Inventages Venture Capital Investment

Inventages is a corporate venture capital arm of Nestlé, founded in 2000 and based in Nassau, Bahamas. The firm specializes in early-stage investments, focusing primarily on life sciences, nutrition, and wellness sectors. It seeks to invest in a range of companies, from seed to late-stage ventures, and provides mezzanine and bridge financing. Inventages targets investments in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, cosmeceuticals, and diagnostic medical devices, emphasizing innovative technologies and services. In the pharmaceutical sector, it invests in small molecules, proteins, antibodies, and vaccines, among others. Its diagnostic investments include genetic materials and biomarkers, while its focus on enabling technologies encompasses novel packaging and supply chain management. Additionally, Inventages supports companies in medical foods, nutraceuticals, and health management, aiming to drive advancements in nutrition and functional food.

Ashok Dhanrajgir

Senior Vice President

Wolfgang Reichenberger

General Partner

Gunnar Weikert

Chairman, CEO and Founder

37 past transactions

Ripple Foods

Series D in 2020
Ripple Foods specializes in producing high-quality, dairy-free milk alternatives that prioritize nutrition and taste. Their products are designed to be high in protein, offering eight times the protein found in almond milk while containing half the sugar of traditional dairy milk. Additionally, Ripple's beverages are rich in bioavailable calcium, providing 50% more than regular milk, and are a good source of potassium and omega-3 fatty acids. With a focus on delivering a creamy texture that enhances the drinking experience, Ripple aims to provide a satisfying alternative for those seeking non-dairy options without sacrificing flavor or nutritional value.

Accera

Venture Round in 2018
Accera, Inc. is a clinical stage biotechnology company focused on developing therapies for central nervous system disorders, primarily targeting neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, Accera utilizes a proprietary scientific platform to address unmet medical needs in brain health. The company is known for its development of Ketasyn, a therapeutic molecule aimed at treating Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and age-associated memory impairment. As a subsidiary of Nestlé S.A., Accera is committed to advancing its pipeline of products to improve the lives of individuals affected by these conditions.

XOLUTION

Venture Round in 2016
XOLUTION GmbH, based in Munich, Germany, specializes in the manufacture of re-closable ends for beverage cans. The company has developed the XO resealable can, which has undergone extensive market research and field testing, leading to its recognition with a Silver Award in the Prototype category at the Can of the Year Awards in 2009. Under the leadership of Chief Executive Marc von Rettberg and Vice President of R&D Christian Bratsch, XOLUTION has focused on creating innovative designs that enhance user experience, streamline integration for beverage fillers, and offer unique branding opportunities. Their approach prioritizes intuitive usability and cost-effectiveness while ensuring compatibility with existing production processes. The company has established a competitive edge through its rapid prototyping and testing capabilities at its Salzburg R&D Center. With a team of experienced professionals across various disciplines, XOLUTION aims to influence the canned beverage market significantly with its advanced reclosable can technology.

Cognoptix

Series D in 2014
Cognoptix, Inc. is a healthcare company focused on developing a non-invasive eye scanning test for the early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. Established in 2001 and headquartered in Marlborough, Massachusetts, Cognoptix has created the SAPPHIRE II device, which allows for in-office patient examinations. This innovative technology employs a fluorescent ligand eye scanning technique, where a compound containing beta amyloid-specific small molecules is applied to the eye, enabling the SAPPHIRE II instrument to scan for amyloid aggregates. By measuring these deposits, Cognoptix aims to provide clinicians with a reliable, quick, and cost-effective method for identifying Alzheimer's disease at an early stage, thus facilitating timely diagnosis and treatment.

AM Pharma

Series E in 2014
AM Pharma B.V. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Bunnik, the Netherlands, focused on developing and commercializing novel therapeutics for inflammatory and infectious diseases. Established in 2000, the company specializes in pre-clinical and clinical development using endogenous proteins and peptides derived from the human body. Its key products include alkaline phosphatase, aimed at treating acute kidney injury and ulcerative colitis, and the immune response amplifying peptide hLF1-11, which targets drug-resistant hospital-acquired infections. AM Pharma is committed to providing innovative therapies that enhance patient quality of life by addressing critical medical needs.

