Dementia Discovery Fund

The Dementia Discovery Fund (DDF) is a highly specialized venture capital fund headquartered in London, United Kingdom, uniquely dedicated to investing in and creating companies focused on developing novel therapeutics for dementia. Established in 2015 and managed by SV Health Investors, DDF was founded with the backing of a consortium of prominent entities, including the UK government, Alzheimer's Research UK, and leading pharmaceutical companies such as Biogen, Eli Lilly and Company, GSK, Johnson & Johnson, Otsuka Pharmaceutical, Pfizer, and Takeda Pharmaceutical. This collaborative foundation underscores its mission to address one of the most pressing global health challenges.

DDF's investment strategy is centered on identifying and nurturing early-stage biotech companies that are exploring new mechanisms of action for treating neurodegenerative diseases, moving beyond traditional approaches. The fund actively engages in company creation, providing both capital and strategic guidance to transform promising scientific discoveries into viable therapeutic pipelines. Its unique model leverages the expertise of its pharmaceutical partners and a deep scientific advisory network to de-risk investments and accelerate drug development.

Since its inception, DDF has successfully raised over $350 million across two funds, demonstrating significant commitment from its limited partners to its specialized focus. Its portfolio comprises approximately 20 companies, many of which are advancing innovative solutions in areas like neuroinflammation, synaptic dysfunction, and protein misfolding. Notable successes include the acquisition of Convergence Therapeutics by Biogen, Rinri Therapeutics by Regeneron, and the IPO of Alector, showcasing DDF's ability to identify and support high-potential ventures. The fund typically deploys initial investments ranging from $5 million to $15 million, with the capacity for substantial follow-on funding to support portfolio companies through critical development milestones.