Jos White on European Startup Investing and Growth

Jan de Vries · 2026-07-02

In this episode of the EU-Startups podcast, we sat down with Jos White, co-founder of Notion Capital and a serial entrepreneur. He reflects on his journey from building pioneering companies like Star and MessageLabs to investing in the next generation of European B2B SaaS and cloud startups. Jos shares the lessons learned around his family dining table, the pivotal moments that defined his entrepreneurial path, and what it takes to identify and support exceptional founders. Discover how Notion Capital is shaping the European tech landscape and Jos's perspective on the future of software in Europe. ### Early Influences and Mindset Jos White's entrepreneurial journey began with conversations that shaped his mindset. He emphasizes how those early discussions around his family dining table had a lasting impact on his ambition and approach to business. ### Recognizing Traction and Scalability One of the key insights Jos shares is recognizing the pivotal moments when a business idea gains real traction and scalability. He explains that these moments are often subtle but critical for long-term success. ### The VC Advantage Why does firsthand entrepreneurial experience give VCs a unique edge in advising founders? Jos argues that having been in the trenches themselves, VCs like him can offer practical advice that goes beyond theory. ### Intangible Traits of Founders Beyond metrics and pitch decks, what defines exceptional founders? Jos highlights intangible traits like resilience, vision, and the ability to adapt quickly to changing markets. ### Evolving Landscape Since 2009 Since 2009, the founder landscape has evolved significantly. Jos discusses the rise of AI and its new blind spots, noting how technology has shifted the way startups approach problems. ### European vs American Founders Key differences exist between European and American founders in approach, ambition, and execution. Jos explains that European founders often focus on sustainable growth, while American founders may prioritize rapid scaling. ### Key Points - Early entrepreneurial conversations and their lasting impact on mindset and ambition - Recognizing the pivotal moments when a business idea gains real traction and scalability - Why firsthand entrepreneurial experience gives VCs a unique edge in advising founders - The intangible traits beyond metrics and pitch decks that define exceptional founders - How the founder landscape has evolved since 2009, including the rise of AI and its new blind spots - Key differences between European and American founders in approach, ambition, and execution > "The best founders are those who can pivot quickly without losing sight of their core vision." - Jos White This episode offers valuable insights for anyone interested in European startup investing and the future of B2B SaaS.