Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
i&i Biotech Fund is a venture capital fund established in 2021, based in the Czech Republic. The fund focuses exclusively on life science ventures, particularly those addressing unmet medical needs through strong scientific foundations. It is embedded within the ecosystem of the Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, which enhances its access to cutting-edge research and innovation.
Currently, i&i Biotech Fund manages over €53 million in assets under management (AUM) and aims to support around 20 early-stage biotech startups. The fund is backed by the European Investment Fund (EIF) and has affiliations with i&i Prague and Charles University Innovation Prague, which are preparing to join its network. This strategic positioning allows the fund to leverage academic spinoffs and deep-science founders, particularly from Central and Eastern European research institutions.
i&i Biotech Fund invests in early-stage startups within the life sciences sector, specifically targeting drug discovery, medtech, diagnostics, and AI verticals. The fund typically provides initial investments starting at €150,000, with a primary investment range between €0.5 million and €2 million. While its primary focus is on Central and Eastern Europe, the fund is open to collaborating with teams from across Europe, enhancing its reach and impact.
The fund seeks startups with strong scientific foundations that address unmet medical needs. It emphasizes innovative solutions in drug discovery, medical devices, diagnostics, and digital health. i&i Biotech Fund is particularly interested in academic spinoffs and deep-science founders, which aligns with its mission to support groundbreaking advancements in healthcare.
i&i Biotech Fund has built a diverse portfolio of 15 companies, focusing on various aspects of life sciences. Notable portfolio companies include:
This portfolio reflects the fund's commitment to supporting innovative solutions in the life sciences sector.
Karel Kubias, MBA - Founding Partner. Karel has extensive experience in venture capital and fund management, focusing on life sciences investments.
Ivan Vohlmuth - Founding Partner. Ivan brings a wealth of knowledge in biotech and healthcare, having worked with various startups in the sector.
Barbora Šumová, Ph.D. - Partner. Barbora has a strong academic background and expertise in drug discovery and diagnostics.
Tomáš Maršálek, MBA - Founding Partner. Tomáš has over 15 years of experience in venture capital and private equity, specializing in valuations and due diligence.
Magdalena Marciniak - Advisor. Magdalena has over a decade of experience in healthcare and biotech, focusing on business development and strategic partnerships.
Pavlína Koutecká - Associate. Pavlína is a computer scientist specializing in AI and TechBio, with experience in projects at the intersection of AI and life sciences.
Martin Kovalčík - Communications Manager. Martin oversees communications and public relations for the fund.
Simona Šandová - Office Manager. Simona manages the administrative functions of the fund.
To pitch i&i Biotech Fund, founders should visit their website at inibio.eu. The fund prefers detailed decks that outline the scientific basis of the startup, market analysis, and financial projections. A warm introduction is beneficial but not mandatory.
Response times can vary, but founders can typically expect feedback within a few weeks. It is crucial to ensure that the pitch aligns with the fund's focus on life sciences and addresses unmet medical needs.
In 2023, i&i Biotech Fund made significant investments in several biotech startups, including HeartBeat.bio and Delta Life Science, reflecting its commitment to supporting innovative solutions in healthcare.
In 2024, the fund is expected to continue expanding its portfolio with new investments in companies like Antiverse and Ternary Therapeutics, which focus on drug discovery and AI.
Additionally, the fund has been recognized for its contributions to the biotech sector, receiving coverage from various industry publications, including Life Sciences Europe and the Czech Venture Capital Association.
What are the investment criteria for i&i Biotech Fund?
i&i Biotech Fund focuses on early-stage life science ventures, particularly in drug discovery, medtech, diagnostics, and AI. The fund seeks startups with strong scientific foundations that address unmet medical needs.
How can I apply or pitch to i&i Biotech Fund?
Founders can submit their pitches through the fund's website at inibio.eu. It is advisable to include a detailed business plan and information about the scientific basis of the startup.
What makes i&i Biotech Fund different from other VCs?
This fund is one of the few European venture capital firms exclusively focused on life sciences. Its strong ties to academic institutions provide unique access to cutting-edge research and innovation.
What is the geographic scope of i&i Biotech Fund?
The fund primarily focuses on Central and Eastern Europe but is open to collaborations with teams from across Europe.
What is the typical check size for investments?
i&i Biotech Fund typically invests between €150,000 and €2 million, with a sweet spot around €0.5 million to €2 million for initial investments.
What kind of post-investment involvement does i&i Biotech Fund have?
The fund actively supports its portfolio companies through mentorship, access to its network, and potential follow-on investments, ensuring that startups receive the necessary resources to grow.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.