Phagenesis

Series B in 2013
Phagenesis Limited is a medical device company based in Manchester, United Kingdom, founded in 2007. It focuses on developing innovative technology to treat dysphagia, a condition often associated with stroke and brain injuries that impairs safe swallowing. The company's flagship product, Phagenyx, consists of a base station that delivers targeted electrical stimulations to patients while recording and storing their information, and a catheter that is introduced through the nose to stimulate the pharynx. This approach leverages the brain’s neuroplasticity, enabling patients to relearn essential swallowing functions that may have been lost due to brain damage. Phagenesis aims to improve the recovery process for stroke patients in acute care settings by utilizing a method developed by Prof. Shaheen Hamdy of the University of Manchester, which has been validated through publication in reputable scientific and medical journals.

Phosphate Therapeutics

Venture Round in 2012
Phosphate Therapeutics is an independent specialty pharmaceutical company based in the UK, dedicated to developing mineral-derived hospital pharmaceuticals. The company is primarily focused on its lead product, PT20, an iron-based phosphate binder designed to treat hyperphosphataemia—an elevated phosphate level in the blood—associated with chronic kidney disease, whether dialysis-dependent or dialysis-independent. Phosphate Therapeutics acquired global rights to the PT20 development from the Medical Research Council and aims to advance the drug through Phase 2 clinical trials, targeting patients suffering from late-stage renal disease and systemic phosphate accumulation.

Phagenesis

Series B in 2011
Phagenesis Limited is a medical device company based in Manchester, United Kingdom, founded in 2007. It focuses on developing innovative technology to treat dysphagia, a condition often associated with stroke and brain injuries that impairs safe swallowing. The company's flagship product, Phagenyx, consists of a base station that delivers targeted electrical stimulations to patients while recording and storing their information, and a catheter that is introduced through the nose to stimulate the pharynx. This approach leverages the brain’s neuroplasticity, enabling patients to relearn essential swallowing functions that may have been lost due to brain damage. Phagenesis aims to improve the recovery process for stroke patients in acute care settings by utilizing a method developed by Prof. Shaheen Hamdy of the University of Manchester, which has been validated through publication in reputable scientific and medical journals.

MSI Methylation Sciences

Series A in 2011
MSI Methylation Sciences, Inc. is a biotechnology company founded in 2007 and based in West Vancouver, Canada. The company focuses on developing oral and small molecule therapies for the adjunctive treatment of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Their primary product, Strada, is an orally administered therapy designed to alleviate the symptoms of depression in patients suffering from this condition. Additionally, MSI Methylation Sciences develops S-Adenosyl Methionine, a prescription drug utilized as a dietary supplement, which leverages the capabilities of ademetionine, a naturally occurring molecule integral to the one-carbon cycle in the body. Through its innovative approaches, the company aims to enhance treatment options for individuals facing MDD.

Shield Therapeutics

Series A in 2011
Shield Therapeutics is an independent specialty pharmaceutical company based in Wollerau, Switzerland, concentrating on the development and commercialization of late-stage, mineral-derived pharmaceuticals aimed at addressing significant unmet medical needs. The company’s primary focus is on its lead product, Feraccru, which is designed for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia associated with inflammatory bowel disease, as well as chronic kidney disease. Additionally, Shield Therapeutics is advancing PT20, a product intended for the management of hyperphosphatemia, which is nearing the final stages of development. The company generates most of its revenue from the Feraccru segment.

Accera

Series D in 2011
Accera, Inc. is a clinical stage biotechnology company focused on developing therapies for central nervous system disorders, primarily targeting neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, Accera utilizes a proprietary scientific platform to address unmet medical needs in brain health. The company is known for its development of Ketasyn, a therapeutic molecule aimed at treating Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and age-associated memory impairment. As a subsidiary of Nestlé S.A., Accera is committed to advancing its pipeline of products to improve the lives of individuals affected by these conditions.

Cmp Therapeutics

Venture Round in 2010
CMP Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company based in Bicester, United Kingdom, founded in 2004. The company specializes in developing chitin microparticles (CMP) designed to target macrophages and dendritic cells within the nasal and respiratory tracts. Their primary product is a CMP nasal spray aimed at treating allergic rhinitis and enhancing natural resistance to influenza and other respiratory pathogens. Additionally, CMP Therapeutics explores the use of CMP as an adjuvant in nasal vaccines, broadening its potential applications in preventive healthcare.

