Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
Zinc is a London-based venture capital firm and business builder founded in 2017 by Ella Goldner, Paul Kirby, and Saul Klein, who is also a co-founder of LocalGlobe. The firm has established itself as a key player in the European startup ecosystem, focusing on Science-for-Impact ventures that leverage deep technology and strong intellectual property. Zinc has supported approximately 300 entrepreneurs and has invested in over 60 ventures to date.
The current fund size is estimated between 28 million and 33 million GBP, backed by notable investors including Big Society Capital, Molten Ventures, and Atomico. Zinc operates from its office located at Euston House, 24 Eversholt Street, London, NW1 1AD, England, United Kingdom.
Zinc's investment strategy emphasizes early-stage companies, specifically in the pre-seed and seed stages, with a check size of approximately 250,000 GBP (around $306,000). The firm targets sectors such as biotech, climate, healthcare, mental health, and workflow automation. Their investment thesis is centered on supporting mission-driven ventures that address urgent challenges in health and the environment.
Investments are made in companies that demonstrate strong intellectual property and deep tech capabilities. Zinc actively seeks to partner with Mission Area Experts, Business and Technical leaders, and Entrepreneurial Scientists to build impactful solutions. The firm employs a venture builder model, providing hands-on support through 9-month cohort programs designed to de-risk innovations and accelerate their development.
Zinc's portfolio consists of 45 companies, with a significant focus on HealthTech and Enterprise Applications. Notable companies in their portfolio include:
Recent investments include Intace, a company specializing in packaging, and Serenatis Bio, a biotech firm, both receiving initial investments of 250,000 GBP.
Paul Kirby - Managing Partner. Paul has extensive experience in venture capital and has been instrumental in shaping Zinc's investment strategy.
Ella Goldner - Managing Partner. Ella brings a wealth of knowledge in building and scaling startups, contributing to Zinc's venture-building efforts.
Saul Klein - Board Member. Co-founder of LocalGlobe, Saul has a strong background in supporting early-stage companies.
Alex Cheswick - Food Innovation Partnerships Manager. Alex focuses on partnerships that enhance Zinc's mission-driven initiatives.
Amy Varney - Investment Principal. Amy plays a key role in sourcing and evaluating potential investments.
David Herbada - Venture Partner. David brings expertise in scaling technology-driven ventures.
Diellza Ramadani - Senior Associate. Diellza supports the investment team in due diligence and portfolio management.
Eleanor Ford - Co-Founder & Chief People Officer, Inflection. Eleanor leads initiatives to support mid-career professionals through Zinc's programs.
Emilie Syed - Investment Principal. Emilie focuses on identifying and supporting innovative startups.
Hannah Abdel-Hadi - Product Manager. Hannah oversees product development initiatives within the portfolio.
Julia Ross - Co-Founder & Director, Inflection. Julia is involved in developing programs that support impactful career shifts.
Startups interested in pitching to Zinc should prepare a comprehensive pitch deck that includes details on the business model, market opportunity, and team qualifications. While there is no formal application portal, founders can reach out via email at info@zinc.vc. Response times may vary, but prompt communication is encouraged.
Zinc runs a venture builder program designed to assist founders in building new companies that address significant social challenges. This full-time, 12-month program provides hands-on support and resources to accelerate the development of innovative solutions. Additionally, Zinc Innovation Partners collaborates with funders and institutions to create mission-led programs that transform scientific ideas into real-world innovations.
On November 1, 2025, Zinc made its latest investment, continuing its commitment to supporting early-stage ventures. The firm has been actively publishing blog posts that highlight their investments and mission, including a focus on BioHarv, a company developing battery-free medical devices. Zinc's ongoing engagement with its community is evident through their monthly newsletter, which provides updates on their initiatives and portfolio companies.
Q?
What are Zinc's investment criteria?
Zinc invests in early-stage companies in the pre-seed and seed stages, focusing on sectors such as biotech, climate, healthcare, and mental health. They look for strong intellectual property and deep tech capabilities.
Q?
How can startups apply or pitch to Zinc?
Startups can reach out to Zinc via their website or email at info@zinc.vc. A detailed pitch deck outlining the business model, market opportunity, and team is recommended.
Q?
What makes Zinc different from other venture capital firms?
Zinc combines venture capital with a venture builder model, providing extensive business-building support, including IP strategy, team building, and access to investor networks.
Q?
What is the geographic scope of Zinc's investments?
Zinc primarily invests in startups located in Europe, with a strong focus on the United Kingdom.
Q?
What is Zinc's post-investment involvement like?
Zinc engages in active post-investment support, including mentorship and resources through their cohort-based programs, which last over 12 months.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.