Excellis

Excellis specializes in identifying and backing promising Italian scientific talent who have established entrepreneurial ventures abroad. The firm strategically leverages Italy's outflow of intellectual capital, targeting researchers-turned-founders who are developing breakthrough innovations with global market potential. Their investment philosophy centers on deep-tech ventures built upon rigorous scientific foundations, particularly those with robust intellectual property protection and patent portfolios.

The investment portfolio spans four strategic sectors where Italian researchers have demonstrated particular excellence: Enabling Technologies, which includes advanced materials, quantum computing, and AI applications; Robotics, encompassing industrial automation and next-generation robotic systems; Cleantech, focusing on sustainable energy solutions and environmental technologies; and Med-tech, supporting innovative medical devices, diagnostic tools, and therapeutic approaches. This diversified yet focused approach allows Excellis to capitalize on Italy's scientific strengths while mitigating sector-specific risks.

Rather than leading investment rounds, Excellis employs a collaborative co-investment strategy, partnering with established international venture capital firms who serve as primary investors. This approach enables them to participate in pre-seed and seed-stage opportunities that have already undergone initial validation by respected industry players. By following the lead of experienced VCs, Excellis maximizes investment efficiency while gaining access to global networks and expertise that benefit their portfolio companies.

Beyond financial returns, Excellis maintains a dual-purpose mission that balances shareholder value creation with broader societal impact. The firm recognizes that deep-tech innovations often address fundamental challenges in healthcare, sustainability, and industrial efficiency. By supporting Italian researchers who might otherwise lack access to sufficient domestic funding, Excellis helps bridge the commercialization gap between academic research and market-ready technologies. This approach not only generates potential returns for investors but also strengthens connections between Italian scientific talent and the global innovation ecosystem, regardless of where these entrepreneurs ultimately build their companies.