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SCI Ventures is a philanthropic investment fund established in 2024, focused on developing innovative cures for paralysis. The fund catalyzes an investment market aimed at reversing paralysis and is backed by five leading foundations for spinal cord injury in the US and Europe. These foundations include the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, Wings for Life, International Spinal Research Trust, Promobilia Foundation, and Shepherd Center. The organization operates with the rigor of a venture capital fund, investing in early-stage companies that are developing therapies for spinal cord injuries and related conditions.
Launched with $27 million in commitments, SCI Ventures targets a total of $40 million and plans to support up to 20 companies. The fund's unique structure allows it to redeploy 100% of investment gains into additional mission-aligned companies, reinforcing its commitment to advancing spinal cord injury research and treatment. The fund's headquarters is located in Henry Wood House, Mayfair, London, UK.
SCI Ventures invests in companies that are advancing cures for paralysis-related challenges, with a focus on both long-term neural pathway restoration and immediate clinical impact. The fund typically invests at the Seed and Series A stages, targeting technologies that address spinal cord injury as well as adjacent neurological conditions. The investment strategy is guided by community priorities and scientific rigor, emphasizing clinical impact, scientific maturity, and potential for financial return.
Investment criteria include a strong emphasis on the scientific basis of the technology, the potential for significant clinical outcomes, and the ability to bridge the gap from laboratory research to clinical application. SCI Ventures seeks to support innovations that can lead to meaningful improvements in the lives of individuals affected by paralysis.
SCI Ventures has built a notable portfolio of companies focused on innovative solutions for spinal cord injuries and related conditions. Key portfolio companies include:
Adrien Cohen: Founding Managing Director, Board & Investment Committee Member. Cohen is a tech entrepreneur and investor who co-founded Tractable and Lazada, both unicorn startups with valuations exceeding $1 billion. He directs investments in consultation with neuroscientists worldwide.
Roman Rothaermel, PhD: Investment Principal with expertise in venture capital and biotechnology.
Karen Chan, PhD: Senior Investment Associate, specializing in early-stage investments in healthcare.
Ian Curtis: Board Member, ISRT and Reeve Foundation, and Chairman of HPC plc, bringing extensive experience in spinal cord injury advocacy.
Tom Londres: Board Member of the Reeve Foundation and CEO of Metro Commercial, Inc., contributing to strategic oversight.
Deborah Backus, PhD: Vice President of Research & Innovation at Shepherd Center, providing insights into clinical needs and research.
Peter Luckeneder: Global CFO of Wings for Life, overseeing financial strategies and operations.
To pitch to SCI Ventures, founders should send an email to info@sciventures.com. The pitch deck should include a comprehensive overview of the technology, market analysis, team qualifications, and clinical impact. SCI Ventures prefers detailed information on the scientific basis of the technology and its potential for real-world application. Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks.
In mid-2024, SCI Ventures launched with $27 million in commitments, aiming for a total of $40 million. The fund's establishment marked the first-ever collaboration of five leading spinal cord injury foundations across the US, UK, and EU.
A partnership with Precision Neuroscience was announced, focusing on developing brain-computer interfaces to enhance interaction for individuals with spinal cord injuries. This collaboration has been covered by various media outlets, including Fierce Biotech and Inside Philanthropy.
What are SCI Ventures' investment criteria?
SCI Ventures focuses on early-stage companies developing therapies for spinal cord injuries and related conditions. The fund emphasizes scientific maturity, clinical impact, and the potential for financial return.
How can I pitch to SCI Ventures?
Founders can reach out via email at info@sciventures.com. A detailed pitch deck should include information on the technology, team, market opportunity, and clinical impact.
What makes SCI Ventures different from traditional VCs?
SCI Ventures operates as a venture philanthropy fund, meaning 100% of investment gains are redeployed into additional mission-aligned companies. This model prioritizes social impact alongside financial returns.
What is the geographic focus of SCI Ventures?
SCI Ventures invests globally, with a particular emphasis on North America and Europe, targeting companies that align with its mission to cure paralysis.
What stages does SCI Ventures invest in?
The fund typically invests at the Seed and Series A stages, supporting early-stage companies that are developing innovative solutions for spinal cord injuries.
What kind of support can portfolio companies expect?
Portfolio companies receive not only financial backing but also access to a network of scientific advisors and industry experts, enhancing their chances of success in the market.
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