Mind the Gap

Overview

Mind the Gap is an initiative by the Botín Foundation aimed at fostering biotechnology entrepreneurship in Spain and Latin America. The program focuses on bridging the gap between scientific research and market application by supporting early-stage biotech companies. It provides financial investment of up to €500,000 per project over a maximum of two years, along with expert guidance to help transform academic projects into viable business ventures. The program targets projects in the life sciences sector, including biomedicine, biotechnology, bioengineering, biomaterials, bioinformatics, and digital health. It seeks to support technologies developed by Spanish research institutions that have commercial potential, aiming to generate social and economic development. Mind the Gap operates through a co-financing vehicle that includes private investors, demonstrating the capacity of Spanish science to attract private capital. Since its inception in 2011, Mind the Gap has been instrumental in launching multiple biotech startups, contributing to job creation and the introduction of innovative products and services to the market. The program's success is evident in the significant private capital it has attracted and the positive impact on the biotech ecosystem in Spain and Latin America.

Investment Focus

• Projects must be based on technology developed by Spanish research institutions.
• Projects should be in the life sciences sector, including biomedicine, biotechnology, bioengineering, biomaterials, bioinformatics, and digital health.
• Requested investment should not exceed €250,000 per year or €500,000 over two years.
• Projects should aim to reach sufficient maturity within two years to attract additional partners and resources.
• Expected results should have a relevant and measurable socio-economic impact.

Portfolio Companies