London AI startups backed by 2100 Ventures recognised among Europe's rising technology firms

Two London startups backed by venture capital firm 2100 Ventures have been recognised among Europe's most promising artificial intelligence companies in Sifted's 2026 AI 100 ranking. Swap and Lupa were both included in the annual list, which highlights AI-native startups across Europe valued at less than £750m. Swap ranked ninth overall, while veterinary technology company Lupa placed 38th. Two other companies backed by 2100 Ventures, Mimic and Orbio, also featured in the ranking.

More than 1,500 businesses were considered for this year's AI 100, with companies assessed on criteria including market opportunity, competitive differentiation and business momentum. The recognition comes as 2100 Ventures was also named among Sifted's Top 50 investors and lenders behind the AI 100, ranking 28th overall. According to the company, it was the only Italian investor included in the list.

London-based Swap provides an AI-powered platform designed to help ecommerce businesses manage international operations. Founded in 2022, the company raised $100m in January 2026 following a previous £30m Series B funding round.

Lupa, founded in 2023, develops AI-powered software for veterinary practices, helping automate administrative processes, clinical documentation and client communications. The company has raised a reported £18.7m to date.

Founded in 2023 by Alessandro Benetton, Andrea Casasco and Andrea Gennarini, 2100 Ventures invests in early-stage companies across sectors including artificial intelligence, software, fintech, data and climate technology.

Alessandro Benetton said: "Europe has extraordinary entrepreneurial talent, and we believe strongly in giving the next generation of founders the backing they need to turn ambitious ideas into businesses with international impact.

"Young people represent both the present and the future of our society. We need to listen to them, help them express their talent and support them as they drive innovation and bring forward new solutions for society. For me, this is also what shared value means: supporting enterprise in a way that creates lasting benefits not only for business, but for the wider communities it serves.

"Having four 2100 Ventures portfolio companies recognised among Sifted's AI 100 is encouraging. It reflects the ambition of these founders and the importance of giving emerging talent the support, confidence and resources to challenge established models and create new opportunities. That was central to why we created 2100 Ventures."

The company said the recognition reflects its focus on identifying and supporting emerging technology businesses as they grow and expand internationally.