

VC | E468 | Sebastian Pollok on Building Visionaries Tomorrow & Europe’s Deep Tech Renaissance
May 14, 2025
Sebastian Pollok, founding partner of Visionaries Club, dives into the world of industrial deep tech and its potential for transformation. He explains why Europe’s innovation landscape needs specialized capital and advocates for new dynamics among investors. The conversation highlights the critical role of lab-based founders versus traditional MBAs and showcases case studies like Proxima Fusion. Pollok also discusses strategic portfolio construction and the importance of family offices in driving Europe's technological sovereignty. This insightful dialogue paints a vivid picture of the future of deep tech in Europe.
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Sebastian's Science to VC Journey
- Sebastian Pollok grew up fascinated by science, experimenting from a young age in his parents' pharmacy lab.
- He later switched from science to entrepreneurship, eventually starting and selling a successful e-commerce company before entering venture capital.
Bridging European Deep Tech Ecosystems
- Europe's deep industrial heritage and top research institutions form a unique ecosystem for industrial deep tech startups.
- Bridging the gaps between science, industry, and entrepreneurship is crucial for success in this space.
Family Businesses as Future Tech Leaders
- Family businesses in Europe are passionate, long-term entrepreneurs with deep commitments to future generations.
- They can become Europe's equivalent to Silicon Valley tech giants by leading industrial innovation.