LightOn launches Europe’s first genAI IPO

• LightOn, a French AI startup, goes public on Euronext Growth Paris to expand its global footprint
• The company aims to grow internationally, with plans for a Middle East office by 2025

What happened

French generative AI startup LightOn announced on November 8 that it has launched an initial public offering (IPO) on Euronext Growth Paris, making it the first genAI startup in Europe to go public.

In a statement, LightOn’s CEO outlined the company’s current targets. This includes achieving €40 million in sales by 2027, an EBITDA profit margin of around 40% of revenue, and approximately €35 million in annual recurring revenue (ARR). The IPO aims to further support the company’s growth. Additionally, LightOn plans to use the capital to recruit engineers, expand its sales and marketing teams. So as to invest further in technological innovation and company development.

Earlier this year, the AI specialist successfully established multiple strategic partnerships with notable hardware companies such as Orange Business and Hewlett Packard Enterprise. In addition to direct sales, LightOn is also driving sales through indirect channels. As part of the move, LightOn said it wants to gain market share at a faster pace. In order to position itself as the AI partner of choice for companies in Europe and beyond.

Also read: LightOn to become Europe’s first listed GenAI startup with Paris IPO

Also read: LightOn Makes History As Europe’s First GenAI IPO

What it’s important

LightOn’s IPO is a significant step for Europe, highlighting its push to compete with U.S. and Chinese tech firms and build a robust AI industry. This move is aligned with broader trends. That is, European nations seek to foster regional tech leadership and reduce dependency on foreign AI advancements. LightOn’s partnerships with Orange and HPE demonstrate the value of cross-industry collaboration in AI. It suggesting that partnerships can strengthen technology transfer and boost Europe’s AI ecosystem.

For small companies, LightOn’s success can be encouraging. Especially in regions aiming to foster AI innovation without relying on U.S. or Chinese platforms. Take German AI startup Aleph Alpha as an Example. It shares LightOn’s commitment to advancing European AI self-sufficiency by developing secure, explainable AI platforms for government and industry. While Aleph Alpha and LightOn operate on different scales, their commitment to European tech independence offers small enterprises a roadmap to navigate funding and expansion challenges in a competitive AI landscape. LightOn’s IPO could set a precedent for regional companies seeking investment, suggesting that with the right strategic partnerships and support, smaller tech firms can scale while retaining a focus on local innovation and regulations.