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ZINC is a London-based venture capital firm and business builder founded in 2017 by Ella Goldner, Paul Kirby, and Saul Klein, a co-founder of LocalGlobe. The firm operates with a unique hybrid model that combines venture capital with venture building, focusing on early-stage investments in science-for-impact ventures. ZINC has successfully supported over 300 entrepreneurs and has invested in more than 60 ventures, establishing a strong reputation in the European startup ecosystem. The firm currently manages a fund size of approximately £28-33 million, backed by prominent investors such as Big Society Capital, Molten Ventures, and Atomico. This backing allows ZINC to provide substantial support to its portfolio companies, enhancing their chances of success in competitive markets.
ZINC's investment focus is on science-for-impact ventures that leverage deep technology and possess strong intellectual property. The firm primarily invests in sectors such as biotech, climate, healthcare, mental health, and workflow automation. ZINC targets pre-seed and seed stage companies, typically providing initial check sizes of around £250,000 (approximately $306,000). The firm seeks to partner with mission-driven entrepreneurs, including Mission Area Experts, Business and Technical leaders, and Entrepreneurial Scientists, who are dedicated to creating innovative solutions that address pressing global challenges. ZINC employs a venture builder model, offering cohort-based programs that last over 12 months, providing not only funding but also extensive business-building support, including IP strategy, team building, and access to investor networks.
ZINC has built a diverse portfolio of 45 companies, with a significant focus on HealthTech, which includes 15 companies, and Enterprise Applications, comprising 9 companies. Recent notable investments include Intace, a company specializing in sustainable packaging solutions, and Serenatis Bio, which operates in the biotech sector. Each of these investments typically begins with an initial funding of £250,000. ZINC's portfolio reflects its commitment to supporting innovative companies that are poised to make a significant impact in their respective fields, particularly in health and environmental sectors.
Ella Goldner - Co-founder, focuses on venture building and supporting entrepreneurs in their journey.
Paul Kirby - Co-founder, involved in strategic direction and investment decisions.
Saul Klein - Co-founder, known for his expertise in venture capital and startup ecosystems.
ZINC operates a venture building program that lasts for 9 months, designed to support entrepreneurs in developing their ventures. This program includes cohort-based learning and access to resources that enhance the growth of science-for-impact startups.
Recently, ZINC has highlighted its commitment to backing innovative companies through blog posts, including their support for BioHarv, which is developing battery-free medical devices. They have also outlined their mission for 2026, focusing on unlocking scientific potential for impactful solutions.
ZINC primarily invests in pre-seed and seed stage companies. This focus allows them to support early-stage ventures that are developing innovative solutions in their target sectors.
Founders interested in pitching to ZINC should prepare a detailed presentation that outlines their business model, market opportunity, and the impact of their innovation. While specific pitch submission details are not provided, a well-structured approach is recommended.
ZINC focuses on several key sectors, including biotech, climate, healthcare, mental health, and workflow automation. Their investment thesis emphasizes science-for-impact ventures that leverage deep technology.
ZINC typically provides initial investments of around £250,000, which is approximately $306,000. This check size is aimed at supporting early-stage companies in their growth journey.
ZINC primarily invests in the United Kingdom and Europe, focusing on startups that are addressing significant challenges in health and environmental sectors.
ZINC offers extensive support to its portfolio companies, including business building assistance, IP strategy development, team building, and access to a network of investors and industry experts.
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