Scientifica Venture Capital has launched Scientifica Fund 1 (SF1), a €200 million fund dedicated to fostering innovation in fields such as quantum computing, smart materials, advanced industry, and environmental technologies. This ambitious fund, slated for launch in the first half of 2025, represents a significant step toward bridging scientific research and venture capital for impactful global advancements.
Supports companies across all stages
Founded by two visionary family offices, Scientifica Venture Capital has cultivated a culture of trust and collaboration. This foundation has attracted robust interest from private investors and family offices, particularly among younger entrepreneurs eager to drive sustainable innovation.
The launch of SF1 marks a critical milestone in Scientifica’s industrial project. With over 100 professionals, new research infrastructures, and partnerships, this initiative aims to create a seamless pipeline between scientific excellence and venture capital investment.
It will support innovative companies at all stages of development, from the initial idea to the scaleup phase, optimising research time and costs while accelerating their path to market.
Zero CapEx model for young startups
Scientifica’s Zero CapEx investment model aims to eliminate economic barriers for startups by providing access to technological resources. Startups can leverage over 4,000 m² of proprietary laboratories and a network of 70 certified facilities across Italy, equipping them with spaces, machinery, and equipment at no initial cost. This enables startups to prioritise research, development, and scalability, optimising timelines and reducing operational risks.
Builds an industrial backbone
Building on the success of SF1, Scientifica plans to introduce additional vertical funds, such as Quantum Italia, focusing on frontier technologies. These funds will translate scientific research into market-ready applications, fueling innovation and economic growth.
Expanding global presence
Scientifica has taken bold steps to establish a global footprint, with key initiatives in Europe and the United States. In France, the VC has partnered in the quantum technology sector, further bolstered by launching the first coordinated European Startup Competition between Italy and France. This initiative, praised by the French Ministry of Economy, exemplifies cross-border collaboration among companies, universities, and institutions.
Its operational hub in Silicon Valley, led by Jon Lunetta, provides European startups, especially in the AI sector, direct access to the American tech ecosystem. This hub acts as a vital bridge, fostering global advancements in European technologies.
Portfolio of investments
Scientifica has an impressive and diverse portfolio of companies spanning various innovative sectors. Some of their key investments include:
- ExoLab Italia: A biotech company specialising in plant exosomes for nutraceuticals, dermocosmetics, and life sciences, leveraging circular economy principles.
- Omzey: A healthcare startup providing AI-powered solutions for diagnosing genetic and rare diseases through the JuliaOmix platform, which enhances genomic data analysis and patient care.
- SPiN: A company revolutionising space manufacturing with modular satellite solutions to reduce design and production costs.
- CyLock: A SaaS-based cybersecurity platform for vulnerability assessments, addressing global cybersecurity gaps.
- Recornea: A startup developing the GROSSO implant to treat keratoconus, offering improved vision restoration solutions.
- Green Independence: A startup innovating renewable energy production with the New Artificial Leaf technology, combining solar energy, water purification, and hydrogen production.
These companies demonstrate Scientifica’s commitment to supporting technological advancements in health, materials, and engineering.
How does it bring a change?
By combining its robust Zero CapEx model, strategic collaborations, and international expansion efforts, Scientifica Venture Capital is positioning itself as a leader in the global innovation landscape. With SF1 and future initiatives, the investor is set to redefine how technology is nurtured, supported, and scaled globally.
Riccardo D’Alessandri, Managing Partner said: “Scientifica Fund is the tangible expression of a strategy that integrates research, venture capital and industry to accelerate technological innovation and create sustainable value. With high-level international collaborations, we are ready to position Italy as a central player in the global innovation ecosystem.”
Patrick Leoni Sceti, General Partner said: “This fund marks the beginning of an ambitious project aimed at supporting companies capable of redefining global standards and fostering sustainable economic growth. Our goal is to build an ecosystem that maximises the potential of innovation, creating a positive and lasting impact.”
Jon Lunetta, Key Man USA added: “The HUB in Silicon Valley will provide Italian start-ups with privileged access to the heart of global innovation, forging strategic connections between European talent and American resources.”
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