BioSapien extends its pre-Series A round to $7 million
UAE-based healthtech BioSapien has extended its pre-Series A funding round to $7 million, joined by new investors like Golden Gate Ventures, marking the first deployment of its dedicated MENA Fund.
Founded in 2018 by Khatija Ali, BioSapien offers a flagship product, MediChip™, which is a drug delivery, 3D-printed, slow-release delivery platform attachable to any tissue with minimal systemic side effects.
The extension follows December's $5.5 million pre-Series A funding round, which was led by Global Ventures, with additional participation from Dara Holdings.
Press release:
BioSapien, the pioneering biotech company behind MediChip™, a revolutionary localised cancer treatment platform, has successfully extended its pre-Series A funding round to $7 million. This milestone includes new strategic investment from leading investors, including Golden Gate Ventures, marking its first deployment through its dedicated MENA Fund.
The urgency to tackle escalating cancer rates, coupled with the UAE's forward-thinking healthcare initiatives, makes this the ideal moment for BioSapien's expansion. By leveraging advanced 3D printing technology, MediChip™ offers a breakthrough approach by delivering targeted, localised treatment, reducing systemic side effects, and improving patient outcomes. This innovation aligns seamlessly with the UAE's focus on elevating quality of life through technology.
This investment reinforces BioSapien's commitment to advancing patient-centred oncology solutions while contributing to the UAE's growing prominence as a global leader in health innovation. The funding will accelerate clinical trials in the UAE for MediChip™, BioSapien's patented 3D-printed, slow-release drug delivery platform, with UAE clinical trials set to begin in Q2 2025. Additionally, the capital will be allocated to product development and scaling manufacturing capabilities.
The UAE's dedication to fostering cutting-edge medical advancements is pivotal to BioSapien's mission. MediChip™'s first-in-region clinical trials represent a significant milestone, enhancing Abu Dhabi's position as a global healthcare innovation hub. The collaboration with local stakeholders underscores the Gulf region's potential as a key player in pioneering treatments that address global healthcare challenges.
The extension follows December's $5.5 million pre-Series A funding round, which was led by MENA's leading VC firm Global Ventures, with additional participation from Dara Holdings.
Khatija Ali, CEO and Founder of BioSapien, said:
'We are delighted to announce our new investment and are grateful for all the support we have received. The expertise and belief in our vision from our investors come at a critical juncture as we initiate clinical trials in Abu Dhabi. Together, we are working towards a future where localised cancer treatment becomes the global standard.'
Michael Lints, Partner at Golden Gate Ventures MENA, commented:
'Having met CEO and Founder Khatija at Hub71 in Abu Dhabi, we were instantly impressed by her passion and vision. Investing in BioSapien aligns with our commitment to supporting transformative technologies that address significant global challenges. This investment not only supports a groundbreaking technology but also reinforces the Gulf region's role as a global leader in healthcare innovation.'
BioSapien's flagship product - MediChip™ - is a drug delivery, 3D-printed, slow-release delivery platform attachable to any tissue with minimal systemic side effects.
By delivering medication directly to the tumour, MediChip™ minimises side effects often associated with systemic chemotherapy. Local delivery also requires fewer quantities of drugs to be used while still effectively treating the tumour.
Initially, BioSapien is developing its platform for clinical trials in colorectal cancer patients, with scope to branch out to other cancers (pancreatic, lung), and non-cancer indications such as opioids, hormones, biologics, and cell and gene therapies. The company's mission is to treat over one million patients by 2035 via its versatile technology.
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