Beech Biotech Secures €500,000 Grant

Lausanne-based startup Beech Biotech has been awarded €500,000 through the BioInnovation Institute (BII) Venture Lab programme to accelerate the development of a novel placenta-impermeable antibody aimed at treating preeclampsia, a life-threatening pregnancy complication.

Addressing a Critical Unmet Medical Need

Preeclampsia remains a major global health challenge, affecting millions of pregnancies each year. The condition, marked by high blood pressure and organ damage, is responsible for approximately 70,000 maternal deaths and 500,000 infant deaths annually. Currently, the only definitive treatment is delivery, often leading to preterm birth and severe neonatal complications.
Beech Biotech’s innovative approach focuses on targeting the root causes of preeclampsia while ensuring the drug does not cross the placental barrier—a key safety feature for both mother and baby. This novel therapeutic could revolutionize maternal healthcare by offering a safer, more effective treatment option.

Accelerating Development with BII Support

Founded in 2022, Beech Biotech is leveraging BII’s funding and expert business development resources to drive its technology toward clinical validation. The startup is collaborating with industry consultants and scientific partners to refine its antibody therapy.
“BII’s investment in Beech Biotech is a strong endorsement of our mission to bring a breakthrough treatment for preeclampsia to women and their babies,” said Ian Cottingham, CEO and Founder of Beech Biotech. “The support from BII also positions us well for our upcoming Series A fundraising later this year.”

BII’s Role in Life Science Innovation

The BioInnovation Institute, based in Copenhagen, Denmark, is a leading accelerator for life science startups. Its Venture Lab program provides early-stage companies with non-dilutive funding, mentorship, and access to investors to help bridge the gap between research and commercialization.
 
 

Source: BioInnovation Institute