Empirical Ventures Fund I

Empirical Ventures

cb Email

Status

ACTIVE

Global HQ

Bristol, United Kingdom

Countries of investment

United Kingdom

Investment stages

Pre-seed
Seed

Industries

Life Sciences
Advanced Materials
TechBio
Photonics
Quantum Hardware
Robotics & Automation
AgChem/Tech
DeepTech
Energy

About
Empirical Ventures operates as a structured early-stage fund manager, combining venture investing with UK-specific tax-advantaged vehicles (SEIS/EIS). The firm emphasizes disciplined portfolio construction across high-risk early-stage bets, positioning itself as a gateway for investors into frontier innovation while managing downside through diversification and regulatory frameworks.

Min check size: $135K
Max check size: $1.3M
Fund size: Unlock
NPS: Unlock

Investment Thesis

Empirical Ventures focuses on early-stage, high-risk innovation, particularly in life sciences, advanced technologies, and deeptech, targeting SEIS/EIS-eligible startups in the UK. The thesis is built around identifying scientifically grounded companies with asymmetric upside, leveraging tax-efficient structures to support early capital formation.

Lead investor: Unlock
Co Invest: Unlock
Number of exits: Unlock
Preferred contact method: Unlock

Manager's Experience

Co-founders Miles and Matlock met at Bristol University spinout Ziylo (acquired by Novo Nordisk for $800M+). Founded Science Angel Syndicate (65+ investments, £6M+); Miles founded Spin Up Science (supported 4,500+ scientists, catalyzed 200+ deeptech companies). Both are scientists-turned-investors.