
Sunstone Life Science Ventures
Description
Sunstone Life Science Ventures is a prominent European venture capital firm headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark, specializing in early-stage investments within the life sciences sector. The firm's core focus is on novel pharmaceutical ingredients intended for human therapeutic applications, encompassing a broad spectrum of diseases with high unmet medical needs. Sunstone differentiates itself through a deep scientific understanding and a hands-on approach, aiming to support the translation of groundbreaking research into viable clinical solutions. Their investment philosophy is rooted in identifying and nurturing companies that possess strong scientific foundations and the potential for significant patient impact.
The firm typically engages in Series A funding rounds, providing crucial early capital to promising biotech and pharma ventures. Sunstone's initial cheque sizes generally range from €3 million to €10 million, translating to approximately $3.24 million to $10.8 million USD, depending on the prevailing exchange rates. They are known for often leading or co-leading investment rounds, demonstrating their commitment and belief in their portfolio companies. Sunstone has successfully raised significant capital across multiple funds, including their Sunstone Life Science Ventures Fund IV, which closed at €170 million in 2018, and their more recent Sunstone Life Science Ventures Fund V, which secured €200 million in 2022. This substantial capital base allows them to not only make initial investments but also to provide follow-on funding as their portfolio companies advance through clinical development.
Geographically, Sunstone maintains a strong presence across Europe, with a particular emphasis on the Nordic region, leveraging its robust life science ecosystem. Beyond capital, the firm offers strategic guidance, operational support, and access to an extensive network of industry experts, scientific advisors, and potential partners. Their team comprises seasoned professionals with backgrounds in drug development, clinical research, and venture capital, enabling them to provide valuable insights to their portfolio companies. Sunstone's long-term vision is to foster the growth of innovative life science companies that can bring transformative therapies to patients worldwide, thereby contributing significantly to global health advancements.
Investor Profile
Sunstone Life Science Ventures has backed more than 59 startups, with 0 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 9 rounds, about 15% of its total and boasts 14 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Series Unknown, Series A, Series B rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in Denmark, Switzerland, United States.
- Strong thematic focus on Health Care, Biotechnology, Medical.
- Typical check size: $3.2M – $10.8M.
Stage Focus
- Series Unknown (25%)
- Series A (24%)
- Series B (17%)
- Series C (15%)
- Seed (5%)
- Series D (3%)
- Post Ipo Equity (3%)
- Private Equity (2%)
- Pre Seed (2%)
- Debt Financing (2%)
Country Focus
- Denmark (44%)
- Switzerland (14%)
- United States (12%)
- Sweden (7%)
- United Kingdom (3%)
- The Netherlands (3%)
- France (3%)
- Ireland (3%)
- Germany (3%)
- Finland (3%)
Industry Focus
- Health Care
- Biotechnology
- Medical
- Therapeutics
- Pharmaceutical
- Life Science
- Genetics
- Health Diagnostics
- Wellness
- Medical Device
Frequently Asked Questions
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