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EMV Capital plc is a venture capital investment group founded in 2018 and headquartered in London, England. The firm operates with a focus on early-stage companies that possess strong intellectual property, particularly in the life sciences and deep tech sectors. EMV Capital is publicly traded on the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange, which provides it with a unique structure compared to traditional venture capital firms.
As of mid-2025, EMV Capital manages an impressive portfolio of over 70 companies, with assets under management (AUM) ranging from £103 million to £105 million. The firm has expanded its reach through the integration of the Martlet Capital Fund, which significantly increased its seed-stage investments. EMV Capital has offices in both London and Cambridge, allowing it to tap into the vibrant UK tech ecosystem.
Notable milestones include successful exits from companies like Abcam and Cambridge CMOS Sensors, which validate the firm's investment strategy and selection process. EMV Capital's commitment to generating superior returns for its investors is evident in its proactive management approach and extensive network of third-party investors.
EMV Capital invests primarily in early-stage companies within the deep tech and life sciences sectors. The firm employs a capital-efficient investment strategy that leverages its PLC balance sheet, manages the Evergreen EIS and Martlet Capital Funds, and engages in syndicated investments with a network of third-party investors. This multifaceted approach allows EMV Capital to support companies at various stages of growth, from pre-seed to seed-plus.
The firm emphasizes proactive management and value creation services, which are integral to its investment strategy. EMV Capital seeks to partner with founders who possess strong intellectual property and innovative technologies that have the potential to define the future. Their focus on healthcare and biotech aligns with global trends towards advanced medical solutions and sustainable technologies.
Investment checks typically align with seed-stage funding, although specific amounts are not disclosed. EMV Capital's geographic focus spans globally, with a particular emphasis on opportunities within Europe and the United Kingdom.
EMV Capital manages a diverse portfolio of over 70 companies, showcasing its commitment to the life sciences and deep tech sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
EMV Capital has also achieved notable exits with companies such as Abcam, Cambridge CMOS Sensors, Arachnys, and Audio Analytic, further demonstrating its effective investment strategy.
Dr. Ilian Iliev: Chief Executive Officer. Dr. Iliev has a background in venture capital and has led numerous successful investments in the life sciences sector.
Ed Hooper: Executive Director, General Counsel and Group Company Secretary. Hooper brings extensive legal expertise and has been instrumental in navigating regulatory frameworks for the firm.
Dr. Charles Spicer: Non-Executive Chair. Dr. Spicer has a wealth of experience in the biotech industry and has served on the boards of several successful companies.
Dr. Jonathan Robinson: Senior Independent Director. Dr. Robinson has a strong background in investment management and strategic planning.
Anesh Patel: Group Chief Financial Officer. Patel oversees the financial operations of EMV Capital and has a track record in managing venture capital funds.
To pitch to EMV Capital, founders should utilize the contact email info@emvcapital.com or submit their pitch through the website. It is important to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and financial projections.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. EMV Capital prefers warm introductions, so leveraging connections within their network can enhance the chances of a successful pitch.
EMV Capital operates the Evergreen EIS and Martlet Capital Funds, which focus on capital-efficient investments in early-stage companies. These funds are designed to support startups with strong intellectual property and innovative technologies.
Eligibility for these funds typically includes being an early-stage company within the deep tech or life sciences sectors. Founders interested in applying can reach out via the EMV Capital website or through the provided contact email.
In mid-2025, EMV Capital completed a follow-on fundraising for the Martlet Capital Fund, further expanding its investment capabilities. In September 2025, the firm reported a strategic secondary in a healthcare portfolio company, generating £320,000 in proceeds at a 2.5x return.
EMV Capital has achieved a remarkable 12.9x multiple on direct stakes, creating £10.4 million in fair value from an initial investment of £0.9 million over three years. The firm's portfolio has grown significantly, increasing from £12 million AUM with 8 companies to £103-105 million AUM with over 70 companies.
Recent updates highlight EMV Capital's active engagement in seed to pre-Series A investments, with multiple deals occurring each year through its balance sheet and syndicate investments.
What are EMV Capital's investment criteria?
EMV Capital focuses on early-stage companies within the deep tech and life sciences sectors. They look for startups with strong intellectual property and innovative technologies that have the potential for significant growth.
How can founders apply or pitch to EMV Capital?
Founders can pitch their ideas through the EMV Capital website or by emailing info@emvcapital.com. It is recommended to include a detailed business plan and financial projections in the pitch deck.
What makes EMV Capital different from other venture capital firms?
EMV Capital is publicly listed on the AIM market, which provides a unique structure compared to traditional venture capital firms. Their capital-efficient investment strategy and proactive management approach also set them apart.
What is the geographic scope of EMV Capital's investments?
EMV Capital invests globally, with a strong focus on opportunities within Europe and the United Kingdom.
What is EMV Capital's post-investment involvement like?
EMV Capital provides proactive management and value creation services to its portfolio companies, supporting them from early stages through to successful exits. This includes strategic guidance and access to their extensive network of third-party investors.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, EMV Capital typically engages in seed-stage funding, which suggests a focus on capital-efficient investments.
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