21 NEXT Launches to Manage Over €10 Billion in Assets

MILAN, Sept. 3, 2026-21 NEXT, an innovative European alternative investment platform, has officially launched, combining the expertise of 21 Invest and 21 Tages. The new platform, owned 55% by Edizione, a leading European industrial and financial holding company, aims to manage assets worth more than €10 billion over the coming years.

The launch of 21 NEXT marks the integration of two long-established Italian investment firms, 21 Invest and 21 Tages, into a unified entity. 21 NEXT will focus on four main investment areas: private equity, energy transition, infrastructure, and private debt. The platform brings together 11 active funds, including a healthcare fund, three energy transition funds, a mid-market infrastructure fund, a private debt fund, a continuation fund, and four flagship private equity funds.

With a team of over 100 professionals and a presence in key European markets such as Milan, Treviso, and Paris, 21 NEXT aims to support the growth and sustainability of companies and assets in the real economy. The platform’s strategy is centered on fostering sustainable growth and innovation, aligning with the broader goals of Edizione.

"We work alongside small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to foster sustainable growth and innovation, creating tangible impact in the real economies of the countries where we operate," said Alessandro Benetton, Chairman of 21 NEXT. "Our ambition is to become a leading player in European private markets, turning vision and expertise into tangible results."

Panfilo Tarantelli, CEO of 21 NEXT, added, "Our vision is to create a company that evolves with the times and looks to the future, generating long-term value for markets, companies, assets, and people. We are committed to making the next step possible and helping shape the future with pragmatism and vision."

The transaction, which received regulatory approvals from the European Commission, the Italian Competition Authority, the Bank of Italy, and the Autorité des marchés financiers, was completed after the signing of the preliminary agreement in November 2025. The new brand identity, "Make NEXT Happen," was launched alongside the transaction, symbolizing the group's shared vision and commitment to anticipating change.

21 NEXT's strategy includes leveraging the strengths of 21 Invest and 21 Tages. 21 Invest has a track record of more than 35 years in private equity, having made over 110 investments in European mid-sized companies. Meanwhile, 21 Tages has a solid background in renewable energy and energy transition investments, with a portfolio of over 500 photovoltaic plants and 1 GW of installed capacity.

Additionally, 21 NEXT will benefit from €500 million of seed capital provided by Edizione, aimed at supporting its future growth initiatives. The platform's long-term vision is to manage assets worth more than €10 billion, positioning it as a key player in the European private markets.

"We are pleased to contribute to this project by bringing our long-standing expertise in the development and internationalisation of small and medium-sized enterprises," said Alessandro Benetton. "This project is built on strong entrepreneurial experience, guided by a clear vision and the ambition to generate a lasting and positive impact on the real economy of the countries where it operates."

21 NEXT's new visual identity, centered around a distinctive handwritten "21" symbol, reflects the group's commitment to continuous growth and constant evolution. The platform is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of alternative investments in Europe, driven by its strategic focus on sustainability and innovation.