INSIGHT. Medical advancements that save or improve the lives of others often start in the lab, initiated and driven by the curiosity and determination of individual researchers or research teams. In Sweden, renowned for its exceptional universities, researchers have extensive opportunities to transition their discoveries from the lab to the market, transforming their research into innovations that positively impact the lives of others. However, to move from idea to impact requires more than just science.
The vital role of funding
For early-stage companies in the life science sector, an understanding of market needs as well as establishing the right partnerships are two critical factors. However, the most crucial element is strong support when it comes to funding. Access to capital is vital in converting groundbreaking research into tangible solutions that contribute to building a healthier society.
Olink – a success story
To grasp the significance of funding, let’s take a closer look at Olink, a company that started out as an ambitious project in a Swedish lab. The research team’s goal was to develop a technology capable of measuring as many different proteins as possible with unparalleled scalability. Understanding the interaction between proteins and diseases is crucial for creating the most effective treatments for various health conditions.
With its groundbreaking technology, Proximity Extension Assay, Olink has revolutionised how we understand and measure proteins. Previously, it was not possible to measure such a large number of proteins from such a small sample at such a low cost. Olink’s technology enables researchers to measure numerous proteins simultaneously from a small sample, a crucial advancement for better understanding and diagnosing diseases. The technology is employed in the rapidly expanding field of precision medicine and has accelerated critical discoveries related to various diseases.
Understanding the connection between proteins and diseases is a critical component of medical research, and Olink’s technology facilitates research that was previously not possible— and at a relatively low cost. However, developing such technology requires a substantial amount of capital. Access to capital throughout the journey was pivotal in driving Olink’s research, development, and expansion. Olink’s investors recognised the potential in the company’s innovative technology and its broad applications in healthcare and research. In March 2021, Olink went public on Nasdaq with a market value exceeding 4 billion USD, showcasing the success of its innovative approach.
Olink began with a simple idea within a research group to better understand proteins. Today, it is a global company driving advancements in precision medicine. Without early-stage funding, the company likely wouldn’t have reached its current position.
Expertly identifying the best opportunities
At Sciety, we believe in the power of innovation and the potential within Swedish research. We don’t want groundbreaking research advancements to be confined to the lab, and we understand that the proper support and resources are crucial for these ideas to make a real difference.
By providing capital and a network, we assist researchers in moving from idea to impact. We have strong relationships with prominent researchers and research groups at our Swedish universities. Many distinguished researchers also participate in our investor network, Sciety Venture Partners.
We have access to cutting-edge research and the expertise needed to identify and support the most promising companies. Over the years, we have invested in numerous companies whose operations began with an idea in a lab.
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