OVNIs Ep. #105 - Francesco Ricciuti - Why Deep Tech in Europe Actually Makes Sense

In this episode of OVNIs Capital, Thomas Renaudin dives into the journey and convictions of Francesco Ricciuti , investor at Runa Capital. From his early path as an engineer working on autonomous robotics to his transition into venture capital, Francesco shares a candid perspective on what drew him to deep tech and why Europe has a unique role to play in building the next generation of hardware and computing companies.The conversation explores the future of European deep tech: reshoring industrial capabilities, the fragility of global supply chains, and the need for patient, risk-aware capital adapted to hardware timelines. Francesco also details what he looks for in founders - storytelling ability, self-awareness, and authenticity - while highlighting overlooked European tech hubs and the critical importance of energy and infrastructure as the true backbone of tomorrow’s technological progress.[00:00:00] Introduction & welcome[00:00:52] Francesco Ricciuti’s background: growing up in Rome & early ambitions[00:02:25] Engineering in Europe: strengths, limits, and hidden excellence[00:03:48] Discovering robotics, autonomous systems & the tech wave of the late 2010s[00:05:17] First startup experience: building robots, learning the hard way[00:07:38] Failure, resilience & the decision to start over[00:08:42] From founder to VC: joining Runa Capital[00:10:02] Why deep tech investing (and not software or B2C)[00:11:31] Future of computing: quantum, photonics & novel semiconductors[00:12:10] Why Europe can still win in deep tech hardware[00:14:31] Supply chains, fragility & reshoring industrial capacity[00:16:07] What’s missing in the European deep tech ecosystem[00:17:33] Hardware vs software: capital, timelines & investor mindset[00:20:28] The Series A & B gap for European deep tech companies[00:22:43] Notable European deep tech companies & ecosystems[00:24:25] Do European hardware startups need the US to scale?[00:25:10] What Francesco looks for in deep tech founders[00:28:29] Assessing founders under time pressure[00:29:47] Europe’s most underrated deep tech cities[00:32:19] Energy, infrastructure & the real legacy of the AI boom[00:33:54] Defense, geopolitics & Europe’s strategic future[00:34:52] Closing remarks & final thoughts📌 Disclaimer – Financial Information & InvestmentThe content shared in this podcast (including episodes, excerpts, descriptions, associated posts, and YouTube videos) is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute:investment advice,a recommendation to buy or sell financial instruments,portfolio management advisory services,an offer of financial securities or a solicitation to acquire any financial instrument,banking or financial solicitation within the meaning of Articles L.341-1 et seq. of the French Monetary and Financial Code.This podcast is not an investment services provider (ISP) nor a financial investment advisor (FIA) within the meaning of French and European regulations (AMF / MiFID II).📘 No Guarantee – Financial RisksThe information discussed reflects the personal opinions of the speakers, based on their professional experience.It may be incomplete, subject to change, or not applicable to your personal situation.All investments involve risks of partial or total loss, particularly in the case of private investments, technology assets, or venture capital transactions.Past performance is not indicative of future results.👤 Listener ResponsibilityEach listener / viewer remains solely responsible for their investment decisions.Before making any decision, it is strongly recommended to consult:a licensed professional financial advisor,an investment services provider, ora financial investment advisor (FIA) registered with ORIAS.🔒 Potential Conflicts of InterestThe speakers may be involved in companies, investment funds, or transactions mentioned.No statement should be interpreted as a commitment or a guarantee of performance.Hébergé par Audiomeans. Visitez audiomeans.fr/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.