Fund, closed in 2020 with $100 million from investors such as Temasek, Microsoft, and Ecolab.
Dr Helge Daebel, a Partner at Emerald, highlighted the importance of resilience in water systems amid climate and infrastructure shocks. He noted the role of digital and AI-driven technologies in enhancing efficiencies and insights, while also emphasising water’s critical role in supporting innovation and sustaining life and industry.
The initial close of Global Water Fund II includes anchor commitments from Veralto Corporation, a water analytics and treatment solutions company, and Ecolab, a provider of water, hygiene, and infection prevention services. Additional commitments came from SKion Water and Oxy Technology Ventures.
Melissa Aquino, Senior Vice President and Chief Segment Officer of Water Quality at Veralto, expressed the company’s commitment to sustainable collaboration and innovation in safeguarding water. She emphasised the need for breakthrough technologies to address water scarcity, treatment, and reuse, highlighting the importance of cross-sector partnerships in building a sustainable future.
