European Startups Break Unicorn Barrier, 12 Companies Reach $1 Billion Valuations in H1 2025

European startups raised over $300m in funding, with 12 startups reaching unicorn status in H1 2025. IQM, a Finnish quantum computer developer, became a unicorn after raising $300m in a Series B funding round, bringing its total funding to $600m. No-code website builder Framer reached a $2bn valuation after a $100m Series D funding round, with plans to double down on its enterprise strategy and AI.

European startups have secured a significant amount of funding in the first half of 2025, with notable achievements in the tech and AI sectors. According to recent reports, over $300 million in funding was raised by European startups, with 12 companies reaching unicorn status. Among these, IQM, a Finnish quantum computer developer, stands out as a significant player, having raised $300 million in a Series B funding round. This round brings IQM's total funding to $600 million, solidifying its position as a leader in the quantum computing field [2].

Additionally, the no-code website builder Framer reached a $2 billion valuation following a $100 million Series D funding round. This funding round underscores Framer's strategic pivot towards doubling down on its enterprise strategy and AI integration [3].

In a separate development, ASML, a Dutch company known for its advanced lithography equipment, has invested $1.5 billion in Mistral AI’s $12 billion Series C funding round. This investment positions ASML as Mistral AI’s largest shareholder and aims to bolster European tech sovereignty and AI competitiveness [1].

These funding rounds and strategic investments highlight the growing importance of AI and quantum computing in European tech innovation. The investments in IQM and Framer underscore the continent's commitment to advancing its technological capabilities, while ASML's investment in Mistral AI demonstrates a strategic approach to reducing reliance on U.S. and Chinese tech giants.

References:
[1] https://www.ainvest.com/news/asml-strategic-bet-mistral-ai-catalyst-european-tech-sovereignty-ai-driven-semiconductor-innovation-2509/
[2] https://www.morningstar.com/news/business-wire/20250903805636/iqm-quantum-computers-raises-over-300-million-in-series-b-funding-round-led-by-us-investor-ten-eleven-ventures-with-strong-support-from-tesi
[3] https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/asml-becomes-mistral-ais-top-shareholder-after-leading-latest-funding-round-2025-09-07/