
Cambridge Innovation Capital
Description
Cambridge Innovation Capital (CIC) is a prominent European venture capital firm deeply embedded within the Cambridge, United Kingdom, innovation ecosystem. Specializing in deep technology and life sciences, CIC primarily invests in companies originating from or closely linked to the University of Cambridge and the broader UK innovation landscape. Its core mission revolves around commercializing world-class research and intellectual property, bridging the gap between scientific discovery and market-ready solutions. The firm plays a crucial role in nurturing early-stage ventures, providing not just capital but also strategic guidance and access to a vast network of scientific and industry experts.
CIC's investment strategy focuses on Seed, Series A, and Series B rounds, with a clear emphasis on long-term partnerships and significant follow-on funding. The firm seeks out companies with disruptive technologies, strong intellectual property, and experienced management teams capable of scaling globally. While initial investments typically range from £1 million to £10 million, CIC is prepared to commit substantial additional capital throughout a company's growth trajectory, often investing up to £30 million over the lifetime of a single portfolio company. This patient capital approach allows portfolio companies to achieve critical milestones and build sustainable businesses.
Since its inception, Cambridge Innovation Capital has raised significant funds to support its investment thesis. In 2022, the firm successfully closed its third fund, CIC III, at £175 million, bringing its total assets under management to over £500 million. This substantial capital base underscores its capacity to support ambitious ventures. Its portfolio boasts numerous success stories, including companies that have achieved significant clinical breakthroughs, developed cutting-edge AI solutions, or been acquired by global industry leaders, demonstrating CIC's impact on the UK's deep tech and life sciences sectors.
Investor Profile
Cambridge Innovation Capital has backed more than 90 startups, with 8 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 31 rounds, about 34% of its total and boasts 9 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Series A, Series B, Series Unknown rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in United Kingdom, United States, Ireland.
- Strong thematic focus on Biotechnology, Health Care, Software.
- Led 2 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $1.3M – $12.7M.
Stage Focus
- Series A (32%)
- Series B (27%)
- Series Unknown (14%)
- Seed (13%)
- Series C (8%)
- Series D (3%)
- Corporate Round (1%)
- Pre Seed (1%)
Country Focus
- United Kingdom (89%)
- United States (8%)
- Ireland (2%)
- Hong Kong (1%)
Industry Focus
- Biotechnology
- Health Care
- Software
- Therapeutics
- Information Technology
- Medical
- Medical Device
- Artificial Intelligence (Ai)
- Genetics
- Machine Learning
Frequently Asked Questions
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