EMV Capital has acquired Martlet Capital, a seed-stage venture capital firm based in Cambridge. This acquisition excludes Martlet’s investment portfolio, but EMV Capital will manage Martlet’s £23.3 million portfolio, consisting of 53 companies in the deep tech and life sciences sectors. Additionally, EMV Capital has been appointed as the investment manager for Martlet Capital.
EMV Capital, founded in 2015, is a deep tech investment firm that focuses on investing in early-stage technology companies. The firm leverages its extensive network of private investors, family offices, and corporate VCs to support portfolio companies’ growth. EMV Capital is a subsidiary of NetScientific PLC, a life sciences and technology investment group.
Martlet Capital’s team and portfolio will benefit from EMV Capital’s active portfolio management strategy and its corporate finance team’s ability to develop unique investment strategies. This collaboration will draw on EMV Capital’s Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) fund and its broad network of private investors and institutions. The acquisition will also support the growth of Martlet’s portfolio companies through EMV Capital’s Value Creation Services practice.
New Martlet Funds
EMV Capital is considering launching two new Martlet funds. The Martlet Capital Fund II will build on Martlet’s existing investment policy, although it is not expected to make significant new investments. The Martlet Growth Fund aims to provide follow-on investment opportunities for companies within the Martlet portfolio and other investments. These funds will be managed by EMV Capital if they are launched.
Increased Fee Income
The acquisition significantly increases the fee income and critical mass of EMV Capital’s funds practice. Martlet Capital’s investor base and brand, which have become credible and respected in the deep tech startup spaces in Cambridge and across the UK, will further support EMV Capital. This acquisition also aligns with the close collaboration between the two companies since EMV Capital’s investment in Martlet’s initial fundraising rounds in 2021.
Support for Founders
Martlet Capital has provided substantial support to founders, ranging from developing unique business propositions to enhancing their talent base. This support level will continue under EMV Capital’s management, leveraging its extensive experience and resources to further the growth and development of Martlet’s portfolio companies.
User-Usable Inferences
- EMV Capital manages a £23.3 million portfolio of 53 companies.
- New Martlet funds may be launched to support follow-on investments.
- Martlet’s team gains access to EMV Capital’s extensive network and resources.
The acquisition of Martlet Capital by EMV Capital marks a significant step in the collaboration between the two firms. Martlet’s portfolio companies will benefit from EMV Capital’s active portfolio management and strategic investment approach. The potential launch of new funds under the Martlet brand suggests continued growth and investment opportunities within the deep tech and life sciences sectors. This acquisition aligns with the ongoing trend of consolidations in the venture capital space, aiming to leverage synergies and enhance operational efficiencies. As the industry evolves, the combined expertise and resources of EMV Capital and Martlet Capital are set to drive innovation and growth in early-stage technology investments.
