IndieBio

IndieBio is the world's leading biotech accelerator operated by SOSV, a $1.5 billion venture capital firm. Since 2014, IndieBio has been pioneering early-stage investments in founder-led biotech companies working on revolutionary science in climate tech, human health, food systems, and advanced materials. With locations in San Francisco and New York, IndieBio has funded over 200 companies that have created $9+ billion in enterprise value.

The program provides up to $525,000 in initial funding, fully-equipped wet labs (including a $2 million lab facility), intensive mentorship with 5+ partners, and 24/7 access to the team. Unlike traditional accelerators, IndieBio offers high-touch, founder-focused support with daily meetings available and no curriculum or box-checking. The firm continues to invest in 97% of follow-on rounds over $1M, targeting long-term ownership of ~10%.

For ZHC builders working on deep biotech innovations—from synthetic biology to cellular agriculture to advanced therapeutics—IndieBio offers unparalleled lab access, technical expertise, and investor connections at the pre-seed stage when most VCs won't invest.

Program Structure

• 3-4 month intensive program (flexible start timing)
• Cohorts of 10-15 companies per batch
• San Francisco or New York locations (or virtual/hybrid)
• Can start funding 9+ months before program begins
• Access to 199+ alumni network across biotech sectors

Eligibility Requirements

Stage: Pre-seed to early seed biotech companies Focus Areas:

• Climate tech (sustainable materials, food systems, carbon capture)
• Human health (therapeutics, diagnostics, medical devices)
• Cellular agriculture and food innovation
• Advanced materials and synthetic biology
• Bio-AI and computational biology

Founder Profile:

• Scientists, researchers, post-docs, or technical founders
• First-time to repeat entrepreneurs welcome
• Ages 21-75, 40 nationalities represented
• 44% female founder companies
• "Too early" for other VCs is IndieBio's sweet spot
• Paper plans with no science done yet are acceptable

Location: Global applicants accepted; can work remotely or at SF/NY facilities

ZHC-Specific Fit

✅ Excellent for:

• Deep tech biotech requiring lab access
• Scientists transitioning to entrepreneurship
• Climate tech and food innovation projects
• Companies needing wet lab facilities and equipment
• Founders seeking technical biotech mentorship
• Projects "too early" for traditional VC
• Need for rapid prototyping and R&D iteration

❌ Poor fit if:

• Software-only or digital health solutions
• Already well-funded (Series A+)
• Not willing to commit to intensive program
• Looking only for capital without hands-on support

Application Process

Step	Timeline	Details
Application	Rolling admissions	Online application with written pitch + optional video
Initial review	1-2 weeks	Team reviews all applications
Interviews	2-4 weeks	Multiple rounds if strong interest
Offer	1-2 weeks	Invitation to join next cohort
Early funding	Up to 9 months pre-program	Can begin funding before intensive starts
Program start	Batch-specific dates	3-4 month intensive with lab access
Demo Day	End of program	Pitch to 1,000+ investors from 400+ firms
Follow-on	Ongoing	SOSV participates in 97% of rounds >$1M

Investment Terms

• Initial investment: Up to $525,000 at program start
• Equity: Varies by deal; SOSV targets ~10% long-term ownership
• Follow-on: SOSV invests through Series C; 80% of capital deployed post-program
• Lab access: $2M+ wet lab facilities included in SF and NY
• Workspace: Desk space directly adjacent to partner offices (no walls)
• Support: Daily 1:1 meetings available, 5 partners on calls

Key Program Features

• No fees: No separate program fees beyond equity
• High-touch model: Small cohorts ensure intensive support
• Technical expertise: Partners are experienced biotech operators
• Investor network: 400+ co-investment firms, thousands of investor connections
• Alumni network: 199 companies providing peer support
• Flexible structure: Remote, hybrid, or in-person options available

Application Tips

• Apply even if still in university or not full-time yet
• "Too early" is the right stage for IndieBio
• Emphasize revolutionary science and market disruption potential
• Be coachable and ready for rapid iteration
• Demonstrate technical capability and founding team strength

• Website: https://indiebio.co/
• Application portal: https://indiebio.co/apply/
• FAQ: https://indiebio.co/faq/
• Program details: https://indiebio.co/program/
• Portfolio companies: https://indiebio.co/companies/
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/indiebio
• Parent fund: SOSV (https://sosv.com/)
• Locations:
  • San Francisco: 479 Jessie St, San Francisco, CA 94103
  • New York: 1188 York Avenue, New York, NY 11016
• Email: Apply through website portal

Next Cohorts

• IndieBio San Francisco #16
• IndieBio New York #9
• Applications accepted on rolling basis