SBI Holdings and Shin Nippon Biomedical Laboratories (SNBL) have launched a $40 million fund to invest in North American startups focused on biotechnology, drug discovery, and artificial intelligence. The fund, initiated in September, will be managed through a joint operation based in Seattle, where SNBL owns an incubation facility. This move represents a strategic effort to identify promising ventures and accelerate innovation in key sectors.
SBI and SNBL plan to attract and fund dozens of startups, providing support for both research and development and business growth. The Seattle facility could also serve as a launchpad for Japanese biotech firms seeking to expand into the U.S. market. Investment targets will be selected using SBI’s experience managing funds in Silicon Valley and SNBL’s expertise in the biotech industry, including its successful Nasdaq listings.
SNBL, known for its contracted nonclinical studies, brings unique capabilities to the venture, including reliable access to laboratory animals from its breeding facilities. The collaboration is expected to leverage both companies’ strengths to foster advancements in the biotech and AI sectors.
