Houston is the home to the largest medical center in the world. With over $1.8 billion in annual academic research investments and over 160 life science companies, the region has attracted venture capitalists from across the nation to invest in the growing life science industry in Houston. Texas has also become a hot spot for venture capital investments as a result of the recent approval of the $3 billion cancer research institute by Governor Rick Perry, which will distribute up to $300 million in annual investments over the next decade. Listed below are resources for biotech firms, ranging from funds to relevant conferences.
VENTURE CAPITAL FIRMS
THE EMERGING TECHNOLOGY FUND
The Texas Emerging Technology Fund, which was created by the Texas Legislature, provides Texas with an unparalleled advantage by expediting the development and commercialization of new technologies, and by recruiting the best research talent in the world. Matching and commercialization funds coupled with additional federal and outside investments mean new technology is emerging in Texas.
The Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas
The Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas is the state agency mandated to (1) create and expedite innovation in the area of cancer research and in enhancing the potential for a medical or scientific breakthrough in the prevention of cancer and cures for cancer; (2) attract, create, or expand research capabilities of public or private institutions of higher education and other public or private entities that will promote a substantial increase in cancer research and in the creation of high-quality new jobs in this state; and (3) develop and implement the Texas Cancer Plan.
GULF COAST RCIC
The Gulf Coast RCIC is responsible for processing applications for Commercial Awards from the Texas Emerging Technology Fund from individuals and companies located within the Gulf Coast region. The Gulf Coast RCIC will research each application and submit recommendations to the Emerging Technology Fund Advisory Committee.
The Gulf Coast RCIC will also assist with commercialization of the funded technologies, as well as provide private support to the companies and workforce.
MATCH-MAKING MEETINGS
BioHouston has established a match-making program to introduce emerging Texas life science companies to local and national venture capital firms and established life science companies. Representatives from these venture and life science organizations frequently travel to BioHouston’s offices to learn about companies that fit their investment criteria during formal meetings and informal networking events. If you are a Texas company and are interested in being considered for future match-making opportunities, please let email biohouston@biohouston.org.
SBIR/STTR
National conferences and workshops on SBIR and STTR can be found at SBIR Gateway.
Narrated Advice Presentations for SBIR and STTR can be found at the NIAID website. The narrated tutorials help small businesses apply for SBIR and STTR. They offer general advice and information on applying, as well as a visual step-by-step overview for small business applicants.
SUPPORT FOR EMERGING COMPANIES
Houston Angel Network - The Houston Angel Network is a non-profit organization that provides its members a forum to efficiently evaluate promising early-stage investment opportunities. Members of HAN include of active and SEC-accredited angel investors who invest in early-stage Texas-based companies. Since its inception, HAN members have invested more than $10 million in 30 companies and have closed on 14 companies in 2006 as a direct result of presentation that were made at their monthly breakfast meetings.
Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship - The Rice Alliance supports entrepreneurs and early-stage technology ventures in Houston and Texas through education, collaboration, and research. Since inception in late 1999, the Rice Alliance has assisted in the launch of over 205 technology companies that have raised more than $300 million in funding.
Texas Coalition for Capital - the Texas Coalition for Capital is a non-profit coalition of leaders supporting economic development and job creation through long-term access to capital for Texas entrepreneurs and emerging companies.
