Sesame’s Major Funding Achievement
In a significant development for the European tech landscape, Sesame, a prominent Spanish HRTech startup, has successfully secured up to €50 million in growth funding. This financial boost comes through a novel equity-free instrument introduced by BBVA Spark. This funding model is particularly designed for Software as a Service (SaaS) companies, allowing them to scale their operations globally while retaining full ownership and control over their business.
The CEO of Sesame, Albert Soriano, expressed that this new financial instrument represents a transformative shift for the European technology startup ecosystem. He emphasized that it will empower the company to expand its international footprint while continuing its commitment to innovation in artificial intelligence, specifically tailored for talent management solutions.
The Context of Funding in HRTech
As 2025 progresses, the HRTech and SaaS sectors in Europe are witnessing a consistent influx of capital. Notable funding rounds have occurred in various countries, illustrating a vibrant ecosystem. For instance, Zelt in the UK raised €5.7 million, while Skillvue in Italy secured €5.5 million. Shyfter from Belgium and Maki in France also made headlines with their own funding successes, further highlighting a robust financial environment for HR technology companies.
In this context, Sesame’s funding announcement stands out not only for its substantial amount but also for its innovative approach to financing. Unlike the majority of funding rounds in the HRTech space which tend to rely on traditional equity-based models, Sesame is leveraging a more mature funding mechanism that reflects its established revenue streams and growth potential.
BBVA Spark’s Role and Future Implications
Miguel Ángel Alcalá, Head of BBVA Spark in Europe, elaborated on the initiative, stating that their focus is on supporting high-growth companies that are reshaping the economy through technological advancements. He noted that their partnership with Sesame is aligned with a shared vision of promoting sustainable growth driven by data and a people-centric approach.
Founded in Valencia in 2015, Sesame has rapidly ascended to become a leading player in the HRTech sector, automating administrative tasks and enhancing operational efficiency for over 15,000 clients. The company’s annual recurring revenue now exceeds €20 million, and its workforce has expanded to over 350 employees based in the innovative La Marina district of Valencia.
The new funding will facilitate Sesame’s ambitious plans to enhance product development while reinforcing its international market presence. The startup is already operational in Brazil and has more than 1,000 clients in Mexico, with plans to increase its footprint in Italy, Portugal, France, and Germany.
This partnership with BBVA Spark not only highlights a growing trend in European startup financing but also showcases how alternative funding models are gaining traction among founders who seek to scale without compromising their ownership stakes. As the landscape evolves, the BBVA Spark and Sesame collaboration may serve as a benchmark for future financial strategies in the tech sector.
The implications of this funding go beyond immediate growth; they signal a shift towards more flexible, performance-based financing options that could redefine how tech startups approach expansion in a competitive global market. As Sesame continues to innovate and adapt, it remains poised to play a pivotal role in the future of AI-driven HR solutions across Europe.
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