
Frontier IP Group plc
Description
Frontier IP Group plc, an AIM-listed specialist asset management group based in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, focuses on commercializing intellectual property (IP) from universities and other public sector organizations. Unlike traditional venture capital firms, Frontier IP operates as a venture builder, actively assisting in the creation and development of spin-out companies around promising IP. Their services encompass strategic advice, business planning, securing external investment, and providing ongoing management support.
The Group's portfolio is diverse, comprising interests in approximately 19 university spin-out companies, with a strategic focus on high-growth sectors such as artificial intelligence, medical technology, and clean energy. Frontier IP's business model involves taking initial equity stakes, often in exchange for their IP commercialization services and early-stage support, rather than writing large initial cash cheques as a lead investor.
While Frontier IP facilitates significant external funding for its portfolio companies, it also co-invests alongside third-party investors. For instance, in 2023, their portfolio companies collectively raised £10.1 million (approximately $12.6 million USD) from external investors. In the same year, Frontier IP itself invested £0.9 million (approximately $1.1 million USD) into its portfolio companies. These investments are typically follow-on capital contributions to support growth and development, with individual cash investments often seen in the range of £100,000 for specific companies.
Investor Profile
Frontier IP Group plc has backed more than 20 startups, with 2 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 4 rounds, about 20% of its total and boasts 2 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Series Unknown, Private Equity, Equity Crowdfunding rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in United Kingdom, United States, Switzerland.
- Strong thematic focus on Biotechnology, Manufacturing, Electronics.
Stage Focus
- Series Unknown (35%)
- Private Equity (35%)
- Equity Crowdfunding (5%)
- Grant (5%)
- Corporate Round (5%)
- Seed (5%)
- Pre Seed (5%)
- Series A (5%)
Country Focus
- United Kingdom (90%)
- United States (5%)
- Switzerland (5%)
Industry Focus
- Biotechnology
- Manufacturing
- Electronics
- Agtech
- Farming
- Robotics
- Telecommunications
- Building Material
- Software
- Health Care
Frequently Asked Questions
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