French venture capital firm Daphni has announced the first closing of its new fund, Daphni Blue, raising €200 million (about $215 million). The firm plans to invest in 40 startups, focusing on fundamental science as a key driver of innovation. Limited partners include major players like Crédit Mutuel Arkéa and Bpifrance. Founding partner Pierre-Eric Leibovici emphasized the importance of differentiating investments while supporting sustainable technologies. Daphni is also actively recruiting talent with scientific backgrounds to enhance its investment strategy. The firm aims to prove its effectiveness in capital deployment and generating returns.