Amadeus Capital Partners

Founded in 1997, Amadeus Capital Partners has built a formidable reputation as a specialist in deep tech investment. Co-founded by Anne Glover and Hermann Hauser—himself a legend of the UK technology scene, responsible for co-founding Acorn Computers—Amadeus has become synonymous with backing entrepreneurs who tackle big challenges armed with cutting-edge science and technology.

From their bases in London, Cambridge, and Oxford, Amadeus’s team searches for startups with a clear technological advantage, often derived from groundbreaking intellectual property. They're especially known for nurturing innovations in AI, quantum computing, cybersecurity, and digital health. For early-stage founders, this means Amadeus can offer not only financial backing but crucial guidance in moving innovations from laboratory to market—often the toughest leap for tech-led startups.

Their portfolio includes household names like Oxford Nanopore Technologies—pioneers in DNA sequencing—and Graphcore, whose AI processors have made it one of Europe’s standout unicorns. Notably, many of Amadeus’s early-stage investments have progressed to impressive exits, such as VocalIQ’s acquisition by Apple and FiveAI’s sale to Bosch. Founders eyeing Amadeus as a potential partner may consider these examples as evidence for the firm’s knack for picking winners—and importantly, supporting them through to scale.

Amadeus’s investment thesis centers around exceptional founding teams with unique technological insights. Early-stage companies seeking investment must clearly demonstrate their IP strength, market potential, and scalability. While proof-of-concept is sufficient at seed stages, founders should be prepared for rigorous technical due diligence from Amadeus’s experienced partners, many of whom bring a deep scientific background themselves. The firm frequently leads seed and Series A rounds, and actively participates in follow-on rounds, reflecting a commitment to long-term partnerships.

Working with Amadeus is typically a hands-on experience, albeit with a founder-centric approach. They are active investors who commonly take board seats and provide strategic advice, recruitment support, and introductions to international networks and corporate partners. The firm prides itself on being supportive yet measured, understanding when to step back and let the founders steer their company.

A recent £110 million early-stage fund, backed by British Patient Capital, underscores Amadeus’s continued focus on the UK's innovation ecosystem. Additionally, the recent launch of an €80 million joint fund with Austria’s APEX Ventures shows an expanding European ambition.

As one founder, whose startup ContactEngine was acquired by NICE Systems, put it, landing investment from Amadeus meant securing one of “the best VCs in our space.” This reflects a broader sentiment among portfolio companies: partnering with Amadeus doesn’t just secure funding—it secures allies deeply familiar with the challenges and opportunities of building a transformative tech venture.