Biotope Incubator by VIB has secured €5 million in the first close of its second fund, marking a major step toward its €9 million target over the next 18 months.
The fund will enable biotope to invest €250,000 in up to 30 international early-stage biotech startups.
Biotope’s first fund invested in 16 European startups over 3 years across food, agriculture and materials. The portfolio startups have collectively attracted €30 million in follow-on financing, of which almost half in grants, achieving a capital leverage of more than 10x.
Zymofix, AmphiStar , B'ZEOS and PFx biotech have already closed their Seed round.
Biotope strongly believes that biotechnology holds the key to solving major planetary health challenges and that investing in dedicated founders who share the same vision is critical.
Its emphasis on de-risking the biotechnology helps to give the next investors peace of mind in backing a sector known for significant initial capital needs and long return times.
In addition to providing funding and a thriving ecosystem, biotope also champions diversity. The founder-first model and commitment to inclusion have delivered impactful results:
- Seventy-five percent of startups have mixed-gender founding teams — in contrast to an industry where 80% are male-only.
- Approximately 58 percent of startup employees are women.
48 high-quality full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs have been created so far, with more in the pipeline.
Contributors to the fund are Belgian Bank BNP Paribas Fortis, VC Agri Investment Fund (AIF), SFPIM relaunch, Anacura, biotope’s founding institution the Flemish Biotechnology Institute (VIB), as well as family offices The Nest and Edaphon.
Twice a year, three promising startups are selected, following a stringent selection process. They embark on a 3-week basecamp that challenges their value proposition, specifically from a scientific and technological point of view, and prepares them for a final pitch to biotope’s Investment Committee.
Selected startups receive hands-on support designed to de-risk their biotechnology, strengthen their IP and regulatory strategy, set up a solid business foundation, and get investment-ready for their next financing round.
Annick Verween, Head of biotope by VIB, said:
“This first close is an amazing milestone for us. It means we can keep saying “yes” to early, brave and diverse biotech founders creating positive impact.
The funding we provide is about more than just runway — it’s about freedom. With €250K cash investment, founders can focus on unlocking the potential of their technology without being distracted by short-term fundraising pressure.”
VIB’s Managing Director, Jérôme Van Biervliet, shared:
“We’re incredibly grateful to announce the launch of Biotope Ventures 2. Thanks to the investors, we can continue to tackle the sustainability crisis through technology and entrepreneurship. At VIB, we witness firsthand the significant impact and leverage biotope creates.”
Lead image. Biotope.
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