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Main Sequence is a venture capital firm founded in 2017 and based in Australia. Established by CSIRO, Australia's national science agency, the firm focuses on supporting the commercialization of research by investing in spinouts, startups, and small to medium enterprises (SMEs) connected to Australia’s publicly funded research and development sector. The firm manages over $1 billion in capital, including the CSIRO Innovation Fund, and has completed investments in 51 companies to date.
With a commitment to facilitating the development of deep technology, Main Sequence aims to bridge the gap between research and industry. The firm has established a significant presence in the venture capital space, leveraging its connections with 28 Australian universities to enhance its investment strategy. Notable milestones include the launch of Fund 3 in 2023, which has a size of $450 million AUD, further solidifying its position in the market.
Main Sequence invests in deep technology companies that address significant global challenges. The firm targets sectors such as AI, healthcare, climate, space-tech, industrial productivity, and agtech. Investments are made from seed to Series B stages, with check sizes varying based on the specific needs of the startups. The firm emphasizes supporting innovations that tackle critical issues like decarbonization, food security, and advanced intelligence.
Main Sequence has identified six key challenge areas for investment: bridging the gap to space, decarbonizing the planet, enabling the next intelligence leap, feeding 10 billion people, reaching humanity-scale healthcare, and supercharging industrial productivity. This focused approach allows the firm to align its investments with pressing global needs, ensuring that its portfolio companies are well-positioned to make a significant impact.
Main Sequence has invested in a diverse array of notable companies, reflecting its commitment to deep technology and innovation. Key portfolio companies include:
These companies exemplify Main Sequence's focus on addressing significant global challenges through innovative technology.
Alejandra Romero: Investment Manager with experience in venture capital and technology commercialization.
Alezeia Brown: Principal, specializing in deep tech investments and portfolio management.
Alison Deans: Member of the Investment Committee, with a background in strategic investments.
Ben Hansky: Senior Legal Counsel, providing legal expertise in venture transactions.
Bill Bartee: Managing Partner, leading the firm's investment strategy and operations.
Danielle Haj-Moussa: Investment Manager, focusing on identifying and supporting innovative startups.
Elaine Stead: Principal, with a strong background in technology and investment.
Emerald Scofield: Investment Manager, specializing in early-stage investments.
Erika Enberg: Head of People, overseeing talent acquisition and organizational development.
Gabrielle Munzer: Partner, with extensive experience in venture capital and startup growth.
Grace Bird: Head of Atmosphere Pre-seed Fund, focusing on early-stage investments in climate tech.
Jack Steele: Member of the Investment Committee, contributing to investment decisions.
Jason Whitfield: Investment Manager, with expertise in technology commercialization.
Jen Baxter: Chief Operating Officer, managing the firm's operations and strategy.
Jo-Ann Fonseka: Operations Manager, ensuring efficient operational processes.
Jun Qu: Principal, focusing on deep tech investments.
Lyn Hill: Head of Finance, overseeing financial operations and strategy.
Martin Duursma: Partner, with a focus on technology investments.
Mike Nicholls: Partner, specializing in venture capital and startup growth.
Mike Zimmerman: Partner, with extensive experience in technology investments.
Peter Chen: Head of Creative Ops, managing creative strategies for portfolio companies.
Phil Morle: Partner, focusing on deep technology investments.
Sarah Pearson: Member of the Investment Committee, contributing to investment strategy.
Virginia Crawter: General Counsel, providing legal oversight for the firm.
To pitch to Main Sequence, founders should visit their website at mseq.vc. It is advisable to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and how the startup addresses a significant global challenge. The firm prefers warm introductions but will consider direct applications through their website. Response times may vary, but founders can expect feedback within a few weeks.
In 2023, Main Sequence launched its third fund, raising $450 million AUD to continue its focus on deep technology investments. This fund aims to support startups addressing significant global challenges, with a particular emphasis on sectors such as AI, healthcare, and climate.
As of March 2023, Main Sequence has completed investments in 16 companies from Fund 3, reflecting its active engagement in the deep tech space. The firm has now invested in a total of 51 companies across its funds, showcasing its commitment to bridging the gap between research and commercialization.
What are Main Sequence's investment criteria?
Main Sequence focuses on deep technology companies that address significant global challenges. They invest in sectors such as AI, healthcare, climate, space-tech, industrial productivity, and agtech, targeting startups from seed to Series B stages.
How can I apply or pitch to Main Sequence?
Founders can pitch to Main Sequence through their website at mseq.vc. It is recommended to include a clear business model, market analysis, and how the startup addresses a significant global challenge in the pitch deck.
What makes Main Sequence different from other venture capital firms?
Main Sequence is unique due to its strong ties with CSIRO and 28 Australian universities, which enhances its ability to bridge the gap between research and commercialization. This connection allows them to support startups with valuable resources and insights.
What is the geographic scope of Main Sequence's investments?
Main Sequence invests globally, focusing on deep technology companies that can address challenges on an international scale.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes can vary, Main Sequence invests from seed to Series B stages, adapting their financial support to the needs of each startup.
What is Main Sequence's post-investment involvement like?
Main Sequence provides strategic support and resources to its portfolio companies, leveraging its extensive network to assist in commercialization and growth.
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