We invest in exceptional founders working on cutting-edge technologies.

What we are looking for.

  • One or more scientific disciplines are fundamental to the technology you are developing.

    Inherent novelty to your approach - your USP builds on new advances in our scientific understanding.

  • Real problems in Life Sciences, Advanced Materials, TechBio, Photonics and Quantum Hardware, Robotics and Automation, AgChem/Tech and DeepTech

    Ambition to impact society on a large scale and advance human capability.

  • Companies registered in the UK (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland).

    We only invest in businesses that are S/EIS eligible (HMRC advance assurance is required).

  • Entirely new technologies developed from fundamental research.

    Creating IP-rich innovations with competitive defensibility.

  • Life Sciences

  • Photonics & Quantum

  • Advanced Materials

  • TechBio

  • Robotics & Automation

  • AgTech

  • DeepTech

18

investments

>£30M

follow-on investment

14

companies

>£5.5M

deployed

More than just investment.

We work closely with founders post-investment, helping them navigate the key de-risking events of deep science companies at Pre-Seed and Seed, such as Technical, Market and Regulatory Risks.

Our portfolio brings together a community of world-class scientists and exceptional founders, creating an epicentre of deep science ventures.

Dr Asel Sartbaeva CEO of EnsiliTech

“The mentorship and guidance from Empirical Ventures has been instrumental, steering us through challenges and opportunities alike. Their industry expertise, valuable connections, and unwavering belief in our mission have created a dynamic partnership that transcends conventional investment. As a CEO, I am profoundly grateful for the comprehensive support our investors have provided, shaping EnsiliTech into not just a thriving business but a community fueled by shared vision and commitment.”

Frequently Asked Questions

  • We aim to deploy tickets of £250k at pre-seed and £350k at seed.

    We also run a Venture Studio which supports from as early as 12 months pre-investment. Contact us to find out more.

  • Our initial application is just a straightforward pitch deck submission.

    Our investment team review every application and aim to get back to you within 1 week of submission. If successful, you'll be invited for an introductory call with a member of our team.

    Find out more about our Investment Process.

  • Yes - we have a follow-on strategy and have participated in follow-on rounds for many of our portfolio companies.

  • As a S/EIS fund, we focus predominantly on UK-based investment opportunities.

  • We invest in companies based on scientific breakthroughs - see our Portfolio for examples of companies we have invested in.

  • Yes - we can act as lead investor but are also open to co-leading or following a lead.