Backing the scientific discoveries that shape our future
At IP Group, we see a future enhanced by the impact of transformative businesses we have identified, backed and grown as long-term partners. We’re bold visionaries who are committed to solving some of the world’s greatest unmet needs by transforming ideas into impact, at scale.
Investments with impact
As one of the most active investors in life sciences, cleantech and deeptech, we’re proud to have developed a strong portfolio of high-growth businesses, several of which have already achieved unicorn status. You may know us as the founder investor in Oxford Nanopore Technologies plc, which hit headlines globally in 2020 for its work in the fight against COVID. Its technology was used for rapid, distributed sequencing of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, in more than 85 countries.
Our portfolio companies share a common goal – to have a positive impact on the world around us, whether that be through life sciences, cleantech (Kiko) or deeptech. Impact really is in our DNA: we’re committed to backing and supporting businesses that bring about a better future. Not only do we generate strong financial returns, the companies we support have a positive social and environmental impact and align closely with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
Our stakeholders are at the heart of all we do
Since pioneering the IP Group model more than two decades ago, we’ve built up a considerable knowledge bank and honed our approach to ensure all stakeholders benefit from the work we do through our portfolio companies.
*As at 31 Dec 2023
Companies formed and supported across the Group
invested in science-based businesses*
jobs created by the companies we have backed
Impactful partnerships
Our success wouldn’t be possible without the support of our many stakeholders and we’re proud to have partnered with some of the most prestigious organisations around. From innovative start-ups and visionary founders to investors, co-investors and advisors, our partners are committed to solving the world’s greatest unmet needs, and believe in the power of science to make that happen.
Milestones
2024
2022
We announce the launch of ‘Kiko Ventures’, our wholly-owned platform dedicated to supporting transformative climate technology.
2021
Hinge Health becomes our third unicorn following a $300m fundraise which values it at c$3bn.
2020
We exit our holding in Ceres Power, our second unicorn, netting more than £128m of cash.
2018
We acquire Parkwalk Advisors, the UK’s biggest EIS investor, and Touchstone Innovations, combining our portfolios to become one of the largest early-stage investors in Europe.
2017
We expand into Australasia on the back of a landmark deal with 9 leading universities.
2016
Oxford Nanopore Technologies becomes our first unicorn, worth over £1bn.
2014
We acquire Fusion IP, an IP commercialisation company.
2013
We launch operations in North America, partnering initially with Penn and Columbia universities.
2005
We become a founder shareholder of Oxford Nanolabs (now Oxford Nanopore Technologies) and Modern Biosciences (now Istesso).
2004
We buy Top Technology, an early-stage technology fund manager, and Techtran, an IP commercialisation company.
2003
The Group lists on the stock market.
2001
IP Group starts life with a ground-breaking commercialisation deal with the Chemistry Department at the University of Oxford.