Tanfield Direct

Venture Round in 2010
Tanfield Direct is an online provider of natural foods.

MooBella

Series A in 2009
MooBella has developed a revolutionary, disruptive technology that has the potential to transform and expand the nearly $60 billion ice cream industry. It enables instantaneous aeration, flavoring and freezing of ice cream into scoops of premium hard ice cream within seconds, and thereby eliminating the frozen supply chain.

Opsona Therapeutics

Series B in 2009
Opsona Therapeutics is a Dublin-based drug development company specializing in immunology, particularly the modulation of innate immunity pathways. Founded in 2004, the company has developed innovative therapeutic approaches aimed at treating autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, as well as cancer. By targeting the innate immune system, Opsona addresses a spectrum of significant health challenges, including transplant rejection, diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, and atherosclerosis. The company seeks to improve patient outcomes through its novel drug candidates and strategies, positioning itself as a leader in emerging immunology research and drug development in Europe.

Opsona Therapeutics

Series B in 2009
Opsona Therapeutics is a Dublin-based drug development company specializing in immunology, particularly the modulation of innate immunity pathways. Founded in 2004, the company has developed innovative therapeutic approaches aimed at treating autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, as well as cancer. By targeting the innate immune system, Opsona addresses a spectrum of significant health challenges, including transplant rejection, diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, and atherosclerosis. The company seeks to improve patient outcomes through its novel drug candidates and strategies, positioning itself as a leader in emerging immunology research and drug development in Europe.

Accera

Series C in 2008
Accera, Inc. is a clinical stage biotechnology company focused on developing therapies for central nervous system disorders, primarily targeting neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, Accera utilizes a proprietary scientific platform to address unmet medical needs in brain health. The company is known for its development of Ketasyn, a therapeutic molecule aimed at treating Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and age-associated memory impairment. As a subsidiary of Nestlé S.A., Accera is committed to advancing its pipeline of products to improve the lives of individuals affected by these conditions.

Cognoptix

Series B in 2008
Cognoptix, Inc. is a healthcare company focused on developing a non-invasive eye scanning test for the early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. Established in 2001 and headquartered in Marlborough, Massachusetts, Cognoptix has created the SAPPHIRE II device, which allows for in-office patient examinations. This innovative technology employs a fluorescent ligand eye scanning technique, where a compound containing beta amyloid-specific small molecules is applied to the eye, enabling the SAPPHIRE II instrument to scan for amyloid aggregates. By measuring these deposits, Cognoptix aims to provide clinicians with a reliable, quick, and cost-effective method for identifying Alzheimer's disease at an early stage, thus facilitating timely diagnosis and treatment.

Steaz

Venture Round in 2008
Steaz is a brand of organic green tea beverages made with ingredients you can feel good about. Since 2002, Steaz has provided fans with healthy, high-quality beverages while maintaining strong, socially responsible relationships with the company’s ingredient partners around the world. Their pride is anchored in their organic certification and dedication to fair trade and support for sustainable farming around the world. Steaz is available in three healthy and delicious product lines – iced green teas, energy drinks and cactus water beverages. Find your flavor and start sipping on certified goodness.

GC-Rise Pharmaceutical

Series A in 2008
GC-Rise Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. is a foreign-owned enterprise invested by INVENTAGES, a prominent European investment group in the healthcare sector. The company is dedicated to improving human healthcare and enhancing quality of life. It leverages strategic partnerships across America, Europe, and Japan, utilizing their extensive experience in clinical development, trials, and regulatory processes in China. GC-Rise specializes in healthcare services focused on gynecology, obstetrics, and pediatrics, aiming to provide innovative, safe, and highly efficient medical products and treatment solutions for women and children. Through its comprehensive approach, the company seeks to ensure that patients have access to the necessary healthcare services and products to maintain their health.

