
Skyline Ventures
Description
Skyline Ventures, established in 1997 in Palo Alto, California, was a prominent venture capital firm with a specialized focus on the life sciences sector. The firm primarily invested in product-focused companies across biotechnology, medical devices, and pharmaceuticals. Over its active investment period, Skyline Ventures successfully raised five distinct funds, accumulating approximately $1.5 billion in total capital under management. Their investment strategy typically involved providing significant capital to promising early to growth-stage companies within their niche.
The firm's final fund, Skyline Ventures V, closed in 2008 with a substantial $400 million in commitments. Historically, Skyline Ventures was known for its substantial first checks, with typical initial investments ranging from $5 million to $20 million per company. These investments often formed part of larger syndicates, demonstrating their capacity to lead or co-lead significant funding rounds.
However, following the deployment of its last fund, Skyline Ventures transitioned away from making new investments around 2011-2012. Many of its former partners have since moved on to establish or join other venture capital firms within the life sciences space, marking the end of Skyline Ventures' active investment period. While no longer making new commitments, its legacy includes a portfolio of successful exits and contributions to the advancement of numerous life sciences innovations.
Investor Profile
Skyline Ventures has backed more than 76 startups, with 0 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 15 rounds, about 20% of its total and boasts 33 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Series B, Series A, Series C rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in United States.
- Strong thematic focus on Biotechnology, Health Care, Medical.
- Typical check size: $5M – $20M.
Stage Focus
- Series B (30%)
- Series A (17%)
- Series C (16%)
- Series Unknown (16%)
- Series D (13%)
- Series E (3%)
- Post Ipo Debt (3%)
- Private Equity (1%)
- Post Ipo Equity (1%)
Country Focus
- United States (100%)
Industry Focus
- Biotechnology
- Health Care
- Medical
- Pharmaceutical
- Medical Device
- Therapeutics
- Health Diagnostics
- Hospital
- Genetics
- Life Science
Frequently Asked Questions
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