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Wilbe was founded in 2020 to support and fund scientists and engineers in transforming novel research and ideas into practical solutions. The organization addresses the challenges faced by scientists who are often constrained by traditional academic and industry frameworks. Based in the United States and Europe, Wilbe provides a platform that combines business expertise, community support, lab space access, and capital for emerging ventures.
As of now, Wilbe has backed 22 companies, creating an estimated $1.3 billion in value worldwide. The firm serves over 1,400 scientists across various research institutions in the UK, Europe, and the US. Their operational model is designed to equip scientists to transition from idea to company in as little as seven days, emphasizing the importance of community and resources in the entrepreneurial journey.
Wilbe's notable milestones include partnerships with prestigious institutions such as the University of Oxford and UT Austin, which enhance their commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration. The firm operates with a global geographic focus, particularly in North America and Europe, and continues to expand its reach and impact in the scientific community.
Wilbe invests in scientists and engineers launching companies across various fields of science and engineering, including biotech, energy, climate, healthcare, frontier technologies, food-agtech, consumer products, fintech, edtech, and robotics. The firm provides funding of up to $500,000 for initial checks, targeting early-stage ventures from Friends & Family to Series B and Growth Equity stages. Their investment strategy emphasizes supporting ventures that emerge from their platform or weekly cohorts, primarily in the US and Europe.
Wilbe's unique approach combines funding with community support and access to lab space, enabling scientists to rapidly develop their ventures. The firm actively engages with its community through programs like
Wilbe's portfolio includes 22 companies, showcasing a diverse range of sectors:
Ale Maiano: CEO with a background in venture capital and entrepreneurship, leading Wilbe's strategic vision.
Devika Thapar: COO, responsible for operational management and execution of Wilbe's programs.
Fabrizio Nicola-Giordano: CEO at WilbeLab, focusing on lab space and resources for portfolio companies.
Anna Vildaus: Operations Lead at Wilbe, overseeing day-to-day operations and program implementation.
Jesse Zondervan, PhD: Head of Platform & Systems at Wilbe, bringing expertise in scientific research and commercialization.
Alex Söderman: Finance Director at Wilbe, managing financial strategies and investment analysis.
Subaita Rahman: Community Lead at WilbeLAB, fostering connections within the scientific community.
Sreejana Basu: Front of House at WilbeLab, responsible for client interactions and support.
To pitch to Wilbe, founders should use the preferred channel available at app.wilbe.com. The pitch deck should include detailed information about the team, the scientific basis of the venture, and the market opportunity.
Wilbe typically responds within a few weeks, and they prefer warm introductions when possible. Founders are encouraged to highlight their unique value proposition and how their venture aligns with Wilbe's investment focus.
Wilbe offers weekly cohorts known as "Build Weeks," where participants engage in intensive sessions to develop their ventures. These programs include access to office hours, investment data room preparation, and connections to potential co-investors.
Specific upcoming cohorts include partnerships with institutions such as the University of Oxford and UT Austin, indicating a commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration.
On March 20, 2026, Wilbe will launch a cohort in Copenhagen, focusing on venture development.
Another cohort is scheduled for March 27, 2026, in partnership with UT Austin, aimed at fostering innovation in scientific entrepreneurship.
Wilbe will also host a cohort on April 3, 2026, on the West Coast of the US, followed by a global cohort on April 10, 2026.
Upcoming events include a collaboration with the University of Oxford on April 10, 2026, and a Longevity-focused cohort on April 17, 2026.
Additionally, a Founder Residency program is set for April 24, 2026, along with a cohort in Estonia on the same date.
What are Wilbe's investment criteria?
Wilbe focuses on investing in scientists and engineers who are launching companies across various fields of science and engineering. They look for ventures that emerge from their platform or weekly cohorts.
How can I apply or pitch to Wilbe?
Founders can pitch to Wilbe through their platform at app.wilbe.com. It is recommended to include detailed information about the venture, the team, and how the project aligns with Wilbe's focus areas.
What makes Wilbe different from other venture capital firms?
Wilbe combines funding with community support, lab space access, and business expertise, specifically tailored for scientists and engineers. Their unique platform model enables rapid venture development.
What is the geographic scope of Wilbe's investments?
Wilbe primarily operates in North America and Europe, focusing on supporting ventures that emerge from these regions.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Wilbe typically invests between $100,000 and $500,000 in their portfolio companies, depending on the stage and needs of the venture.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Wilbe have?
Wilbe engages actively with its portfolio companies through mentorship, access to resources, and connections to potential co-investors, enhancing the growth potential of their investments.
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