Before co-founding EQT Ventures, Lars Jörnow was part of King Digital, where, as VP of Mobile, he steered the team that introduced the worldwide sensation Candy Crush Saga - the most downloaded and highest-grossing mobile game ever.

At EQT Ventures, Lars brings a fervent enthusiasm for ideas and products with broad appeal, constantly seeking the next wave of consumer-focused companies. His experience from King’s early days, growing from 50 to over 2,000 employees, provides invaluable insights he shares. With EQT Ventures, Lars has collaborated with numerous companies, including Candela, Lenus Health, Small Giant Games (now part of Zynga), Reworks (acquired by Playtika), Peakon (now part of Workday), and many more.

EQT Ventures stands out as a prominent multi-stage VC, targeting rapidly expanding, tech-centric startups throughout Europe. With three funds, they've invested in over 110 companies, and their most recent €1.1B fund, closed at the end of 2022, is the largest early-stage focused VC in Europe.

In this fireside chat, we dove deep into Lars's journey, unpacking the valuable lessons he's gleaned as both an entrepreneur and investor. We explored his predictions for 2024, discussed the evolving landscape of European technology, and uncovered practical advice for founders aiming to establish globally recognized, category-defining companies. Additionally, we delved into Lars's investment philosophy, how he evaluates founders and their potential, and the criteria that set apart the startups he chooses to back. We also shed light on the workings of EQT Ventures, revealing how they actively support their portfolio companies and what startups can do to get on their radar.