Balderton Capital launched a 'Built in Europe' campaign in June 2026 as part of a broader narrative push to establish a distinct European tech identity and investor positioning against US dominance. The campaign emphasizes European founders' global ambitions while anchoring portfolio companies to the continent's regulatory and talent advantages.
For early-stage founders seeking capital in Europe, Balderton's messaging reflects shifting VC incentives: geographic storytelling is becoming a competitive lever alongside returns. European LPs and strategics (Airbus, SAP, Siemens) are now explicitly favoring domestically-backed IP, meaning European-first go-to-market strategies may unlock more favorable terms and strategic partnership access than previously.