‘A premier legal firm in the venture capital space’, Antwerp-based Cresco Advocaten supports venture capital investors, start-ups and scale-ups in investments and divestments, alongside its work for private equity funds in buy-out M&A transactions, formation, and fundraising. Founder and practice head David Dessers is praised for his ’vast experience and strategic mindset‘; Glenn L’hoëst was made partner in December 2023, combining ’deep expertise in corporate law with strong structuring skills’.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Glenn L'hoëst combines deep expertise in corporate law with strong structuring skills to ensure favourable fund terms for clients. He is detail-oriented when handling complex contracts, while maintaining a strategic outlook to align the fund structure with the client’s long-term goals. Effective communication and problem-solving.’

  • ‘CRESCO stands out as a premier legal firm in the venture capital space, renowned for its extensive experience in this domain and its professionalism. The team combines expert legal acumen with a pragmatic approach, offering clients insightful and tailored advice. Their ability to navigate complex transactions while maintaining a client-focused mindset sets them apart, making them a trusted partner for those seeking strategic guidance and long-term value.’

  • ‘David Dessers, the senior partner and founder of CRESCO, is a true leader in the legal field, especially in venture capital. His vast experience and strategic mindset make him a figure akin to a captain of industry. David’s calm and solution-oriented approach ensures that clients feel confident and well-guided through even the most complex legal matters.'

  • 'Glenn L’hoëst, a recently promoted partner, brings fresh energy and exceptional talent to the team. His hunger for success and dedication to clients make him stand out as a rising star in the legal profession. Both David and Glenn exemplify professionalism, combining a personable demeanour with a focus on practical, results-driven solutions that set them apart from competitors.’

  • ‘Very strong team around partners David Dessers and Glenn L'hoëst, with several exceptional associates.'

  • ‘Fantastic availability and responsiveness, eye for detail and in-depth understanding of the entire file and all relevant legal docs.’

  • ‘Knowledgeable about tech and software with an efficient and pragmatic approach.'

  • ‘Glenn L'hoëst is a hard-working, knowledgeable lawyer with a client-centric mindset, always trying to meet our demands in terms of deliverables and timelines, in the most efficient manner. He is very responsive and always available to jump on a call and provide ad hoc legal advice, and is therefore considered a trusted advisor.’

Key clients

  • imec.xpand II
  • Dovesco
  • SmartFin Capital - SmartFin Ventures
  • Impact Shakers Ventures
  • Partech Ventures
  • imec.istart future fund
  • Air Liquide Venture Capital
  • Novalis Ventures
  • M80 Capital
  • Xange Ventures
  • Airbus Ventures
  • Hymont Capital
  • Pitchdrive Fund IIIs
  • Angelwise
  • Innovation Industries
  • KBC Focus Fund
  • Headline
  • KBC Group
  • Credix
  • Techwolf
  • PMV
  • Welvaartsfonds
  • Main Capital
  • Birdhouse Ventures

Work highlights

  • Advised Robovision on its EUR 60 million Series A round.
  • Advised imec.xpand II and Smartfin Capital on their +EUR250 million fund formations.
  • Advised Techwolf on its USD 50 million Series A round.

Lawyers

Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
David Dessers
Cresco Advocaten
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Glenn L’hoëst
Cresco Advocaten

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

David Dessers

Other key lawyers

Glenn L’hoëst, Olivier Van Raemdonck