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Sorbonne Venture is a Paris-based venture capital fund established in November 2023, focusing on French DeepTech initiatives, particularly in healthcare and technology. Co-managed by Audacia and Aloe Private Equity, the fund is closely associated with Sorbonne University, which is recognized as France's leading institution for startup creation. Sorbonne Venture aims to foster academic innovation and support the growth of emerging startups within its ecosystem.
The fund has a target size of €100 million and plans to invest in approximately 15 startups that leverage the extensive research capabilities of Sorbonne University. This includes access to 115 research units and 7 affiliated hospital centers, such as La Pitié-Salpêtrière, which ranks among the top hospitals globally. Sorbonne Venture is positioned to play a significant role in advancing the DeepTech and HealthTech sectors in Europe.
Sorbonne Venture primarily invests in the DeepTech and HealthTech sectors, with a keen interest in areas such as AI for medical decision support, portable medical devices, drug discovery, and personalized medicine. The fund's investment strategy encompasses a variety of specific domains, including:
With a check size range of $400K to $2M, Sorbonne Venture targets early-stage investments from pre-seed to Series A. The fund seeks to back startups that utilize innovative technologies to disrupt traditional paradigms in healthcare and technology.
Sorbonne Venture's portfolio includes four notable companies that exemplify its focus on DeepTech and HealthTech:
These companies reflect Sorbonne Venture's commitment to supporting innovative solutions that leverage academic research and technological advancements.
Charles Beigbeder: Co-founder of Sorbonne Venture, Charles has a background in venture capital and entrepreneurship, focusing on technology-driven startups.
Jean-Pascal Tranié: Co-founder, Jean-Pascal brings extensive experience in investment management and has a strong track record in supporting early-stage companies.
Florence Allouche Aknin: Managing Partner, Florence has a background in finance and venture capital, specializing in healthcare investments.
Cédric James: Managing Partner, Cédric has expertise in technology investments and has led numerous successful funding rounds.
Laura Develter: VC Investor, Laura focuses on identifying promising startups within the DeepTech sector and has a keen interest in healthcare innovations.
Eilone Abensour: VC Investor, Eilone has a strong background in biotechnology and supports startups in navigating the complexities of the healthtech landscape.
Scientific Board members include:
José-Alain Sahel: An ophthalmologist and entrepreneur, José-Alain contributes his expertise in medical research and innovation.
Aurélie Jean: A scientist in numerical modeling, Aurélie brings a unique perspective on technology applications in healthcare.
David Klatzmann: An immunologist and entrepreneur, David's insights into biotechnology enhance the fund's strategic direction.
Ane Aanesland: A physics researcher, Ane's background supports the fund's focus on advanced materials and technology.
Pierre Mozer: An expert in urological surgery, Pierre provides valuable clinical insights to portfolio companies.
Catherine Lubetzki: A neurologist and entrepreneur, Catherine's experience enriches the fund's healthtech investment strategy.
To pitch Sorbonne Venture, founders should use the contact form available on their website. It is essential to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and technology details. Sorbonne Venture appreciates clarity and thoroughness in presentations.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory. The fund encourages direct outreach from passionate founders who align with their investment thesis.
In March 2026, Sorbonne Venture announced its first investments in four startups, marking a significant milestone for the fund since its launch in November 2023. The selected companies include Polygon, AustralDx, Biomemory, and EverZom, all of which align with the fund's focus on DeepTech and HealthTech.
Additionally, Sorbonne Venture has secured its first institutional partner, Mutualité française, which will support the fund's initiatives and enhance its investment capabilities. This partnership is expected to facilitate further growth and expansion of the fund's portfolio.
What are Sorbonne Venture's investment criteria?
Sorbonne Venture focuses on early-stage investments in the DeepTech and HealthTech sectors, particularly startups that leverage innovative technologies to disrupt traditional healthcare and technology paradigms. The fund typically invests in companies that are part of the Sorbonne University ecosystem.
How can I pitch to Sorbonne Venture?
Founders can pitch to Sorbonne Venture through their website contact form. It is advisable to include a detailed business plan and information about the technology or innovation being developed.
What makes Sorbonne Venture different from other investors?
Sorbonne Venture is uniquely positioned due to its association with Sorbonne University, providing portfolio companies access to extensive academic and clinical resources, including research units and affiliated hospitals.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Sorbonne Venture typically invests between $400K and $2M in its portfolio companies, depending on the stage and needs of the startup.
What stages does Sorbonne Venture invest in?
The fund invests in startups at various stages, including pre-seed, seed, and Series A, allowing it to support companies from their inception through early growth phases.
What kind of support can portfolio companies expect?
Portfolio companies benefit from strategic guidance, access to Sorbonne University's research capabilities, and support throughout their growth journey, enhancing their potential for success in the market.
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