Startup
From Science to Startups: A Conversation with the Head of New Ventures at VIB
1 min read
The strategy of venture capital firm Curie Capital is to make a meaningful impact on patients’ lives through smart investments in high potential early-stage biotechnology and medical technology companies. Within the life sciences sector we search for first- or best-in-class products in accessible markets, led by experienced and visionary leaders.

This is reflected in our current portfolio of six promising Dutch ventures:
Citryll developing the antibody therapy CIT-013 for NET-related inflammatory diseases, such as Rheumatoid Arthritis and Hidradenitis Suppurativa.
Sirius Medical Systems selling their Pintuition tumor localisation device to breast cancer surgeons worldwide for precise navigation guidance towards the tumor.
TargED Biotherapeutics developing their thrombolytic nanobody drug TGD001 for thrombotic diseases such as stroke and aTTP.
Cleara Biotech developing their senolytic CPP drug CL04183 to treat mP53 specific solid tumors.
Avidicure developing antibodies that boost the number and function of tumor specific NK cells at the tumor and cause activation of the full immune system and provide broad TME-resistant anti-tumor responses.
Flindr Therapeutics developing a small molecule inhibitor of RNF31 to treat hematologic cancers as the lead program from their Immunogram platform.
We actively contribute to the success and the value of our portfolio companies through good syndicates, best team hires and advisors, derisking the proposition for later stage investors towards successful commercialization. Through our hands-on support, promising companies get the chance to bring their product to the proof-of-concept stage (medicines) and/or global sales (services, medtech, diagnostic products).
The founding partners Mariëtte van der Velden and Han de Groot both have extensive experience in venture capital, entrepreneurship and managing companies across the full life cycle from startup to exit. Associate Thom Frielink represents Curie Capital at many life sciences network events and leverages his skills and network for the success of Curie’s portfolio companies. For more information www.curiecapital.nl