Investor profile
Novartis Venture Fund
CVC
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The Novartis Venture Fund was created to foster innovation, drive significant patient benefit, and generate superior returns by nurturing and investing in innovative life science companies. Managing over USD 750 million in committed capital across more than 40 portfolio companies in North America and Europe, NVF focuses exclusively on biotechnology and biopharmaceutical companies developing novel therapeutics and platforms that address unmet patient needs — it does not invest in medtech or diagnostics. NVF prefers an active, hands-on investment style, typically taking a board seat and working closely with leadership and management. Initial equity investments range from USD 5–10 million (sweet spot ~USD 7.5 million), with total lifetime commitments of up to USD 25–30 million per company, spanning seed through later-stage rounds.
Notable quotes
“We're investing in the future health of patients worldwide. The Novartis Venture Fund was created to foster innovation, drive significant patient benefit, and generate superior returns by nurturing and investing in innovative life science companies.”
“Addressing unmet patient needs is our overriding ambition. We want not only to deliver significant return, but also to create real clinical impact.”
“Key learning for successful investments: Innovation & patient/physician benefit drive attractiveness of business; team continuity & learning is critical to long-term success; relationship & reputation is invaluable to access deals; board representation is important to influence company development.”
Team
Recent investments
| Company | Round | Size | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Artios Pharma | Series D | $120m | 2025-11 |
| NRG Therapeutics | Series B | $68m | 2025-09 |
| Citryll | Series B | $90m | 2024-12 |
| CatalYm | Series D | $150m | 2024-07 |
| Exsilio Therapeutics | Series A | $82m | 2024-06 |
| Pheon Therapeutics | Series B | $120m | 2024-05 |
| Immunitas Therapeutics | Series B | $58m | — |
| Bicycle Therapeutics | Series B | $52m | — |
| Amphista Therapeutics | Series A | — | — |
| Anaveon | Series A | — | — |
Frequent co-investors
Fit check
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