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Unirisco is a venture capital firm founded in 2001 and based in Galicia, Spain. It holds the distinction of being the first venture capital company linked to projects originating from universities. The firm was established to accelerate the transfer of knowledge from Galician universities and research centers into commercial spin-off companies. Over its 25-year history, Unirisco has supported more than 40 innovative companies with cumulative investments exceeding 6 million EUR.
The firm is backed by the three Galician universities: A Coruña, Santiago de Compostela, and Vigo, along with major Spanish corporates such as Inditex, Abanca, Banco Santander, and Hijos de Rivera. Unirisco is registered with the CNMV (Spanish securities regulator) as a venture capital company (SCR), ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
Unirisco's mission focuses on fostering the creation of businesses that emerge from the university, technology, and R&D ecosystems, particularly in Galicia. The firm has established a reputation for its commitment to responsible investment and social impact, making it a key player in the regional startup ecosystem.
Unirisco primarily invests in companies at the pre-seed and seed stages, targeting sectors such as agtech and biotech. The firm aims to create a positive impact in Galicia and its surroundings by fostering the development of university spin-offs and technology transfer from local research centers. Unirisco's investment strategy emphasizes early-stage science and technology-based startups that offer disruptive products and technologies.
The firm employs a variety of financial instruments, including temporary capital investments, to support its portfolio companies. Unirisco's investment criteria include a focus on profitability, responsible investment practices, and social impact. Geographic focus is primarily on Galicia, with additional interests in Spain and Portugal.
Unirisco is recognized as a professional investor by the Innvierte Program of CDTI, further solidifying its role in the early-stage investment landscape.
Unirisco has collaborated with over 30 business projects since its inception, showcasing a diverse portfolio that includes notable companies such as:
Overall, Unirisco has invested in over 40 companies, demonstrating its commitment to supporting innovative startups in the region.
Inmaculada Rodríguez Cuervo - General Director. Inmaculada has extensive experience in venture capital and has been instrumental in shaping Unirisco's investment strategy since its inception.
Pablo Mosquera Martínez - Director of Investments. Pablo oversees the investment process and has a strong background in evaluating early-stage startups, particularly in the biotech sector.
Pablo Lombardero Fernández - Investment Analyst. Pablo supports the investment team with market research and analysis, contributing to the firm's decision-making process.
In 2024, Unirisco celebrated its 25th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in its history as the first university venture capital firm in Spain. The firm has made notable investments, including Batea Oncology and Inverbis Analytics, showcasing its ongoing commitment to supporting innovative startups.
Unirisco co-organized the 'Invertir en Ciencia' event, which honored Centum and Biocat as benchmarks of European innovation. This event highlighted the firm's role in promoting investment in science and technology.
Recent activities also include participation in the IV Meeting 'Investing in Science IS Profitable,' further emphasizing Unirisco's dedication to fostering a culture of investment in research and development.
What are Unirisco's investment criteria?
Unirisco focuses on early-stage companies in the agtech and biotech sectors, particularly those emerging from university and research ecosystems. The firm looks for startups that demonstrate profitability, responsible investment practices, and social impact.
How can founders apply or pitch to Unirisco?
Founders interested in pitching to Unirisco should prepare a detailed business plan that outlines their technology, market potential, and financial projections. Direct contact through their website is recommended for initial inquiries.
What makes Unirisco different from other venture capital firms?
Unirisco is unique as the first university-linked venture capital firm in Spain, with a strong focus on transforming academic research into commercial ventures. Its backing from Galician universities and major corporates enhances its credibility and support for startups.
What is Unirisco's geographic focus?
The firm primarily invests in Galicia, Spain, and Portugal, emphasizing local startups that can benefit from its extensive network and resources.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, Unirisco typically invests in the pre-seed and seed stages, which generally involves smaller initial investments to support early development.
What kind of post-investment support does Unirisco provide?
Unirisco offers strategic support and mentorship to its portfolio companies, leveraging its connections with universities and corporate partners to facilitate growth and development.
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