The European life sciences venture firm Forbion has secured a landmark €2 billion (over $2.2 billion) fundraise across two investment funds, marking a significant expansion of its biotech investment capabilities despite challenging market conditions.
The fundraising success includes €1.2 billion for Forbion Growth Opportunities III and €890 million for Forbion Ventures VII, both exceeding their initial targets. This achievement brings the firm's total assets under management to more than €5 billion, reinforcing its position as a major player in life sciences investment.
Strategic Investment Focus
The newly secured funds will follow distinct investment strategies, with the Growth Opportunities fund targeting later-stage biotechnology companies across North America and Europe. Meanwhile, the Ventures fund will concentrate on early-stage therapeutics startups, including company formation initiatives. Each fund aims to invest in approximately 15 companies, totaling a portfolio expansion of around 30 new investments.
Track Record of Success
Forbion's investment approach has yielded impressive results, particularly in recent months. The firm has maintained an active investment portfolio of 58 companies and has demonstrated leadership by spearheading or co-leading 88% of initial investment rounds across 26 companies between its two funds.
The past year has been especially notable, with six portfolio company exits valued at €1 billion or more. Recent successful exits include:
- GSK's €1 billion acquisition of Aiolos Bio, a lung drug developer
- The purchase of Mariana Oncology, specializing in radiopharmaceuticals
- The acquisition of Yellow Jersey Therapeutics, an antibody drug innovator
Market Impact and Future Strategy
"We are delighted to have achieved this record fundraising against a backdrop of volatile market conditions," stated Robbert van de Griendt, General Partner of Investor Relations and Impact at Forbion. This success is particularly noteworthy given the current investment climate, where venture firms have generally favored more conservative investment approaches.
The increased capital base will enable Forbion to expand both the number and size of its biotech investments. Sander Slootweg, Managing Partner and co-founder, emphasized this point: "With greater levels of capital, we are able to extend more support to our portfolio companies as they grow and seek to maximize their potential."
Investment History and Experience
Since its inception over two decades ago, Forbion has completed 128 investments, building a substantial track record in the life sciences sector. This extensive experience, combined with the new funds, positions the firm to continue its role as a key supporter of innovative biotechnology companies during varying market conditions.
