Novo Holdings

Novo Holdings, based in Hellerup, Denmark, serves as the holding company for the assets of the Novo Nordisk Foundation, a globally recognized philanthropic enterprise. Its core mission is to manage the Foundation's substantial assets to ensure a stable financial base for its scientific, humanitarian, and social purposes. As a leading global life science investor, Novo Holdings is dedicated to creating long-term value by investing across the entire spectrum of the life science industry, from nascent startups to established global enterprises.

The investment strategy of Novo Holdings is highly diversified, encompassing various stages and types of companies within the life science sector, including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medical technology, and industrial biotech. They operate through distinct investment teams, such as Novo Seeds, which focuses on early-stage venture capital primarily in the Nordic region, and Novo Ventures, which targets later-stage venture and growth equity opportunities globally. Additionally, their Principal Investments team undertakes significant, long-term strategic investments, often acquiring controlling or substantial minority stakes in leading life science companies worldwide. This multi-faceted approach allows them to engage with companies at virtually any stage of their development.

Novo Holdings commands significant financial resources, with total assets reported at EUR 111 billion (approximately USD 120 billion) as of the end of 2023. This substantial capital base enables them to deploy considerable sums across their portfolio. Their typical first cheque sizes vary widely depending on the investment strategy. For early-stage companies through Novo Seeds, initial investments can be as low as $1 million. Conversely, their later-stage venture and principal investments can involve initial commitments reaching up to $500 million, reflecting their capacity for large-scale strategic funding. Novo Holdings' commitment extends beyond capital, often providing strategic guidance and leveraging their extensive network to foster the growth and success of their portfolio companies, ultimately contributing to advancements in global health and sustainability.