Information on the Target

EyeD Pharma, a pharmaceutical company based in Liège, was founded in 2012 through the initiative of Professor Jean-Marie Rakic, head of the ophthalmology department at the University Hospital of Liège, along with the support of the Foidart family and other ophthalmologists. The company specializes in developing innovative micro-implants designed for the controlled release of ophthalmic drugs. With a focus on improving patient quality of life, EyeD Pharma is currently dedicated to addressing glaucoma—an eye condition that predominantly affects individuals over the age of 45, leading to significant vision impairment.

The recent fundraising effort has garnered €45 million, primarily for advancing its ophthalmic products and obtaining initial clinical data in humans. Furthermore, the launch of UniD Manufacturing in spring 2022, situated in the Sart-Tilman science park, marks a critical milestone for EyeD Pharma by enabling the accelerated development and production of these innovative products.

Industry Overview in Belgium

The life sciences sector in Belgium has experienced substantial growth, driven by a combination of a robust research environment and a network of public and private partnerships. The Belgian ecosystem is known for its strong focus on innovation and high-quality research, supported by numerous universities and research institutions.

Recently, Belgium's life sciences landscape has shifted, with increasing investments pouring into biotechnology and pharmaceuticals. This growing trend has fostered the emergence of numerous startups and smaller companies, contributing to the country's reputation as a hub for medical innovation.

Particular emphasis is being placed on the development of cutting-edge therapies, especially in sectors such as oncology and ophthalmology. This focus aligns with global trends towards personalized medicine, where treatments are tailored to individual patient needs, improving healthcare outcomes.

The Walloon Region, in which EyeD Pharma operates, has also recognized the importance of stimulating the life sciences sector by providing financial backing, fostering research initiatives, and facilitating cooperation between various stakeholders in the industry.

The Rationale Behind the Deal

This recent fundraising initiative, which includes a €33.6 million capital increase alongside recoverable advances and subsidies from DG06 and the Mecatech cluster, is aimed at financing the development and clinical trials of EyeD Pharma's advanced product candidate, TimoD. Additionally, the funds will support the progression of three other drug candidates targeting various ocular conditions.

Another key aspect of this funding initiative is its potential to drive growth within the company, projected to create approximately twenty new jobs in areas such as management, research, production, maintenance, and logistics. This is significant given the company's previous growth, having created 93 jobs in the region since its inception.

Information About the Investor

The investment round was notably backed by a consortium of prominent Belgian families and entrepreneurs, including esteemed figures in the life sciences sector. Among the new investors are the Jolly and Noël families via their holding company Nomainvest, Jean Stéphenne, Robert Taub, and Didier Allaer, as well as public funds like SRIW and SFPI. Existing shareholders such as Fund +, Qbic II, and Noshaq also participated actively in the capital increase.

These investors are recognized for their commitment to long-term value creation and innovation in life sciences. Their financial support not only reflects confidence in EyeD Pharma but also demonstrates their belief in the transformative potential of the company’s technology and mission.

View of Dealert

This investment in EyeD Pharma represents a strong opportunity for multiple parties involved, highlighting the potential for significant advancements in the treatment of glaucoma and other eye conditions. Evaluating the investment, there are several key factors indicating its potential as a sound decision.

Firstly, the growing prevalence of ocular diseases, particularly glaucoma, coupled with an aging population, underscores a substantial market need for innovative therapies. EyeD Pharma’s focus on micro-implants for controlled drug delivery presents a unique and promising approach to meet this demand.

Secondly, the backing from reputable investors and public institutions not only validates the company's project but also enhances its credibility and access to vital resources for success. Given the scientific expertise and industry knowledge of the investors, their involvement is poised to bolster EyD Pharma’s growth trajectory significantly.

Lastly, with plans to create new jobs and further establish itself in the Belgian life sciences sector, EyeD Pharma demonstrates a commitment to regional economic growth, further solidifying its attractiveness as an investment. Overall, with the strategic implementation of this funding, EyeD Pharma is well-positioned for future success.

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