Building a more diverse and resilient European VC ecosystem
Insights|November 20, 2025
We continue to partner with organizations that promote diversity in the startup and VC field, working together to strengthen the foundations of a more inclusive and forward-looking European venture capital ecosystem.
On the opening morning of Slush, leaders from across the European VC community gathered for The Investor Breakfast, co-hosted by European Women in VC, Adara Ventures, Butterfly Ventures, and the European Investment Fund (EIF). Kiira Tuohimaa-Leisio opened the session together with representatives of the co-hosting partners. She emphasized the importance of diversity as a driver of long-term value creation and reflected on Slush’s evolution over the years.
Kiira Tuohimaa-Leisio“It is inspiring to see how Slush continues to attract a broader and more diverse group of participants year after year, creating opportunities for meaningful encounters and the exchange of ideas. Diversity brings fresh perspectives and allows creativity and innovation to thrive. We have supported Finland’s VC and startup ecosystem for a long time in many roles, and we are proud to help build a more diverse and sustainable environment for the future.”
Kiira also reflected on our deep roots in committing to these principles. We trace our legacy to Agnes Lundell, Finland’s first female attorney, a pioneer whose determination continues to influence Roschier’s values more than a century later.
Today, we work closely with founders and investors, helping growth companies navigate pivotal moments such as protecting their core IP rights, securing investment, expanding internationally and strengthening governance structures. Our long-standing partnerships within the Finnish VC community, including collaborations with Slush and European Women in VC, reflect a strategic focus on supporting ambitious companies as they scale.
The breakfast also included a roundtable discussion, “Liquidity Crunch in VC: Can Secondaries Bridge the Gap?”, hosted by Kiira and Tero Jormainen. As many VC funds and their investors face delays in exits and growing pressure to free up capital, the discussion explored how secondary transactions can help ease liquidity needs. Participants examined the topic from the perspectives of general partners, limited partners and companies, highlighting both the opportunities and the challenges involved.
With founders, investors and ecosystem builders gathering to exchange insights and form new connections, the morning underscored a shared commitment to building a more diverse, innovative and sustainable VC ecosystem in Europe. As Kiira said, the ideas and relationships formed at events like this can influence the companies and collaborations of tomorrow.