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Founded in 1996, Alta Partners is a healthcare venture capital firm based in the San Francisco Bay Area. The firm was established by four senior partners from Burr, Egan, Deleage & Co., a pioneering venture capital firm focused on early-stage investing in life sciences, information technology, and communications. Since its inception, Alta Partners has raised a total of $2.8 billion across 12 funds, emphasizing early-stage investments in life sciences and healthcare.
Alta has a proven track record, having produced over 75 FDA-approved products and funded more than 175 companies. The firm is recognized as one of the longest-running dedicated life sciences venture capital firms in the United States. Its notable milestones include significant exits such as Kite Pharma, acquired by Gilead for $11.9 billion, and Esperion Pharmaceuticals, which went public.
With a current focus on North American investments, Alta Partners maintains a small, targeted portfolio to ensure high standards and dedicated support for each investment. The firm operates from its headquarters in the San Francisco Bay Area, with additional office locations in Jackson, Wyoming.
Alta Partners primarily invests in the healthcare and life sciences sectors, targeting early-stage companies at various stages, including pre-seed, seed, Series A, Series B, and Series C. The firm emphasizes building small, focused portfolios, which allows for high standards and significant time investment in each company. This strategy enables Alta to partner closely with entrepreneurs who are innovating to address critical healthcare challenges.
The firm seeks investments in companies that are developing novel biotherapeutics and tech-enabled healthcare solutions. Alta Partners looks for founders who demonstrate a strong commitment to solving significant healthcare issues through innovative technology and scientific advancements. Their investment thesis revolves around curative therapeutics and healthcare delivery, aiming to support companies that can produce impactful healthcare solutions.
Alta Partners has a notable portfolio that includes:
In addition to its current portfolio, Alta Partners has achieved notable exits, including Kite Pharma, which was acquired by Gilead for $11.9 billion, Esperion Pharmaceuticals, which went public, and ZS Pharma, acquired by AstraZeneca. These exits highlight the firm's successful investment strategy and its focus on impactful healthcare innovations.
Dan Janney: Managing Director with extensive experience in healthcare investments. He has a strong background in venture capital and has led numerous successful investments in the biotech sector.
Pete Hudson, M.D.: Managing Director and a medical doctor with a deep understanding of the healthcare landscape. His expertise includes clinical development and regulatory affairs, making him a valuable asset to portfolio companies.
Bob More: Managing Director with a focus on life sciences investments. He has a proven track record of identifying and supporting innovative healthcare startups.
Larry Randall: Chief Financial Officer responsible for managing the firm's financial operations. He has significant experience in venture capital finance and fund management.
To pitch to Alta Partners, founders should send an email to alta@altapartners.com. It is important to include a comprehensive deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and the innovative aspects of the solution. While there is no specific application form, a well-structured email pitch is essential.
Response times may vary, but founders should expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are preferred, as they can facilitate a more favorable review of the pitch.
On February 3, 2026, Alta Partners published a blog post highlighting DispatchHealth's support for Congressional action aimed at extending access to hospital-level care at home for patients nationwide. This reflects the firm's ongoing engagement with its portfolio companies and relevant industry developments.
In August 2022, Alta Partners was named a top-performing US biotech venture fund by STAT Reports, underscoring its successful investment strategy and impact in the healthcare sector.
What are Alta Partners' investment criteria?
Alta Partners invests primarily in early-stage healthcare and life sciences companies. They focus on pre-seed, seed, Series A, Series B, and Series C stages, seeking innovative solutions that address significant healthcare challenges.
How can I apply or pitch to Alta Partners?
Founders can pitch to Alta Partners by sending an email to alta@altapartners.com. It is advisable to include a detailed overview of the business, the problem it addresses, and the innovative solutions being proposed.
What makes Alta Partners different from other venture capital firms?
Alta Partners distinguishes itself through its extensive experience in healthcare investments and a strong track record of producing FDA-approved products. The firm maintains small, focused portfolios, allowing for dedicated support and high standards for each investment.
What is the geographic scope of Alta Partners' investments?
Alta Partners primarily focuses on investments within North America, particularly in the healthcare and life sciences sectors.
What is the typical check size for investments made by Alta Partners?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, Alta Partners invests across various stages, including pre-seed to Series C, indicating a flexible approach to funding based on the needs of the portfolio companies.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Alta Partners have?
Alta Partners adds value to its portfolio companies by leveraging its extensive industry experience and network, providing strategic guidance, and facilitating connections with key stakeholders in the healthcare ecosystem.
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