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Guide/Training < ELTIF: Sustainable investment in long-term projects

ELTIF: Sustainable investment in long-term projects

Published on August 25th, 2025

ELTIF funds (European Long-Term Investment Funds) offer investors a solution for financing the real economy over several years. They target illiquid, value-bearing assets such as infrastructure, unlisted SMEs, sustainable real estate and innovative start-ups. This type of investment combines performance potential with a responsible vision, in line with current investor expectations.

Why opt for an ELTIF?

Long-term return potential

ELTIFs gain access to assets that are rarely accessible to individual investors, such as infrastructure or unlisted companies. This selectivity offers the potential for superior returns over the medium/long term, subject to a prolonged capital lock-in.

A strategy aligned with ESG criteria

These funds integrate ESG (environmental, social and governance) criteria, and in particular finance energy transition, circular economy and green innovation projects. They make it possible to reconcile sustainable impact and financial objectives.

How ELTIF works

Asset allocation

An ELTIF invests mainly in :

  • Infrastructure (energy, transport, digital)
  • Unlisted European SMEs
  • Sustainable real estate
  • Innovative, high-impact projects

Minimum commitment period

Regulations require a long holding period: often more than 5 years, sometimes up to 10 years. This constraint implies less liquidity, and should be factored into your asset management strategy.

Accessibility

ELTIFs are open to both institutional and retail investors. However, a minimum entry ticket (€10,000-100,000 depending on the fund) and sufficient product knowledge are required.

How to choose the right ELTIF?

Study the fund's strategy

Analyze :

  • Type of assets (infra, SME, real estate, etc.)
  • Geographic focus (France, Europe, global)
  • Degree of diversification (number of holdings)

Check management quality

Opt for funds managed by experienced companies (private equity, private debt, sustainable investment experience). At Eurazeo Wealth Solutions, rigorous project selection is a central element.

Compare fees and conditions

Take into account entry, management and performance fees, as well as exit conditions (caps, penalties, etc.).

ELTIFs' contribution to the real economy

Support for infrastructure and SMEs

By intervening in strategic projects, ELTIFs finance the growth of businesses and the development of European networks (energy, healthcare, digital).

Supporting the ecological transition

A growing share of assets is dedicated to renewable energy, recycling or carbon footprint reduction, contributing to the Green Deal objective.

Facilitating committed investment

These funds give private investors access to projects previously reserved for institutional investors, with risk pooling to secure exposure.

Risks to be aware of

Illiquidity

Early resale of units is difficult, requiring a clear vision of the investment horizon and good personal cash management.

Performance risk

The underlying assets, sometimes still in the development phase, may generate lower-than-expected returns.

External risks

Macroeconomic, legislative and geopolitical uncertainties may affect asset valuation (environmental regulations, interest rates, etc.).

How to prepare and subscribe

Choosing the right support

Before subscribing, consult a financial advisor who will select an ELTIF in line with your objectives, taking into account your constraints and profile.

Study the documentation

Carefully read the prospectus, annual reports and regulatory documents (KID, SFDR brochure) to understand commitments, fees and strategy.

Include the horizon in your planning

Immobilizing capital should not jeopardize your immediate projects. Plan your ELTIF investment as part of a long-term allocation.

Conclusion

ELTIFs are a gateway to sustainable, innovative assets, structuring a portfolio in line with the challenges of tomorrow. This type of fund is attractive for its dual potential: long-term performance and positive impact. To be successful, make sure you choose a fund with a clear strategy, a competent manager and a time horizon suited to your financial projects.