The Impact of the European ESG Framework on Swiss Startups: Growing Requirements from VCs

The European ESG framework is reshaping the landscape of venture capital, and Swiss startups are feeling the ripple effects.

Sustainability is no longer a distant concern in venture capital – it’s at the center of the conversation, and Swiss startups are taking note. With EU-driven sustainability regulations like the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR) and the EU Taxonomy, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) considerations are no longer optional. Swiss startups must adapt—or risk being left behind in this dynamic funding environment.

In the latest issue of The Legal Industry Reviews, we took a closer look at how these regulatory shifts are already transforming the playing field for Swiss startups and their investors. From due diligence to corporate governance to investment negotiations, ESG is reshaping how deals get done.

We covered these key takeaways:

✅ What SFDR means for VCs’ expectations

✅ How Swiss startups can proactively prepare for these demands

✅ Why and how ESG has become a key component of due diligence and contractual negotiations

✅ How sustainability is reshaping the corporate organization of startups

✅ What impact quickly integrating these requirements will have on the future of Swiss startups

📖 Read the full article by Umberto Milano and Arnault Eckert here: LIR Switzerland 4-Kellerhals Carrard.pdf

We extend our thanks to The Legal Industry Reviews for the opportunity to contribute again in this edition.

At Kellerhals Carrard Startup & VC Desk, we’re supporting startups and investors navigate this shift with precision and purpose, whether you’re building an ESG strategy from scratch or need guidance on how to align with these new standards.

Startups that can align their business practices with ESG principles today are the ones that will lead tomorrow.