The Growth Pod

Author: Genero

The Growth Pod is brought to you by Genero, a leading growth agency in the Nordics. We interview marketing experts, business leaders, and entrepreneurs to uncover the stories and strategies behind profitable growth. Learn more: https://generogrowth.com
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#74 Axel Ahlström – robotics, industrial tech and the future of manufacturing in Europe
Thursday, 5 March, 2026

Axel Ahlström sits at the intersection of manufacturing and technology. After working with major industrial companies in private equity, he co-founded Kvanted, a new 70M€ industrial deep tech VC fund.We talk about the future of manufacturing in Europe, what it’s like to start a new VC fund, robotics hype vs reality, deep tech investing, green and red flags in startups, and more.(0:00) Introduction(0:30) Axel’s background: engineering, consulting and private equity(3:25) The idea behind Kvanted(8:17) European innovation and why Zurich became a focus(12:45) Starting a new VC fund(22:15) Robotics hype vs reality(28:05) Industrial manufacturing and the role of startups(38:17) Why Europe needs manufacturing(42:00) What Axel looks for in startups: green flags and red flags(51:37) Contrarian beliefs, lessons learned, and career adviceLearn more:https://generogrowth.comhttps://www.kvanted.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/axel-ahlstr%C3%B6m-22b9372b