Swiss Startup Funding Hits CHF 1.5 Billion in H1 2025

15.07.2025 10:30, Rita Longobardi

In the first half of 2025, Swiss startups raised CHF 1,473.7 million across 124 financing rounds—marking the strongest half-year performance since 2021. While a few large-scale financing rounds contributed significantly to this result, the overall trend shows a clear rebound compared to 2024, both in volume and total capital raised (CHF 1.08 billion across 138 rounds in H1 2024). This upward movement signals a renewed confidence and puts Switzerland back on track toward pre-downturn levels. The number of funding rounds in H1 2025 is comparable to that of 2021, reinforcing the impression of a market that is regaining strength.

The half-year update of the Swiss Venture Capital Report shows that Swiss startups raised CHF 1,473.7 million in venture capital during the first six months of the year — a 36% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Despite the rise in capital, the number of financing rounds dropped from 138 to 124, marking a 10% decline and the third consecutive decrease.

Record biotech investments
Biotech and fintech continue to attract capital, and the emergence of deep tech as a growing focus area reflects investor appetite for long-term value creation. These trends, paired with steady deal flow in energy and enterprise software, suggest a maturing ecosystem that can weather global uncertainties while building for the future.

Most of the major financing rounds occurred in the biotech sector, which alone raised CHF 705 million—a new record. The previous peak was CHF 436 million in the first half of 2021.

The previously weak ICT and fintech sectors also showed signs of recovery. Investment in general ICT startups rose by 86% compared to the first half of 2024, reaching CHF 247 million. Fintech startups secured CHF 153 million, marking a 93% increase.

Investor sentiment: Pressures remain, but support continues
While investors acknowledge ongoing challenges—particularly around their own fundraising and exit strategies—they remain engaged and supportive. The shift in macroeconomic conditions over the past 12 months is undeniable, but so is the resilience of the Swiss venture capital landscape. Investors continue to back promising ventures, and the results from H1 show that quality startups are still securing funding.

New unicorn
Alternatively, the large financing rounds highlight the Swiss ecosystem's capacity to produce standout companies that attract international investors, even amid economic uncertainty. In biotech, this is driven by drug candidates rooted in advanced research and led by highly experienced teams. Notably, strong performers are not limited to healthcare: in the first half of 2025, Sygnum Bank—a digital asset specialist—was valued at over USD 1 billion in its funding round, earning it unicorn status.

Looking ahead
The outlook for the second half of 2025 is cautious but constructive. Founders and investors alike are operating in a more selective funding environment, yet the momentum built in the first six months provides reason for confidence. With fundraising volumes approaching 2021 levels, there is cautious optimism that the upward trend will continue—driven by solid startup performance and ongoing investor commitment.

Figures in detail relative to the first half of the year



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