Food Quality Sensor International

Series B in 2007
Food Quality Sensor International, Inc. is a sensor technology company based in Lexington, Massachusetts, that specializes in real-time and interactive devices for measuring food freshness. Founded in 2004, the company offers innovative products such as SensorQ, which assesses the freshness of meat and poultry within their packaging, and SensorfreshQ, a handheld electronic nose designed to detect spoilage in these products. Its solutions cater to various sectors including food processing, grocery distribution, food service, regulatory bodies, defense, and consumer retail markets, aiming to enhance food safety and quality across the supply chain.

AM Pharma

Series C in 2007
AM Pharma B.V. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Bunnik, the Netherlands, focused on developing and commercializing novel therapeutics for inflammatory and infectious diseases. Established in 2000, the company specializes in pre-clinical and clinical development using endogenous proteins and peptides derived from the human body. Its key products include alkaline phosphatase, aimed at treating acute kidney injury and ulcerative colitis, and the immune response amplifying peptide hLF1-11, which targets drug-resistant hospital-acquired infections. AM Pharma is committed to providing innovative therapies that enhance patient quality of life by addressing critical medical needs.

MooBella

Series A in 2007
MooBella has developed a revolutionary, disruptive technology that has the potential to transform and expand the nearly $60 billion ice cream industry. It enables instantaneous aeration, flavoring and freezing of ice cream into scoops of premium hard ice cream within seconds, and thereby eliminating the frozen supply chain.

Phytomedics

Series B in 2007
Phytomedics is committed to quality, technological innovation and research. Their powerful portfolio of overlapping proprietary technologies is targeted to turning green plants into reliable vehicles for discovering and manufacturing proprietary botanical pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. NewLeadTM and RhizexTM elicitation and optimization processes greatly enhance the efficacy and reproducibility of plant-derived products and increase the synergy between various chemical components of plant extracts. The Company has developed an efficient and proprietary discovery and lead prioritization process based on high-power bio-informatics, high-tech data mining, efficient activity screening, and an extensive network of international collaborations.

DiObex

Series B in 2007
DiObex, Inc. operates as a biotechnology company in the United States. The company develops novel products for the treatment of metabolic disorders, including type-one and type-two diabetes, dyslipidemia, obesity, and diabetic nephropathy. Its products include DIO-901, a very low dose glucagon product that is developed for the reduction of nocturnal hypoglycemia in patients with type-one diabetes; and DIO-902, a cortisol synthesis inhibitor that is developed as a therapy for glucose and cholesterol control in patients with type-two diabetes. DiObex, Inc. was founded in 2003 and is based in San Francisco, California.

Cryolog

Series B in 2007
Cryolog S.A., founded in 2002 and based in Nantes, France, specializes in cold chain management solutions for fresh and ultra-fresh food products. The company is known for its innovative time-temperature integrators (TTIs), which are self-adhesive labels that monitor the effects of temperature fluctuations on product conservation. One of its flagship products, TOPCRYO, utilizes thermosensitive microbiological tablets that change color from green to red, indicating whether storage conditions have compromised product freshness. This technology serves as a crucial tool for the food industry, providing clear and immediate visual feedback to ensure food safety and quality throughout the supply chain.

Honest Tea

Private Equity Round in 2007
Honest Tea is an organic bottled tea company based in the United States, co-founded by Seth Goldman and Barry Nalebuff in 1998. The company emerged from a desire to create a beverage that is less sweet yet flavorful, filling a gap in the market for healthier drink options. Honest Tea offers a diverse range of tea products, including black, green, white, and herbal varieties, which are distributed through a network of food stores and distributors. The brand emphasizes all-natural ingredients and aims to foster honest relationships with its customers, suppliers, and the environment. Since its inception, Honest Tea has experienced significant growth and is now available in over 100,000 stores across the country. Following an initial investment from The Coca-Cola Company in 2008, Honest Tea was fully acquired in 2011, but continues to operate as an independent business unit. Under Goldman’s leadership as President and TeaEO, the company maintains its commitment to health, environmental sustainability, and social responsibility.

Cmp Therapeutics

Series A in 2006
CMP Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company based in Bicester, United Kingdom, founded in 2004. The company specializes in developing chitin microparticles (CMP) designed to target macrophages and dendritic cells within the nasal and respiratory tracts. Their primary product is a CMP nasal spray aimed at treating allergic rhinitis and enhancing natural resistance to influenza and other respiratory pathogens. Additionally, CMP Therapeutics explores the use of CMP as an adjuvant in nasal vaccines, broadening its potential applications in preventive healthcare.

