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Militia Hill Ventures is a venture capital firm established in 2013 by Jane Hollingsworth and Joan Lau, located in the greater Philadelphia area. The firm is dedicated to accelerating life science innovations by creating, building, and investing in companies that develop new therapies for patients. Militia Hill Ventures focuses on sectors such as gene therapy, regenerative medicine, and cancer immunotherapy, aiming to generate significant returns for its investors while addressing critical healthcare challenges.
Since its inception, Militia Hill Ventures has adopted a unique venture creation model, which combines elements of traditional venture capital with active company formation. This approach allows the firm to incubate and operate early-stage life sciences companies, often leveraging co-founder networks within the Philadelphia biotech cluster. The firm has built a portfolio of five notable companies, showcasing its commitment to fostering innovation in the life sciences sector.
Militia Hill Ventures has established itself as a key player in the Philadelphia biotech ecosystem, with a focus on therapeutics that address clear unmet medical needs. The firm emphasizes a hands-on approach to company formation, which is supported by its extensive network and relationships within the life sciences sector. This strategy not only enhances the potential for successful outcomes but also contributes to the growth of the local biotech community.
Militia Hill Ventures primarily invests in life sciences companies, with a strong emphasis on gene therapy, regenerative medicine, and cancer immunotherapy. The firm operates across various stages of investment, including pre-seed, seed, Series A, Series B, and growth equity. This broad investment strategy allows Militia Hill Ventures to engage with companies at different stages of their development, providing tailored support based on their specific needs.
The firm employs an active 'build' approach, which involves not only investing in existing companies but also creating new ventures from the ground up. Militia Hill Ventures leverages its extensive network and domain expertise to support portfolio companies in developing innovative therapies. The firm seeks to partner with founders who demonstrate a strong vision and commitment to addressing significant healthcare challenges.
Militia Hill Ventures is particularly interested in therapeutics that have clear unmet medical needs. The firm looks for opportunities to collaborate with academic institutions and medical centers, enhancing its ability to identify and develop promising technologies. This collaborative approach, combined with the firm's deep connections within the Philadelphia biotech ecosystem, positions Militia Hill Ventures as a valuable partner for life sciences entrepreneurs.
Militia Hill Ventures has built a focused portfolio of five notable companies, each contributing to advancements in the life sciences sector:
These companies exemplify Militia Hill Ventures' commitment to fostering innovation in life sciences, particularly in areas with significant unmet medical needs. The firm’s hands-on approach and deep industry connections enhance the potential for success among its portfolio companies.
Jane H. Hollingsworth - Managing Partner. Jane has a strong background in the life sciences sector, having co-founded and served as CEO of NuPathe Inc., which was sold to Teva in 2014. She also co-founded Auxilium Pharmaceuticals, which was sold to Endo. Her expertise lies in specialty pharmaceuticals and commercialization.
Joan Lau, PhD MBA - Partner. Joan has extensive experience in drug discovery and development, having served as CEO of Locus Pharmaceuticals and Azelon Therapeutics. Her academic background and leadership roles in biotech provide valuable insights into the firm's investment strategy.
Hope D’Oyley-Gay, JD - Executive-in-Residence. Hope brings legal expertise and operational experience to the firm, supporting portfolio companies in navigating regulatory and compliance challenges.
William J. Martin, PhD - Executive-in-Residence. William has a strong background in biopharmaceuticals and contributes to the firm's efforts in supporting the development of innovative therapies within the portfolio.
To pitch Militia Hill Ventures, founders should send an email to info@militiahillventures.com. It is essential to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, competitive landscape, and team qualifications.
Militia Hill Ventures appreciates clear and concise presentations that highlight the unique aspects of the startup and its potential for growth. Founders should be prepared to discuss their vision, the specific unmet medical needs they are addressing, and how their solutions stand out in the market.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are preferred, as they can facilitate a more favorable review process.
In April 2016, Militia Hill Ventures participated in the Series A funding round for Immunome, which later went public via IPO in October 2020. This exit marked a significant milestone for the firm, showcasing its ability to identify and support promising life sciences companies.
Militia Hill Ventures has also announced the opening of the MHV Innovation Hub, a physical co-location and lab infrastructure designed to enhance its capacity for venture creation. This initiative reflects the firm's ongoing commitment to building and supporting life sciences companies in the Philadelphia area.
What investment criteria does Militia Hill Ventures use?
Militia Hill Ventures focuses on life sciences companies, particularly in gene therapy, regenerative medicine, and cancer immunotherapy. The firm seeks to invest in companies that address clear unmet medical needs and demonstrate strong potential for growth.
How can founders pitch to Militia Hill Ventures?
Founders can reach out to Militia Hill Ventures via email at info@militiahillventures.com. It is advisable to include a detailed pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team background.
What makes Militia Hill Ventures different from other investors?
Militia Hill Ventures employs a unique venture creation model, actively building and incubating companies rather than solely investing in existing ones. This hands-on approach allows the firm to leverage its extensive network and domain expertise to support portfolio companies effectively.
What is the geographic focus of Militia Hill Ventures?
The firm primarily focuses on investments in North America, with a strong emphasis on the greater Philadelphia area and its biotech ecosystem.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not publicly disclosed, Militia Hill Ventures invests across various stages, including pre-seed, seed, Series A, Series B, and growth equity, indicating a flexible approach to funding.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Militia Hill Ventures have?
Militia Hill Ventures takes an active role in supporting its portfolio companies through operational support, strategic guidance, and access to resources that help accelerate the development of innovative therapies.
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