Delivering better outcomes through deep alignment with our shareholders – in conversation with Alex Myers and Michael Hammerström, Co-founders and Co-CEOs at Upllift

Michael Hammerström (MH): Almost three years ago, Alex and I founded Upliift with a mission: to give European software founders access to a new kind of investment model – one that isn’t just about quick returns, but about a long-term vision with real impact.

At first glance, investors may look superficially similar. But below the surface, each will have very clear rules about the types of companies they can invest in, and what returns they need to make within a certain time. These are often governed by those who provide the capital.

Many have short-term Private Equity behind them and look for strong performance almost immediately. They may take on debt to finance their investments, which further sharpens their short-term focus. Founders need to look carefully at these factors as they could have big implications for how their business is run post-acquisition.

We carefully selected shareholders who shared our vision for European software’s future and embodied our core values and goals. Here we take a closer look at the people who stand behind Upliift.

Who are Upliift’s Shareholders?

Alex Myers (AM): Upliift’s shareholders are a rare group of hand-picked organisations. They’re at the intersection of purpose-driven investing, deep software knowledge, and a commitment to the long haul.

These aren’t your typical speculators looking to make a fast buck. They’re the opposite – all provide flexible capital in the service of long-term value creation. Michael and I spent time with each investor before cementing our partnership, deliberately shaping Upliift’s model alongside them. Today, our three largest shareholders are:

• Sator Grove Holdings – a permanent capital holding company, which is in effect the Family Office of the two founders Rick Buhrman and Paul Buser, together with their network
• A not-for-profit foundation, set up for charitable purposes
• A leading university endowment fund.

Together with our team, these partners bring diverse skills, networks, experiences, and leadership across software, investment, and operations. This collective expertise allows us to make a real difference.

Deep Expertise in Software

AM: Software investment – especially in specialised, mission-critical B2B European companies – is a world of its own. It’s a domain with unique metrics and valuation models, and if investors don’t understand the details, they can unintentionally hinder growth.

Every one of our strategic shareholders understands the nuances of software. They get our model and understand the long-term factors that drive growth, like regulatory shifts and skill shortages.

True Commitment to the Long Run

AM: In today’s market, some “permanent” investors have a Private Equity fund in the background and are pressured by their demands. This focus on fast gains creates a misalignment that drives short term behaviour from day one.

We’ve learned that closed-ended funds often favour investors, not the companies they fund. At Upliift, we offer something different: genuine permanent equity. Our shareholders’ far-reaching outlook gives us the freedom to prioritise our companies’ success over time – not to plan for a quick exit.

Values-Driven Philosophy

MH: From the start, we sought partners who believe in doing business for the right reasons. Our shareholders follow value-based philosophies focused on longevity and positive social impact. They support a range of initiatives, from environmental sustainability, to education, cancer research and poverty alleviation.

This values-driven approach resonates strongly with the founders we back. It reassures them and their teams that their investors are committed to achieving meaningful impact alongside financial success; driving sustainable growth that benefits both business and society.

Superior Risk-Adjusted Returns

MH: Our shareholders see massive potential in European software companies with revenue between €1–25 million – companies that are often overlooked by other investors.

A unified portfolio of high-quality, diversified businesses with steady growth and low churn appeals to our investors. They understand that this approach provides better returns over time than chasing the next “shiny” start-up.

The companies we back are more capital efficient. The combination of low attrition, long life-time customer value, along with consistent and sustainable growth, often leads to superior risk-adjusted returns.

Building a Lasting Legacy

AM: Backed by this select group of mission-driven shareholders, Upliift is redefining the investment landscape for European software. Together, we’re building Upliift into a strong business that does the right things for the long term – for our customers, employees, and shareholders, as well as a range of broader philanthropic outcomes.

Alex Myers and Michael Hammerström are the Co-Founders and Co-CEOs of Upliift. Learn more about their story and mission.

To learn more about Sator Grove, listen to Rick Buhrman and Paul Buser – –Joys of Compounding – Apple Podcasts