Aster Capital was launched in 2010 with a capital of €107m funded by three founding sponsors: Alstom, Solvay and Schneider Electric. Aster Capital invests in innovative start-up companies based in Europe, North America and Asia, developing new technologies that could lead to major breakthroughs in the energy, new materials and environment sectors. In addition, Aster is supported by the European Investment Fund since end 2011.

As of January 2015, Aster Capital has made 35+ investments, including 13 with a new fund. More than 10 companies have been successfully sold. Notable exits in the networking industry include ConnectBlue, CPower, Netasq, Watteco and Tracetel. Some of Aster Capital's new investments in the lighting, energy, chemicals and water treatment industries include: Lucibel (lighting), Easybike, Etogas, Avantium, Building IQ and EcoFactor.