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JLS Fund is a venture capital fund founded in 2019 and headquartered in New York, USA. The fund is recognized as one of the earliest dedicated VC firms in the regulated psychedelic medicine space, focusing on neuroscience, mental health, and the enabling tools and infrastructure necessary for these sectors. JLS Fund operates at the intersection of breakthrough mental-health therapeutics and traditional neuropsychiatric drug development.
As of now, JLS Fund has made over 30 investments, primarily in North America, with a specific emphasis on the United States. The firm is committed to addressing urgent unmet needs in the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders, particularly through innovative psychedelic therapies. Their notable milestone includes the acquisition of portfolio company Gilgamesh Pharmaceuticals by AbbVie for $1.2 billion, validating their investment thesis.
JLS Fund's team comprises experienced professionals with deep industry knowledge, enhancing their ability to guide portfolio companies through regulatory challenges and market entry. The firm is strategically positioned to lead in a rapidly evolving sector, focusing on plant-based medicines and psychedelic-inspired neuroplastogens.
JLS Fund invests primarily in neuromedicine, targeting companies at various stages, including pre-seed, seed, Series A, and later-stage secondaries transitioning to buyout. The fund's investment thesis emphasizes addressing urgent unmet needs in neuropsychiatric disorder treatments, particularly through innovative psychedelic therapies. Key areas of focus include plant-based medicines, psychedelic-inspired neuroplastogens, and the necessary infrastructure for their delivery.
The firm seeks to finance companies that translate neuroscience breakthroughs into patient outcomes and acquirer value. JLS Fund is particularly interested in startups that are developing solutions for conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other related disorders. Their approach combines financial returns with a commitment to leadership in a sector that is navigating significant regulatory changes and evolving market dynamics.
JLS Fund's portfolio includes a diverse range of companies focused on neuromedicine and psychedelic therapies. Notable portfolio companies include:
In addition to these notable companies, JLS Fund has invested in others that are pioneering advancements in the mental health space, contributing to a portfolio that reflects their commitment to innovative solutions in neuromedicine.
Lindsay Hoover: Managing Partner at JLS Fund, Lindsay has a background in venture capital and a strong focus on neuromedicine. She has been instrumental in shaping the fund's investment strategy and portfolio.
Simeon Schnapper: Managing Partner with over 30 years of experience in psychedelic philanthropy and research. He serves as the public-facing voice of the fund, actively participating in industry discussions and conferences.
Michael Gruber: Managing Partner who brings extensive experience in venture capital and a deep understanding of the biotech landscape. He plays a key role in evaluating potential investments and supporting portfolio companies.
Jeffrey Siegel: Investor Relations & Partnerships, Jeffrey focuses on building relationships with investors and partners, ensuring the fund's strategic alignment with its mission.
Additional advisors include Leonard Pickard, Brendan Hussey, and several others who contribute their expertise in various aspects of neuromedicine and investment.
To pitch JLS Fund, founders should use the contact email info@jls.fund or submit their pitch through the website at jls.fund. A well-structured pitch deck is essential, including details about the business model, market analysis, team background, and financial projections.
JLS Fund prefers to receive pitches via email or through their website, and they typically respond within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory. Founders should ensure their decks are concise and highlight the innovative aspects of their solutions.
In 2023, JLS Fund celebrated the successful acquisition of portfolio company Gilgamesh Pharmaceuticals by AbbVie for $1.2 billion, marking a significant milestone for the fund and validating its investment thesis in psychedelic medicine.
Throughout the year, JLS Fund has continued to expand its portfolio, actively investing in companies that are pioneering advancements in neuromedicine and psychedelic therapies. The firm has also been featured in various industry publications, highlighting its role as a leader in the psychedelic investment space.
Recent interviews with Managing Partner Simeon Schnapper have shed light on the fund's approach to navigating regulatory challenges and its commitment to supporting innovative solutions in mental health.
What are JLS Fund's investment criteria?
JLS Fund focuses on early-stage companies in the neuromedicine sector, particularly those developing psychedelic-derived and inspired therapies. They seek startups that address urgent unmet needs in neuropsychiatric disorders.
How can I apply or pitch to JLS Fund?
Founders can pitch JLS Fund through their website at jls.fund or via email at info@jls.fund. A detailed pitch deck outlining the business model, market opportunity, and team is recommended.
What makes JLS Fund different from other investors?
JLS Fund is one of the earliest dedicated VC funds in the regulated psychedelic medicine space, with a strong focus on neuromedicine. Their team has extensive experience in psychedelic research and philanthropy, providing unique insights and connections.
What is the geographic scope of JLS Fund's investments?
The firm primarily invests in North America, with a specific focus on the United States.
What is the fund size and check size range?
The specific fund size has not been publicly disclosed, but JLS Fund typically invests in early-stage rounds, including pre-seed, seed, and Series A, with check sizes varying based on the stage and needs of the company.
What kind of post-investment involvement does JLS Fund have?
JLS Fund provides strategic support to its portfolio companies, leveraging deep industry knowledge and connections to help navigate regulatory challenges and market entry.
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