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Longwall Venture Partners LLP is a venture capital firm established in 2008, located in Thame, Oxfordshire, UK. The firm focuses on early-stage investments, particularly in deeptech sectors that leverage the UK's strengths in science and research. Longwall Ventures has a strong commitment to supporting companies that aim to address significant global challenges through innovative technologies.
As of 2025, Longwall Ventures manages three funds, including the Longwall Ventures 3 ECF, which has a total fund size of $75 million. The firm has a portfolio of 36 active companies, reflecting its selective investment strategy. Longwall Ventures is closely affiliated with the Oxford University ecosystem, which enhances its access to research, talent, and potential partnerships. This affiliation has been instrumental in the firm's ability to identify and support promising startups.
Notable milestones include the successful exit of OrganOx, which was acquired for approximately $1.5 billion, marking one of the largest medtech exits in the UK. The firm continues to evolve, focusing on impactful innovations that align with its investment thesis.
Longwall Venture Partners LLP invests primarily in early-stage companies within the sectors of biotech, healthcare, frontier technologies, artificial intelligence, industrial applications, energy, and consumer products. The firm targets pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus (extension) stages, typically writing checks ranging from $1 million to $5 million. This investment strategy emphasizes businesses that not only possess innovative technologies but also demonstrate significant potential for positive societal and environmental impacts.
The firm’s investment thesis is rooted in leveraging the UK's expertise in science and research to address pressing global challenges. Longwall Ventures seeks out companies that are not only technologically advanced but also have global ambitions and the potential to create substantial change in their respective fields. This focus on deeptech aligns with the firm’s commitment to fostering advancements in healthcare and engineering.
Longwall Venture Partners has built a diverse portfolio of 36 companies, showcasing its commitment to deeptech and impactful innovations. Notable portfolio companies include:
David Denny: Managing Partner & Co-Founder. David has extensive experience in venture capital and has been instrumental in guiding Longwall Ventures' investment strategy. He has a background in engineering and has led several successful investments in deeptech.
Matthew Frohn: Managing Partner & Co-Founder. Matthew brings a wealth of knowledge in technology commercialization and has a strong track record in supporting early-stage companies. He has a background in science and engineering.
Jane Burgoyne: Managing Partner. Jane has a background in finance and venture capital, focusing on investment analysis and portfolio management. She plays a key role in evaluating potential investments.
Rebecca Todd: Venture Partner. Rebecca specializes in healthcare investments and has a strong network in the biotech sector. She provides valuable insights into the healthcare landscape.
Helen Viner: Financial Controller. Helen oversees the financial operations of Longwall Ventures, ensuring compliance and effective financial management.
Michael Penington: Co-Founder (deceased 2024). Michael was a key figure in establishing Longwall Ventures and contributed significantly to its early success.
To pitch to Longwall Ventures, founders should send an email to contact@longwallventures.com. It is recommended to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, technology, market opportunity, and team background. The firm appreciates detailed information that demonstrates the startup's potential for impact and growth.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Longwall Ventures prefers warm introductions through mutual connections, especially those within the Oxford University network.
As of February 2025, Longwall Ventures participated in OrganOx's Series F round, continuing its support for the company that developed the world's first fully automated device for liver preservation. This investment highlights the firm's ongoing commitment to impactful healthcare innovations.
In August 2025, OrganOx was acquired by Terumo for approximately $1.5 billion, marking one of the largest medtech exits in the UK and a significant milestone for Longwall Ventures as an early backer of the company.
What are Longwall Ventures' investment criteria?
Longwall Ventures focuses on early-stage deeptech companies in sectors such as biotech, healthcare, and engineering. They look for businesses with innovative technologies that have the potential for significant societal impact.
How can I apply or pitch to Longwall Ventures?
Founders can pitch to Longwall Ventures by sending an email to contact@longwallventures.com. It is advisable to include a detailed business plan and information about the team and technology.
What makes Longwall Ventures different from other VC firms?
Longwall Ventures has a strong affiliation with the Oxford University ecosystem, providing unique access to research, talent, and partnerships. This connection enhances their ability to identify and support promising startups.
What is the geographic scope of Longwall Ventures?
The firm primarily invests in companies based in the United Kingdom, leveraging local expertise and resources.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Longwall Ventures typically invests between $1 million and $5 million in early-stage companies.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Longwall Ventures have?
Longwall Ventures provides strategic guidance and support to its portfolio companies, helping them navigate the complexities of early-stage growth.
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