Accera

Series B in 2006
Accera, Inc. is a clinical stage biotechnology company focused on developing therapies for central nervous system disorders, primarily targeting neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, Accera utilizes a proprietary scientific platform to address unmet medical needs in brain health. The company is known for its development of Ketasyn, a therapeutic molecule aimed at treating Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and age-associated memory impairment. As a subsidiary of Nestlé S.A., Accera is committed to advancing its pipeline of products to improve the lives of individuals affected by these conditions.

Technologie BiolActis

Series A in 2006
Technologie BiolActis (BiolActis) is a Canadian biotechnology company incorporated in 1998. Since its foundation, the entrepreneurs were committed to create novel Biologics meeting well identified needs from the Wellness Industries (Functional Nutrition, Dietary Supplements, Cosmeceuticals and Pharmaceuticals).

TriMed Research

Venture Round in 2005
TriMed Research, Inc. engages in the research and development of therapeutic products primarily related to mammary gland protein designated as MAA.

DNage

Series A in 2005
DNage is a life sciences company founded in 2004 as a spin off from the Department of Genetics of the Erasmus Medical Center Rotterdam. The Company was seed-funded through an equity investment of an international syndicate of venture capitalists including LSP (NL) and Inventages (CH).

Opsona Therapeutics

Series A in 2005
Opsona Therapeutics is a Dublin-based drug development company specializing in immunology, particularly the modulation of innate immunity pathways. Founded in 2004, the company has developed innovative therapeutic approaches aimed at treating autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, as well as cancer. By targeting the innate immune system, Opsona addresses a spectrum of significant health challenges, including transplant rejection, diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, and atherosclerosis. The company seeks to improve patient outcomes through its novel drug candidates and strategies, positioning itself as a leader in emerging immunology research and drug development in Europe.

Cavis microcaps

Series A in 2005
The Cavis microcaps has many years’ experience in the field of alginate-based encapsulation and immobilisation. The main focus of their services is encapsulation of additives for the food industry and pet food sectors. Their products are used in food technology as well as in cosmetic and technical applications.

Cryolog

Series A in 2004
Cryolog S.A., founded in 2002 and based in Nantes, France, specializes in cold chain management solutions for fresh and ultra-fresh food products. The company is known for its innovative time-temperature integrators (TTIs), which are self-adhesive labels that monitor the effects of temperature fluctuations on product conservation. One of its flagship products, TOPCRYO, utilizes thermosensitive microbiological tablets that change color from green to red, indicating whether storage conditions have compromised product freshness. This technology serves as a crucial tool for the food industry, providing clear and immediate visual feedback to ensure food safety and quality throughout the supply chain.

SelectX Pharmaceuticals

Series B in 2004
SelectX Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a Boston-based biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the discovery and development of aminoglycoside therapeutics aimed at addressing unmet medical needs. The company is advancing SXP2523, a next-generation aminoglycoside antibiotic designed to combat drug-resistant gram-negative hospital-acquired infections. Additionally, it is developing an inhaled aminoglycoside antibiotic targeting drug-resistant gram-negative infections in patients with Cystic Fibrosis and other respiratory diseases. Beyond antibiotics, SelectX Pharmaceuticals is also focused on identifying and optimizing non-antibiotic aminoglycoside leads for various therapeutic applications, including cell migration, calcium channels, metalloproteinases, and antiviral strategies. Established in 2002, SelectX Pharmaceuticals was previously known as OmniScience Pharmaceuticals Inc. and has since positioned itself at the forefront of innovative therapeutic development.

Phytomedics

Series A in 2004
Phytomedics is committed to quality, technological innovation and research. Their powerful portfolio of overlapping proprietary technologies is targeted to turning green plants into reliable vehicles for discovering and manufacturing proprietary botanical pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. NewLeadTM and RhizexTM elicitation and optimization processes greatly enhance the efficacy and reproducibility of plant-derived products and increase the synergy between various chemical components of plant extracts. The Company has developed an efficient and proprietary discovery and lead prioritization process based on high-power bio-informatics, high-tech data mining, efficient activity screening, and an extensive network of international collaborations.
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