
UCL Technology Fund
Description
The UCL Technology Fund (UCLTF) is a specialized venture capital fund dedicated to commercializing intellectual property arising from University College London's world-class research base. Managed by AlbionVC, the fund acts as a crucial bridge between groundbreaking academic discoveries and their market application, fostering the creation of new companies and technologies. Its unique mandate positions it at the forefront of deep tech innovation within the United Kingdom, specifically targeting the translation of scientific breakthroughs into tangible economic and societal value.
UCLTF's investment focus spans a broad spectrum of deep technology sectors, including life sciences, physical sciences, engineering, and digital technologies. The fund primarily invests in early-stage UCL spin-outs and start-ups, providing the vital capital and strategic support needed to navigate the complex journey from laboratory to market. By concentrating on opportunities directly emerging from UCL's extensive research, UCLTF ensures a high degree of scientific rigor and proprietary technology at the core of its portfolio companies, addressing critical challenges in various industries.
Typically, UCLTF makes initial investments ranging from approximately $635,000 to $6,350,000, demonstrating its commitment to providing substantial early-stage capital. The fund also possesses the capacity for significant follow-on investments, supporting its portfolio companies through subsequent growth rounds. Launched in 2016 with an initial fund of £50 million, the UCL Technology Fund has since expanded its capacity, with a second fund, UCL Technology Fund 2, targeting £100 million. This growth underscores its sustained commitment to nurturing high-potential ventures.
With a portfolio exceeding 50 companies, UCLTF plays a pivotal role in strengthening the UK's innovation ecosystem. Its strategic investments not only accelerate the development of transformative technologies but also contribute to job creation and economic growth, cementing UCL's position as a powerhouse of commercialization. The fund's long-term vision is to continue translating pioneering research into successful enterprises that deliver significant impact globally.
Investor Profile
UCL Technology Fund has backed more than 38 startups, with 2 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 18 rounds, about 47% of its total and boasts 5 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Seed, Series A, Series B rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in United Kingdom, United States.
- Strong thematic focus on Biotechnology, Health Care, Software.
- Typical check size: $635K – $6.3M.
Stage Focus
- Seed (39%)
- Series A (29%)
- Series B (11%)
- Series Unknown (11%)
- Pre Seed (8%)
- Convertible Note (3%)
Country Focus
- United Kingdom (95%)
- United States (5%)
Industry Focus
- Biotechnology
- Health Care
- Software
- Artificial Intelligence (Ai)
- Machine Learning
- Manufacturing
- Information Technology
- Renewable Energy
- Therapeutics
- Semiconductor
Frequently Asked Questions
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