BioFund Family Office · Early-stage mentoring · Pro bono

First Light

Pro-bono mentoring for scientists and founders at the very beginning, from the first idea to the first company. Given freely, when it matters most.

Start a conversation Our promises

Why we do this

The hardest moment for a scientist with a good idea is the beginning. The questions are big, the money is small, and the advice often comes with a price tag attached.

First Light is our answer. We sit down with you early, listen properly and share what we have learned, without asking for anything in return.

David Maasz · Founding Member and Chair, BioFund Family Office

First Light grows from the BioFund Foundations, the ideas behind everything we do.

Who it's for

As early as you like

No pitch deck and no company needed. Just an idea that could help people or animals live longer, healthier lives.

Stage 0

Researchers with an idea

Scientists wondering if their work could become something bigger.

Stage 1

Teams forming a company

Founders shaping their first plan and first team.

Stage 2

First-time founders

Founders of young companies who want an experienced voice beside them.

What we talk about

Whatever the beginning needs

No fixed curriculum. We follow the questions you actually have.

From science to venture

Turning research into a focused plan you believe in.

IP and open science

When to patent, when to publish, and how to stay free to operate.

Partners and funding

Finding the right collaborators and the right money, at the right time.

Team and founder

Building a team, leading it, and staying well through the hard parts.

The path

How a First Light relationship unfolds

We take on a small number of teams, so each one gets real time.

Hello

A first conversation

Directly or through one of our partner institutions.

Match

Mentors chosen for you

The people in the BioFund Family best placed to help you.

Walk

Regular conversations

In person or remote, for as long as it helps.

Later, maybe

An invitation, never a condition

Some teams may later be invited to talk about investment from BioFund or Friends of BioFund. Always a separate conversation, decided together.

Our promises

What you can count on

Mentoring works only when people can speak freely.

Pro bono: Always. No fees and no equity.
No obligation: Taking part never commits you to BioFund.
Confidential: What you share stays between you and your mentors, and they tell you about any interests that touch your work.
Investment: Never expected. Any later conversation is separate and on your terms.

Sister program

BioFund Platform Partners

When your work needs real capabilities, our technology platforms are open to you, from biodeep to UFP500°.

Visit Platform Partners

Now opening in Europe

Tell us what you are working on.

A short note is enough: who you are and what you are exploring. We reply personally.

Your first conversation

contact@biofund.org

biofund.org

Europe · Canada · United States