Vectis Private Equity has announced the first closing of its fifth investment fund, Vectis 5, securing 85 million euros in fresh capital to support the growth of promising Belgian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
The fund targets ambitious entrepreneurs preparing for their next phase, offering both financial resources and operational expertise while preserving companies’ identity and entrepreneurial culture.
SMEs remain the backbone of Belgium’s economy, often facing pivotal decisions such as succession planning or international expansion. Vectis positions itself as a hands-on partner that combines capital with practical experience to help these “local champions” scale sustainably.
“Entrepreneurs today are looking for more than financing; they want a partner willing to stand shoulder to shoulder with them”, said Managing Partner Alain Grillaert. He noted that Vectis 5 will continue the firm’s long-standing strategy of supporting healthy businesses with EBITDA between 2 million euros and 8 million euros as they pursue their next growth leap.
The firm emphasizes its ecosystem-driven approach, pairing investment with know-how and access to a broad network. According to Managing Partner Lieven Coen, Vectis closely tracks more than 4,000 SMEs within its investment range and focuses on building strong management teams around founders.
A key pillar of the strategy is ‘buy and build’, using targeted acquisitions to accelerate market share gains and broaden offerings. Cross-border expansion – particularly between Belgium and the Netherlands – also presents significant opportunities, the firm said.
Since 2004, Vectis has invested in around 40 platform companies and completed more than 50 add-on acquisitions. The fund invests in both majority and minority stakes, often stepping in as a first professional partner while allowing entrepreneurs to remain in control of their businesses.
The launch of Vectis 5 also signals a new chapter internally. Founders Stefaan Vanquaethem and Walter Beyen remain closely involved, while partners Alain Grillaert, Lieven Coen and Maxime Maertens are strengthening and rejuvenating the team. Institutional investors including PMV, BNP Paribas Fortis and vdk bank have reaffirmed their commitment to the new fund.
With 85 million euros already secured, Vectis aims to reach a 100 million euros target in the coming months as it prepares its first new investments. The firm currently manages about 200 million euros in assets and has built a track record as one of the most active private equity investors in Belgium’s SME segment.
