Breakout Ventures

Breakout Ventures, established in 2016 and based in San Francisco, is an early-stage venture capital firm. It invests in innovative, science-driven startups operating at the intersections of technology, biology, materials, and energy, with a focus on bio-based solutions, healthcare, and sustainability sectors. The firm manages two funds, Breakout Ventures Fund (2016) and Breakout Ventures II (2021), both targeting early-stage biosciences and related startups.

James Chan

CFO

Julia Moore

Managing Partner

Nima Ronaghi Ph.D

Principal

Dana Watt

Partner

32 past transactions

EnPlusOne Biosciences

Venture Round in 2025
EnPlusOne Biosciences specializes in developing an enzymatic-based RNA synthesis platform designed to overcome limitations of traditional chemical synthesis methods. Their innovative approach aims to facilitate large-scale production and expand accessibility to diverse nucleotide modifications for emerging RNA therapeutics.

Copernic Catalysts

Seed Round in 2024
Copernic Catalysts is a company focused on developing sustainable chemical catalysts and processes aimed at reducing the carbon footprint across various industries. The firm designs innovative zero- and low-carbon technologies that align with the current economic landscape of the chemical sector. Its advanced catalysts and processes support the production of sustainable chemicals and synthetic fuels, helping clients enhance energy efficiency, lower production costs, and access affordable zero-carbon chemicals. Through these efforts, Copernic Catalysts contributes to a more sustainable future in chemical manufacturing.

Passkey

Seed Round in 2024
Passkey Therapeutics is pioneering a new class of medicines, Synergistic Multifunctional Therapeutics (SMThs). It is designed to address complex diseases by targeting rare combinations of proteins that work together.

CytoVale

Series D in 2024
CytoVale, Inc. is a medical technology company based in San Francisco, California, that specializes in developing innovative biomarkers utilizing the mechanical properties of individual cells, a field known as mechanomics. Founded in 2013, the company employs microfluidics technology to effectively route and physically probe single cells, allowing for the simultaneous measurement of multiple biomarkers. This approach aims to enhance early detection and diagnosis of immune-mediated diseases, particularly sepsis. By leveraging cell mechanics and machine learning, CytoVale seeks to revolutionize the diagnostic landscape, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing treatment costs in healthcare.

TFC Therapeutics

Pre Seed Round in 2023
TFC Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on creating innovative biologics aimed at addressing critical factors in cancer recurrence and metastasis. The company develops technology that employs monoclonal antibodies designed to specifically bind to receptors on tumor-initiating cells, known as TMH cells. This targeted approach activates the immune system to effectively destroy these cells, offering new treatment possibilities for cancer within the healthcare sector. Through its research and development efforts, TFC Therapeutics seeks to contribute significantly to advancements in cancer therapy.

A-Alpha Bio

Series A in 2023
A-Alpha Bio, Inc. is a biotechnology company specializing in synthetic biology and advanced quantitative measurement of protein interactions to facilitate drug development. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Seattle, Washington, the company offers its proprietary AlphaSeq platform, which enables high-throughput mapping of protein-protein interactions. This technology allows for the simultaneous identification and quantification of interactions among thousands of protein pairs, streamlining the drug discovery process by aiding in the identification of potential drug targets and enhancing the understanding of disease mechanisms. By providing biologics and molecular glue discovery and optimization services, A-Alpha Bio supports pharmaceutical companies in optimizing binding and specificity to multiple target proteins. The team comprises synthetic biologists, structural biologists, and next-generation sequencing experts dedicated to overcoming challenges in the drug development process.

Parallel Bio

Seed Round in 2022
Parallel Bio is a biotechnology company focused on advancing the discovery and development of immunotherapies. The company's platform integrates best-in-class human immune organoids with computational methods to provide deep insights into human health and disease. This approach aims to overcome current barriers in immunotherapy research, accelerating the path to effective treatments. Parallel Bio's tools are designed to enhance the development of various therapies, including cell therapies, antibody therapies, and vaccines, offering medical professionals novel perspectives on human biology.

EnPlusOne Biosciences

Seed Round in 2022
EnPlusOne Biosciences specializes in developing an enzymatic-based RNA synthesis platform designed to overcome limitations of traditional chemical synthesis methods. Their innovative approach aims to facilitate large-scale production and expand accessibility to diverse nucleotide modifications for emerging RNA therapeutics.

Canaery

Seed Round in 2022
Canaery is a company focused on developing innovative neurotechnology aimed at digitizing the sense of smell. Its primary product is a neural interface that analyzes the scent fingerprint of various objects to detect hazardous compounds. This technology is particularly valuable in environments such as ports and inspection points, where it can enhance security measures by identifying dangerous materials without relying solely on traditional methods like x-rays or cameras. By enabling clients to discern both the nature of the objects and their states, Canaery aims to improve safety and efficiency in high-stakes inspection scenarios.

