Demeter is a European investment firm specializing in venture capital, private equity and infrastructure investments that advance the energy and ecological transition. Founded in 2005 and based in Paris with offices in Lyon, Bordeaux, Madrid and Düsseldorf, the firm manages €1.3 billion in assets and has completed over 230 investments. Its team of 38 professionals backs companies from seed-stage startups to mid-cap enterprises, providing funding between €1 million and €30 million. As a signatory to the Principles for Responsible Investment and the Carbon Disclosure Project, Demeter integrates environmental, social and governance criteria into every decision.
The firm focuses on solutions that cut carbon emissions and foster sustainable growth. Core sectors include renewable energy generation—solar, wind and related storage—energy efficiency and building renovation, clean mobility, and environmental technologies such as air quality monitoring and waste management. Demeter’s infrastructure arm supports projects that upgrade power grids, develop smart infrastructure and expand clean energy capacity across urban and rural areas. Investments seek both measurable environmental impact and scalable business models.
Demeter’s cleantech portfolio features companies such as McPhy Energy, which delivers industrial electrolyzers and hydrogen storage; Sunna Design, a provider of solar LED lighting; eLichens, maker of air quality micro-sensors; and Cozynergy, which specializes in energy renovation services. The firm co-manages the EBA Strategic Battery Materials Fund, a €500 million initiative that strengthens Europe’s supply chain for lithium, nickel and other critical minerals in support of the European Battery Alliance. Alongside the Circular Innovation Fund, launched with Cycle Capital, these efforts back new materials, recycling and eco-efficient processes to build a resilient, low-carbon future.
