Empirical Ventures
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.
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.
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.
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.
Team
Dr. Ben Miles - Co-Founder & General Partner
Dr. Johnathan Matlock - Co-Founder & General Partner
Portfolio
Quantum Dice
Wave Photonics
Senisca
Forefront RF
Zero Point Motion
Scarlet Therapeutics
Lumi Industries
Intrinsic Semiconductor Technologies
BaseImmune
Anaphite
CheMastery
Wase
Ensilicated Technologies
QV Bioelectronics