Twelve

Series B in 2022
Twelve is a company that focuses on providing innovative cashless payment solutions tailored for various industries, including sports, events, catering, and museums. The company has developed a user-friendly online cash register and payment system designed primarily for sports clubs, which facilitates point-of-sale transactions and supports digital pricing along with debit and credit payments. Twelve aims to enhance the payment experience for clients by offering software modules, ordering solutions, and communication tools, thereby helping entrepreneurs and organizers achieve greater success in their initiatives.

Twelve

Series B in 2022
Twelve, formerly known as Opus 12, is a Berkeley, California-based company that specializes in recycling carbon dioxide emissions into valuable chemicals and fuels. Founded in 2015, the company has developed innovative technology that can be integrated with any source of CO₂ emissions. By utilizing only water and electricity as inputs, Twelve transforms captured carbon dioxide into essential products such as methane, ethylene, and ethanol. The firm aims to provide a cost-competitive alternative to petroleum-derived chemicals and fuels, thereby addressing carbon emissions while simultaneously creating economically viable solutions.

Surf Bio

Seed Round in 2022
Surf Bio is a preclinical biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative therapeutic solutions through its next-generation surfactant technology. This novel biotechnology platform aims to enhance drug effectiveness across various therapeutic areas, including diabetes, oncology, infectious diseases, and gene therapy. By utilizing this advanced technology, Surf Bio seeks to provide healthcare organizations worldwide with access to improved drugs that can better address the needs of patients suffering from critical diseases.

Phantom Neuro

Seed Round in 2022
Phantom Neuro is a neurotechnology company dedicated to enhancing robotic limb rehabilitation through innovative muscle-machine interfaces. By integrating neurotechnology with robotic systems, the company focuses on improving mobility and facilitating precise control of robotic limbs, which allows for more natural movement and better user experiences. Phantom Neuro employs a minimally invasive approach, aiming to provide effective rehabilitation tools and improve the quality of life for individuals with mobility challenges. Additionally, the company explores various applications of its technologies, contributing to the advancement of assistive robotics and addressing the needs of individuals with limb differences.

Circuit Clinical

Venture Round in 2022
Circuit Clinical is an integrated research organization that has emerged from the experience of a physician engaged in clinical research within a private practice. Established in 2015, the company aims to enhance the way clinical research is conducted by emphasizing physician and participant engagement. Circuit Clinical leverages a network of over 1 million patients, utilizing direct HIPAA/FDA-compliant Electronic Medical Record reviews to identify motivated participants. The organization provides research services that facilitate access to clinical research, guiding both experienced and novice community physicians and their patients through each step of the clinical research process. Through its technology products and focus on participant and physician experience, Circuit Clinical seeks to improve research site quality and patient safety, creating a more efficient pathway for clinical research.

Zymochem

Seed Round in 2021
ZymoChem, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Emeryville, California, founded in 2013. The company specializes in developing microbes and bioprocesses that convert renewable feedstocks, such as sugars, into bio-based chemicals. ZymoChem's innovative platform focuses on creating eco-friendly chemical solutions while minimizing carbon dioxide emissions during production. By engineering novel microbes and establishing cost-effective bioprocesses, the company enhances the biological conversion of renewable materials into various industrial chemicals. This approach not only lowers production costs for clients but also contributes to sustainability by promoting a carbon-efficient manufacturing process. ZymoChem aims to support the transition to a real-zero economy by providing alternatives that reduce carbon emissions across product development, usage, and disposal.

Parthenon Therapeutics

Series A in 2021
Parthenon Therapeutics is inventing a novel class of anti-cancer therapies that reprogram the tumor microenvironment (TME). The interplay between cancer cells and their surrounding microenvironment is relevant in drug development as manycancers use the TME to build barriers that shield immune system attack. One approach, PRTH-101, breaks these barriers to overcome recalcitrant cancers. Based on research, the company is designing a portfolio of drug candidates to treat the right patients at the right time.

Twelve

Series A in 2021
Twelve, formerly known as Opus 12, is a Berkeley, California-based company that specializes in recycling carbon dioxide emissions into valuable chemicals and fuels. Founded in 2015, the company has developed innovative technology that can be integrated with any source of CO₂ emissions. By utilizing only water and electricity as inputs, Twelve transforms captured carbon dioxide into essential products such as methane, ethylene, and ethanol. The firm aims to provide a cost-competitive alternative to petroleum-derived chemicals and fuels, thereby addressing carbon emissions while simultaneously creating economically viable solutions.

