Kurma Partners achieves first close of new EUR 250 million Biofund IV

– Kurma Partners has raised EUR 140 million, completing the first closing of Biofund IV, aiming for a total of EUR 250 million by the final closing in 2025.

– Biofund IV targets 16 to 20 new investments; the first three investments have already been made.

– The fund will focus on innovative therapeutics, balancing investments in company creation and established venture-stage companies.

– Kurma remains thematically agnostic, pursuing opportunities at the forefront of innovation to identify and create future industry trends.

– Biofund IV will engage academic scientists and leverage Kurma’s networks of experienced industry professionals to foster synergies and support portfolio companies.

– Initial investments from Biofund IV include SciRhom (autoimmune), Memo Therapeutics AG (natural immunity), and Avidicure (cancer immunotherapeutics).

– The success of Kurma’s engagement is illustrated by three acquisitions from Biofund III: Amolyt Pharma by AstraZeneca, Emergence Therapeutics by Eli Lilly, and Corlieve Therapeutics by UniQure.

– Biofund IV attracted cornerstone investors including Eurazeo, returning investor Bpifrance, and pharmaceutical investor CSL, among others.

– Thierry Laugel, co-founder and Managing Director, highlights the importance of bridging academia and industry to enhance Europe’s health innovation ecosystem.

– Rémi Droller, Managing Director, expresses excitement for the launch of Biofund IV and confidence in generating positive returns and impacting human health.