The Recursive’s weekly roundup aims to cover key tech developments across Central and Eastern Europe, as well as the growing impact of CEE-born founders on the global stage. Take a look at the latest news in funding, startup milestones, and emerging trends tied to the region’s innovation potential.
CEE startup highlights
Bulgarian–British startup Lab Thread has launched the beta version of its SaaS platform for managing genetic and research labs, six months after raising $1 million from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II via Mercia Ventures. Founded by Deyan Sultov and Ryan Cawood, the company is targeting the fast-growing market for digital, precision-driven laboratory management.
Ukrainian investment holding InSoft.Partners has exited its minority stakes in Indeema and Forbytes, while increasing its ownership in Inoxoft. Founder and managing partner Vitalii Gorovyi, though the deal values were not disclosed.
New CEE funds
Aneli Capital has launched a €35 million fund to back early-stage startups across the Baltics, Poland and wider CEE, focusing on ICT, robotics, space, photonics and energy. The fund plans around 20 investments over five years, with an average ticket of €1.5 million, aiming to offer fast decisions and founder-friendly terms to help regional startups scale.
Poland’s Cofounder VC has launched a new fund targeting early growth-stage tech startups with proven revenue and market validation, completing a €12 million first close toward a €30 million target. The fund will invest €1–3 million in about eight companies, combining capital with hands-on support and access to a network of 250+ business angels.
Investing For Purpose AKES (IFP Fund) has launched with a €25.4 million first close backed by the European Investment Fund under EquiFund II. The Athens-based fund will invest in startups with measurable environmental, social and educational impact, aiming to strengthen Greece’s position as a hub for impact-driven entrepreneurship.
Across the globe
Paramount Skydance has launched a hostile $108.4 billion all-cash bid for Warner Bros. Discovery, just days after WBD agreed to an $82.7 billion deal with Netflix. Paramount is offering $30 per share, about $18 billion more in cash than Netflix’s mixed cash-and-stock proposal, and is targeting the entire company, not just its studios and streaming unit.
CEO David Ellison said the Netflix deal undervalues WBD and exposes shareholders to greater uncertainty.
Updated: 12 December 2025
