Kurma Partners, a Paris-based venture capital firm, is ramping up its efforts in the healthcare sector with the first closing of its Biofund IV, amassing €140 million so far. This move underscores its commitment to fostering innovation in healthcare across Europe and beyond. The firm, which has been pivotal in bridging academia with industry, seeks to enhance its impact on the health innovation ecosystem by pursuing a target of €250 million by 2025. Kurma Partners’ strategic approach involves collaboration with academia and industry experts to develop a robust portfolio, thereby bolstering Europe’s position in the global healthcare market.
Kurma Partners, since its inception in 2009, has consistently focused on early-stage biotechnology and digital health, raising significant funds through Biofunds I, II, and III. These previous ventures have seen successful acquisitions, reflecting Kurma’s effective strategy in transforming scientific potential into commercial success. The recent closure also aligns with the firm’s history of engaging with experienced professionals to guide its portfolio companies towards market readiness, as seen in past successful fundraisers and investments.
What Does Biofund IV Offer?
Biofund IV aims to diversify its investments, planning to support 16 to 20 companies, with three investments already underway. These include SciRhom, focusing on autoimmune diseases; Memo Therapeutics, which innovates based on natural immunity; and Avidicure, a specialist in cancer immunotherapy. Kurma Partners will continue its balanced investment strategy, nurturing both new companies and those in the venture stage to mitigate risks and maximize returns.
Who Invests in Biofund IV?
Biofund IV has garnered the attention of several significant investors, including Eurazeo, Bpifrance, and CSL, among others. Olivier Millet of Eurazeo remarked on the firm’s expertise in commercializing scientific innovations, emphasizing the value of Kurma’s approach. Eurazeo’s participation underscores its confidence in Kurma Partners’ strategy of advancing healthcare innovation across Europe, highlighting a shared vision for impactful healthcare solutions.
Kurma Partners is part of the Eurazeo group, a European investment firm with diversified assets, including private equity and infrastructure strategies. Eurazeo supports over 600 mid-market companies and is listed on Euronext Paris, further solidifying its influence in the sector. This association provides Kurma with the resources and networks necessary to propel its mission forward.
Leading a team from offices in Paris and Munich, Kurma Partners actively participates in the European healthcare ecosystem. The firm collaborates with international research institutions, industry leaders, and investors, enabling it to maintain a dynamic presence in the healthcare market. This extensive network is crucial in supporting its ambitious investment strategies and fostering the growth of its portfolio companies.
Through Biofund IV, Kurma Partners intends to continue its successful track record of supporting promising health innovations. By leveraging its established networks and strategic investment approach, Kurma seeks to drive forward the development of impactful healthcare solutions. Stakeholders can expect diverse investments that not only promise financial returns but also contribute to advancements in healthcare technology and patient outcomes.
