Pfizer Ventures invests in areas of current or future strategic interest to Pfizer with the goal of remaining at the forefront of life science advances. We identify and invest in emerging companies that are developing transformative medicines and technologies that have the potential to enhance Pfizer’s pipeline and shape the future of our industry.
Pfizer Ventures: How We Work
We actively support our current portfolio companies throughout their growth cycles contributing strategic guidance in addition to capital as well as access to Pfizer expertise, when appropriate.
With a $600M capital commitment for investment, Pfizer Ventures backs private companies at all stages of development.
We have a strong focus on early-stage opportunities. But other investments, including start-ups and spinouts, are also considered in scope.
While primarily U.S. focused, international investments may represent up to 20 percent of the portfolio.
We can lead or join a syndicate of investors and will seek board representation commensurate with our investment.
Our investments are focused on potentially transformative therapeutics, with an emphasis in our core therapeutic areas: Inflammation & Immunology, Internal Medicine, Oncology, Rare Disease, and Vaccines.
We also consider platform technologies, diagnostics, drug delivery, pharmaceutical services, and other technologies that have the potential to transform drug discovery and development
Pfizer Ventures is an active investor, working with management to develop product strategy and shareholder value.
We bring a pharmaceutical perspective and have the potential to utilize our internal networks and expertise.
We have a streamlined approval process for investment decisions.
All investments have the potential for a business relationship with Pfizer.
Key Points
Focus
Emphasis primarily on therapeutics (80%)
Platforms, tools, and technologies with potential to transform drug discovery and development are also considered (20%)
Geography
U.S. focused primarily
Approximately 20 percent of investments may be outside the U.S
Investment Type
Direct investing in private companies
All stages possible, with focus on early stage
Returns
Strategic and financial
Measured over long term
Funding
$600M current capital commitment from Pfizer AUM $1.3B
Up to $15M in first investment; reserved allocation for follow-on investments
Syndication
Investing as member of a syndicate
Syndicate member must be located near company
Collaboration
Potential for business relationship with Pfizer considered in investment criteria
Can be transacted in parallel with investment or explored in the future
Influence in Development
Contribute capital and industry experience to help guide development and company growth
Scientific advisory board participation when appropriate
Control
Minority ownership positions
Board seats where appropriate
Deal Structure
Traditional VC investment
Product rights not required
Our Partners
View a list of current and former companies that we've partnered with.