Lilly Ventures

Lilly Ventures is the dedicated corporate venture capital arm of Eli Lilly and Company, a global pharmaceutical giant headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. Established to strategically invest in the life sciences sector, the firm primarily targets innovative companies developing therapeutics, diagnostics, and medical devices. Its investment thesis is deeply aligned with Eli Lilly's broader strategic interests, seeking to identify and support groundbreaking technologies and scientific advancements that could complement or expand the parent company's future pipeline and market reach. Lilly Ventures leverages Eli Lilly's extensive R&D expertise, industry insights, and global network to provide more than just capital to its portfolio companies.

The firm's investment strategy focuses on early to growth-stage companies, typically participating in Series A, B, and C funding rounds. Beyond financial backing, Lilly Ventures aims to foster collaborative relationships, offering strategic guidance, scientific validation, and potential partnership opportunities with Eli Lilly. This approach is designed to accelerate the development of promising innovations while also providing Eli Lilly with early access to emerging technologies and therapeutic modalities. The team comprises seasoned venture capitalists and scientific experts who understand the complexities and long development cycles inherent in the life sciences industry.

Lilly Ventures maintains a highly active investment pace, demonstrating a robust commitment to the biotech and healthcare innovation ecosystem. According to Crunchbase, the firm has made approximately 79 investments to date, showcasing a diverse portfolio across various therapeutic areas and technological platforms. Furthermore, it has achieved 19 exits, indicating a track record of successful investments and strategic divestitures. For initial investments, Lilly Ventures typically deploys first checks ranging from $5 million to $25 million, depending on the stage of the company, the capital intensity of the technology, and the strategic fit. These investments often involve co-investing with other reputable venture capital firms and institutional investors.

Through its strategic investments, Lilly Ventures plays a crucial role in shaping the future of medicine. By backing companies that are at the forefront of scientific discovery and technological innovation, it reinforces Eli Lilly's position as a leader in global healthcare. The firm's consistent activity and strategic focus underscore its commitment to driving innovation within the life sciences, ultimately aiming to bring new and improved treatments to patients worldwide.