Araris Biotech raises CHF 15.2 million to boost the development of their antibody-drug conjugate (ADC)-linker technology

Araris Biotech, a Swiss Biotech start-up focuses on the commercialization of novel antibody-drug conjugate (ADC)-linker technology. This enable fast and precise production of ADCs using their proprietary peptide linkers. The innovative approach has the potential to set new benchmarks in terms of development, analysis and performance. 

The investment round was led by Pureos Bioventures with participation from new investors 4BIO Capital, btov Partners and existing investors Redalpine, VI Partners and Schroder Adveq. The proceeds will be used to nominate a clinical candidate and advance Araris’ lead program into preclinical and clinical development. The new funds will also support the development of a broad proprietary pipeline of ADC compounds.

Philipp Spycher, CEO and Co-counder of Araris, said: “We see this funding as strong validation of our company, lead programs and the Araris ADC-linker platform. We’re focused on using our unique linker technology, that allows development of ADCs without engineering the native antibody, to design better medicines for cancer. This capital will allow us to advance our lead program to the next stage of development and progress our preclinical pipeline towards the clinic. We are also pleased to further strengthen our investor base with such a distinguished group of investors, all of whom have a proven track record of supporting successful emerging companies.”

Araris Biotech had participation in the Venture Leaders, TOP 100 and Venture Kick programs. Philipp Spycher says: “Venture Kick was essential in the starting phase. We received extremely valuable input on business plan development and pitching while the financial support allowed us to attend partnering meetings and scientific conferences. There we got in touch with many pharma companies which enabled us to get a first foot-into-their-door. Challenging feedback at the Kickers’ Camps also prepared us for the critical questions we encountered when fundraising.”