Forbion Launches €75 Million Fund for Sustainable Biotech Startups
Forbion’s new BioEconomy Fund I aims to invest €75 million in biotech companies focused on sustainable solutions in food, agriculture, materials, and environmental technology.
Focus Areas and Market Potential
Forbion BioEconomy Fund I is directed towards four critical sectors: food, agriculture, materials, and environmental technology. These sectors have been identified as key areas where biotechnology can replace unsustainable products, potentially impacting a market valued at over $2 trillion in the next decade[1]. By targeting companies in the Series A and B stages, Forbion aims to support startups with proven concepts, enabling them to scale up and bring their innovations to market.
Leadership and Advisory Team
The fund is led by Alex Hoffmann and Joy Faucher, both seasoned professionals in the venture capital industry. They are supported by a team of industry veterans, including Feike Sijbesma, Cees de Jong, Onno van de Stolpe, and Stefan Oschmann, who will serve as advisors. This blend of leadership and expertise is expected to drive the fund’s success in identifying and nurturing promising biotech startups[2].
Commitment to Sustainability
All investments made by Forbion BioEconomy Fund I will align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 13 (Climate Action)[3]. This commitment ensures that the startups supported by the fund will contribute to global sustainability efforts, addressing some of the most pressing environmental challenges.
Institutional Support and Future Goals
The initial close of €75 million was backed by prominent institutional investors such as KfW Capital, Novo Holdings, and Rentenbank. Forbion plans to raise an additional €75 million by the end of the year, bringing the total to €150 million. This capital will be used to support 10-12 biotech startups in Europe and North America, fostering innovations that aim to make the planet healthier[4].