Boehringer Ingelheim launches fund to promote life sciences

Boehringer Ingelheim has underlined its commitment to medical innovation by launching a corporate venture capital fund to support global life science research.

The company has outlined plans to contribute a total of 100 million euros (88.8 million pounds) to the Boehringer Ingelheim Venture Fund, which will be invested in biotech and start-up companies worldwide.

Its intention is to fund potentially groundbreaking medical research in areas such as RNA silencing and stem cells, as well as disease-related biomarkers and new vaccines.

Professor Andreas Barner, chairman of the board of managing directors at Boehringer Ingelheim, stated that the scheme will allow it to support developments in areas of research beyond its own therapeutic focus.

He added: “We are aware that there is an entire landscape of novel therapeutic ideas and potential breakthrough technologies that need to be supported for future patients’ benefit.”

Earlier this month, the company published new trial data for its dabigatran etexilate stroke treatment, demonstrating its potential advantages compared to the current standard of care.