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Qbic Fund is an inter-university venture capital fund based in St-Denijs-Westrem, Belgium, founded in 2012. It is recognized as one of the largest spin-off funds in Europe, managing approximately €190 million across its three funds. The fund's mission is to transform technological breakthroughs from academic research into sustainable businesses. Qbic supports spin-offs and startups that leverage research from its knowledge partners, which include several Belgian universities and research institutes.
As of now, Qbic Fund has launched three funds: Qbic I, Qbic II, and Qbic III, with a total of 38 portfolio companies. The fund's active support model includes pre-investment coaching for 12-18 months before incorporation, ensuring that startups are well-prepared for their growth journey. Qbic's notable milestones include successful exits from companies like Biotalys and PharmaFluidics, showcasing its effective investment strategy.
Qbic Fund operates as a sector-agnostic venture capital fund, primarily investing in seed and early-stage companies. The fund typically participates in the first external investment round, focusing on two main categories: knowledge partner spin-offs and startups linked to knowledge partners. This emphasis on strong R&D collaborations allows Qbic to leverage the innovative potential of its academic affiliations.
The fund's investment strategy is centered around transforming technological breakthroughs into sustainable businesses. Qbic seeks companies that valorize research from its knowledge partners, which include prominent Belgian universities such as UGent, VUB, UAntwerpen, UHasselt, and ULiege, as well as research institutes like VITO and imec. The typical check size ranges from €500,000 to €2 million, depending on the stage and needs of the startup.
Qbic Fund's portfolio includes a diverse range of companies, primarily in the biotech sector. Notable portfolio companies include:
Qbic Fund has also achieved notable exits with companies such as Biotalys, which went public on Euronext Brussels, and PharmaFluidics, acquired by Thermo Fisher Scientific. These successes highlight the fund's effective investment strategy and its focus on high-potential biotech innovations.
Sofie Baeten: Managing Partner for Qbic II & III, Sofie is a co-founder of both funds and has extensive experience in venture capital and startup development.
Steven Leuridan: Partner at Qbic II & III, Steven is also a co-founder of Qbic III and brings a wealth of knowledge in supporting early-stage companies.
Cédric Van Nevel: Team member with a notable background in venture capital, Cédric has been featured in industry discussions regarding the fund's impact and strategy.
To pitch to Qbic Fund, founders should send an email to info@qbic.be. It is important to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, technology, market opportunity, and team background. The fund prefers detailed information about the startup's connection to research and any existing collaborations with knowledge partners.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions through mutual connections or knowledge partners can enhance the chances of receiving a timely response.
In 2022, Qbic Fund launched Qbic III, which had a first close at €49 million. This fund aims to expand its portfolio and continues to focus on deeptech, software, biotech, and medtech sectors.
Qbic Fund has been recognized for its exceptional exit track record, with notable exits including Biotalys, which went public, and PharmaFluidics, acquired by Thermo Fisher Scientific. These achievements underscore the fund's effective investment strategy and its commitment to supporting high-potential biotech innovations.
What are Qbic Fund's investment criteria?
Qbic Fund primarily invests in seed and early-stage companies that are either spin-offs from its knowledge partners or startups linked to these partners. The fund emphasizes strong R&D collaborations and typically participates in the first external investment round.
How can I apply or pitch to Qbic Fund?
Founders can pitch to Qbic Fund by sending an email to info@qbic.be. It is advisable to include a detailed business plan and information about the team and technology in the pitch deck.
What makes Qbic Fund different from other venture capital firms?
Qbic Fund differentiates itself through its strong ties to academic institutions and its focus on pre-investment coaching. The fund engages with startups 12-18 months before incorporation, providing guidance and support to enhance their growth potential.
What is the geographic scope of Qbic Fund's investments?
Qbic Fund primarily invests in startups located in Europe, particularly those linked to Belgian universities and research institutes.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Qbic Fund typically invests between €500,000 and €2 million in its portfolio companies, depending on their stage and specific needs.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Qbic Fund have?
Qbic Fund maintains active involvement with its portfolio companies, providing ongoing support and resources throughout their growth journey. This includes access to a network of knowledge partners and industry experts.
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