Circuit Clinical

Series B in 2021
Circuit Clinical is an integrated research organization that has emerged from the experience of a physician engaged in clinical research within a private practice. Established in 2015, the company aims to enhance the way clinical research is conducted by emphasizing physician and participant engagement. Circuit Clinical leverages a network of over 1 million patients, utilizing direct HIPAA/FDA-compliant Electronic Medical Record reviews to identify motivated participants. The organization provides research services that facilitate access to clinical research, guiding both experienced and novice community physicians and their patients through each step of the clinical research process. Through its technology products and focus on participant and physician experience, Circuit Clinical seeks to improve research site quality and patient safety, creating a more efficient pathway for clinical research.

CytoVale

Debt Financing in 2021
CytoVale, Inc. is a medical technology company based in San Francisco, California, that specializes in developing innovative biomarkers utilizing the mechanical properties of individual cells, a field known as mechanomics. Founded in 2013, the company employs microfluidics technology to effectively route and physically probe single cells, allowing for the simultaneous measurement of multiple biomarkers. This approach aims to enhance early detection and diagnosis of immune-mediated diseases, particularly sepsis. By leveraging cell mechanics and machine learning, CytoVale seeks to revolutionize the diagnostic landscape, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing treatment costs in healthcare.

Immusoft

Venture Round in 2020
Immusoft Corporation is a biotechnology company focused on developing an autologous cell therapy platform aimed at treating a range of human diseases through its proprietary Immune System Programming (ISP) technology. Founded in 2009 and based in Seattle, Washington, Immusoft specializes in modifying the DNA of a patient's immune cells to create biofactories capable of producing gene-encoded medicines, including essential proteins and enzymes that may be missing or defective. The company's innovative approach involves reprogramming B cells, a type of immune cell, which enables them to manufacture and secrete various antibodies. This process not only provides a potential long-term solution for patients but also positions Immusoft at the forefront of biotechnology in addressing rare and infectious diseases.

Checkerspot

Series B in 2020
Checkerspot, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Berkeley, California, founded in 2016. It specializes in the development of sustainable performance materials derived from microalgae and biobased oils. The company focuses on innovating materials at a molecular level, utilizing its expertise in molecular foundry, chemistry, material science, and fabrication technology. Checkerspot aims to expand the range of molecular building blocks available for high-performance materials, particularly in industrial applications such as polyurethanes and textile finishes. Through its pioneering approach, Checkerspot contributes to the advancement of sustainable materials in various industries.

ShiraTronics

Series A in 2020
ShiraTronics, Inc. is a company focused on developing and commercializing innovative therapies for the treatment of chronic migraines. Incorporated in 2018 and headquartered in Ireland, with an additional location in Minneapolis, Minnesota, ShiraTronics utilizes advanced neuromodulation technology to address the unmet clinical needs of patients suffering from debilitating migraine headaches. The company's mission is to transform the lives of those affected by this widespread and disabling disorder, which impacts millions globally, by providing effective solutions that enhance their quality of life.

CytoVale

Series B in 2019
CytoVale, Inc. is a medical technology company based in San Francisco, California, that specializes in developing innovative biomarkers utilizing the mechanical properties of individual cells, a field known as mechanomics. Founded in 2013, the company employs microfluidics technology to effectively route and physically probe single cells, allowing for the simultaneous measurement of multiple biomarkers. This approach aims to enhance early detection and diagnosis of immune-mediated diseases, particularly sepsis. By leveraging cell mechanics and machine learning, CytoVale seeks to revolutionize the diagnostic landscape, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing treatment costs in healthcare.

Curie

Seed Round in 2019
Curie Co is a life science company dedicated to developing sustainable alternatives to harmful chemicals by engineering enzymes and marine biomaterials. The company focuses on replacing petrochemical-based ingredients with biodegradable, biobased materials, branded as OceanSafe, derived from recycled marine sources. Curie Co aims to provide consumers with everyday products available at major retailers like Walmart, Target, and CVS, ensuring that these items remain affordable while minimizing environmental impact. By integrating advanced design methodologies, the company enables businesses to adopt eco-friendly packaging solutions without sacrificing quality or performance. Through its innovative approach, Curie Co aspires to become a trusted supplier and leader in the field of engineered enzymes and biopolymers.

Checkerspot

Series A in 2019
Checkerspot, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Berkeley, California, founded in 2016. It specializes in the development of sustainable performance materials derived from microalgae and biobased oils. The company focuses on innovating materials at a molecular level, utilizing its expertise in molecular foundry, chemistry, material science, and fabrication technology. Checkerspot aims to expand the range of molecular building blocks available for high-performance materials, particularly in industrial applications such as polyurethanes and textile finishes. Through its pioneering approach, Checkerspot contributes to the advancement of sustainable materials in various industries.

