Lakestar Overview
Lakestar was founded by Klaus Hommels, one of Europe's most prominent technology investors and an early backer of Skype, Spotify, Facebook, and Airbnb. The firm raised €600M across its fourth early-stage fund (€280M) and second growth fund (€320M) in 2024. In late 2024 Hommels announced the firm would no longer raise generalist VC funds, concentrating on a continuation fund model.
Lakestar AUM
Lakestar manages €2B+ across multiple fund vintages. The most recent raise was €600M in 2024. The firm has 11 unicorns including Spotify, Revolut, and Helsing.
Lakestar Key People
- Klaus HommelsFounder & Managing Partner
Lakestar Portfolio
Lakestar Interview Process
Lakestar's process begins with a written screening — you submit a short piece explaining which companies and markets excite you. From there, fit conversations, market sizing or investment case study, and technical due diligence on a company in one of Lakestar's focus areas — deeptech, healthcare, or fintech.
Lakestar Careers
Team of ~50 across Zurich, Berlin, and London. Most hires come through direct outreach. Given the shift toward deeptech, AI, healthcare, and fintech, candidates with domain expertise have an edge over generalists.