Creandum Overview
Creandum is one of Europe's oldest and most consistent early-stage venture firms. Staffan Helgesson founded it in 2003 after a McKinsey stint in San Francisco, convinced that Europe could produce global technology leaders. Fund VII closed in 2024 at €500M — raised in just 12 weeks. Across all funds, roughly one in six seed investments has become a unicorn.
The portfolio includes Spotify (IPO 2018, now $90B+), Klarna (IPO 2025, $15B), Lovable, Trade Republic, Pleo, and Depop. Creandum operates from Stockholm, London, Berlin, and San Francisco with a team of 34.
Creandum AUM
Fund VII closed at €500M in 2024, raised in 12 weeks. The firm has 14 unicorns across all fund vintages and a 1-in-6 seed-to-unicorn conversion rate — among the best in European venture capital.
Creandum Key People
- Staffan HelgessonGeneral Partner & Founder
- Simon SchminckeGeneral Partner, Berlin
- Peter SpechtGeneral Partner, London
Creandum Portfolio
Creandum Interview Process
Creandum's process runs three rounds. Round 1 — screening call with questions about companies you admire and markets you find compelling. Candidates are sometimes asked to record a short video pitch. Round 2 — case study blending market sizing with financial due diligence. Round 3 — senior partner interview assessing fit and conviction.
Creandum Careers
Creandum does not run formal on-cycle recruiting. Most junior hires come through direct outreach. The London office under Peter Specht focuses on AI and technical SaaS. The Berlin office under Simon Schmincke covers DACH fintech and marketplace businesses. Pick the office and partner whose thesis aligns with your interests.