Martin Mignot

Martin backs early-stage founders building transformative products in healthcare, AI, and financial services. He was one of the earliest investors in Revolut, partnering closely with the team from day one to help scale one of the world's most iconic fintech platforms.

Since joining Index in 2010, Martin has led early investments in breakout companies, including Algolia, Swile, Trainline, Deliveroo, Nourish, and Personio – all now valued at over $1 billion. In 2022, he helped establish Index’s New York office, expanding the firm’s U.S. presence and partnering with globally minded founders, whether they start in Europe or North America.

Martin is particularly drawn to products that leverage AI and automation to improve with each user, driving down costs, expanding access, and fundamentally reshaping industries. His track record has earned him multiple appearances on the Forbes Midas List, which recognizes the world’s top tech venture capitalists.

Outside of venture, Martin is passionate about urban design and the future of cities. He’s the founder of Happy Streets, a foundation advocating for safer, more walkable, and less car-dependent neighborhoods.

What will the city of the future look like?

Martin — First of all, there will be no cars allowed anywhere near the center. They’re inefficient, they take up too much space, and they cause congestion and pollution. It’s a massive waste of energy, and simply not the best way to get a lot of people moving throughout a confined space. Driving will be replaced by walking, cycling, e-scooters, and e-bikes that are enabled by technology and much more energy efficient. People will use smartphones, GPS, and sensors to share these vehicles, and cities will once again become delightful places to live. People will strive to get closer to the center.

If you could share one piece of advice with a founder, what would it be?

Martin — There is no one-size-fits-all. It's very easy to get drawn into advice and best practices like “this is how you should do it” and “there is only one way.” I don't think that's true. My sense from working with founders is that they are all so different. They have strong and weak points, but they are aware of what they are and aren't good at. Founders should try to find their own style in their own way and not necessarily follow what everyone tells them to do.

What’s it like to work for Index in Europe? 

Martin — It's fun! First of all, it’s a very collaborative team. There are no sharp elbows and everyone is pushing for everyone else’s success. There’s a lot of respect, which I think is very important. The people here have a huge amount of passion and curiosity and treat venture as a calling. We all keep practicing and obsessing about our craft. There is this feeling of never saying no and always pushing to get better—better at finding companies, convincing entrepreneurs we are the best choice, working with entrepreneurs in good and bad times, and improving how we help entrepreneurs achieve their visions.