
Illumina Ventures
Description
Illumina Ventures is an independent venture capital firm dedicated to fostering innovation in the genomics and precision health sectors. Based in Foster City, California, the firm's core mission revolves around leveraging genomic and multi-omic technologies to significantly improve human health outcomes. While sharing a name with the genomics giant Illumina Inc., Illumina Ventures operates as a distinct entity, providing strategic capital and operational support to early-stage companies poised to transform healthcare. Their investment thesis is deeply rooted in the belief that unlocking the power of the genome is key to developing next-generation diagnostics, therapeutics, and research tools.
The firm primarily targets seed and Series A funding rounds, identifying promising startups that align with their specialized focus. Illumina Ventures has demonstrated a consistent commitment to the space, having successfully raised multiple funds, including a $230 million Fund I, a $260 million Fund II in 2020, and most recently, a $340 million Fund III in 2023. Their typical initial investment ranges from $1 million to $10 million, reflecting their strategy of providing meaningful early capital to help companies achieve critical milestones. This focused approach allows them to build concentrated portfolios of high-potential ventures.
Beyond capital, Illumina Ventures emphasizes a partnership model, offering portfolio companies access to deep scientific and industry expertise, a robust network of key opinion leaders, and strategic guidance. Their team comprises seasoned investors and scientific advisors with extensive backgrounds in genomics, life sciences, and healthcare. This specialized knowledge enables them to provide invaluable support to founders navigating the complex landscape of biotech and precision medicine, ultimately aiming to accelerate the development and commercialization of groundbreaking technologies that can profoundly impact global health.
Investor Profile
Illumina Ventures has backed more than 73 startups, with 5 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 25 rounds, about 34% of its total and boasts 6 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Series A, Series B, Series C rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in United States, France, United Kingdom.
- Strong thematic focus on Biotechnology, Health Care, Medical.
- Led 3 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $1M – $10M.
Stage Focus
- Series A (29%)
- Series B (25%)
- Series C (15%)
- Series D (10%)
- Series Unknown (10%)
- Seed (8%)
- Series E (3%)
- Debt Financing (1%)
Country Focus
- United States (85%)
- France (11%)
- United Kingdom (4%)
Industry Focus
- Biotechnology
- Health Care
- Medical
- Life Science
- Genetics
- Health Diagnostics
- Therapeutics
- Pharmaceutical
- Medical Device
- Artificial Intelligence (Ai)
Frequently Asked Questions
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