In an exciting move, life sciences investor BEVC is stepping into the climate tech arena with a new $25 million fund, as revealed in a recent SEC filing. Founded last year in Berkeley, California, BEVC is expanding its focus from life sciences to include startups addressing climate-related challenges.
Despite its young age, BEVC is already making waves. The firm, established by Rowan Chapman, Widya Mulyasasmita, and Risa Stack—each with impressive credentials in life sciences—has shifted its attention to climate tech. This aligns with a broader trend where life sciences investors are increasingly investing in planetary health. Notably, RA Capital's recent hire of a planetary health team and Flagship Pioneering's substantial $3.6 billion raise for health and sustainability reflect this growing trend.
Why this dual focus? As RA Capital's Kyle Teamey puts it, "In an unhealthy environment, you just don’t have healthy people." This philosophy underscores BEVC’s new strategy, merging its life sciences expertise with a commitment to environmental sustainability.
BEVC’s founders bring a wealth of experience to the table. Rowan Chapman, with a PhD in biochemistry, previously led innovation at Johnson & Johnson. Widya Mulyasasmita, a bioengineering PhD, co-founded OliLux Biosciences and worked with B Capital Group. Risa Stack, who holds a PhD in immunology, has co-founded Menlo Micro and held positions at RA Capital and GE Ventures.
The firm’s advisory board further strengthens its position, featuring Nobel laureates Jennifer Doudna and Carolyn Bertozzi, UC Berkeley’s David Schaffer, and former Howard Hughes Medical Institute president Robert Tjian.
As BEVC sets its sights on climate tech, it is poised to make a significant impact, bridging its life sciences roots with new environmental challenges.