Phylagen

Series A in 2019
Phylagen Inc., established in 2014 and based in San Francisco, specializes in microbiome data analytics. The company employs DNA sequencing and machine learning to analyze environmental microbes, providing insights for diverse industries such as healthcare, agriculture, and manufacturing. Phylagen's core offering is an automated biosensor designed to map and understand microbial genetics indoors, enabling early pathogen detection (including COVID-19), allergen monitoring, and overall microbial health management for human well-being and safety.

Immusoft

Series B in 2019
Immusoft Corporation is a biotechnology company focused on developing an autologous cell therapy platform aimed at treating a range of human diseases through its proprietary Immune System Programming (ISP) technology. Founded in 2009 and based in Seattle, Washington, Immusoft specializes in modifying the DNA of a patient's immune cells to create biofactories capable of producing gene-encoded medicines, including essential proteins and enzymes that may be missing or defective. The company's innovative approach involves reprogramming B cells, a type of immune cell, which enables them to manufacture and secrete various antibodies. This process not only provides a potential long-term solution for patients but also positions Immusoft at the forefront of biotechnology in addressing rare and infectious diseases.

CytoVale

Series B in 2017
CytoVale, Inc. is a medical technology company based in San Francisco, California, that specializes in developing innovative biomarkers utilizing the mechanical properties of individual cells, a field known as mechanomics. Founded in 2013, the company employs microfluidics technology to effectively route and physically probe single cells, allowing for the simultaneous measurement of multiple biomarkers. This approach aims to enhance early detection and diagnosis of immune-mediated diseases, particularly sepsis. By leveraging cell mechanics and machine learning, CytoVale seeks to revolutionize the diagnostic landscape, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing treatment costs in healthcare.

Quince Therapeutics

Debt Financing in 2017
Quince Therapeutics is a preclinical stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing innovative precision therapeutics for debilitating and rare diseases. The company has created a unique bone-targeting drug platform that enables the precise delivery of small molecules, peptides, or large molecules directly to the site of bone fractures and diseases. This targeted approach aims to enhance healing rates while minimizing off-target safety concerns often associated with non-targeted therapies. Quince Therapeutics focuses on addressing impairments related to strength, functionality, debilitating pain, and other serious health challenges.

Immusoft

Series A in 2016
Immusoft Corporation is a biotechnology company focused on developing an autologous cell therapy platform aimed at treating a range of human diseases through its proprietary Immune System Programming (ISP) technology. Founded in 2009 and based in Seattle, Washington, Immusoft specializes in modifying the DNA of a patient's immune cells to create biofactories capable of producing gene-encoded medicines, including essential proteins and enzymes that may be missing or defective. The company's innovative approach involves reprogramming B cells, a type of immune cell, which enables them to manufacture and secrete various antibodies. This process not only provides a potential long-term solution for patients but also positions Immusoft at the forefront of biotechnology in addressing rare and infectious diseases.

3Scan

Series B in 2016
3Scan, Inc. is a technology company based in San Francisco, California, that specializes in the development of advanced microscopy tools and software for tissue analysis. Founded in 2011, the company focuses on automating the processes of tissue sectioning and imaging through its innovative knife-edge scanning microscopes. By integrating automation, machine learning, and computer vision, 3Scan enables researchers and medical professionals to extract spatial data from tissue samples, facilitating detailed 3D visualizations and comprehensive quantitative analysis of complex anatomical structures. This approach enhances the throughput and accuracy of tissue analysis compared to traditional histopathology, ultimately advancing the understanding of diseases that manifest at the tissue level, such as cancer, Alzheimer's, and other neurodegenerative disorders. 3Scan's technology aims to drive the discovery of new diagnostics and therapeutics in the field of biomedical research.

Modern Meadow

Series B in 2016
Modern Meadow, LLC is a biofabrication company based in Brooklyn, New York, that specializes in creating animal-free leather derived from living cells. Founded in 2011, the company operates at the intersection of material science and biology, utilizing its proprietary Bio-Alloy and Bio-Farm technologies to engineer sustainable materials. These innovations leverage tuned proteins to replace petrochemical and animal-derived inputs, ensuring high performance without compromising on quality. Modern Meadow's products are designed for immediate scalable adoption across various industries, including materials and beauty, and emphasize traceability from lab to brand. By focusing on fermentation-based bio-collagen and other protein applications, the company promotes environmental sustainability by significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions, while maintaining the biological functions of materials for optimal quality and appearance.
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