Parkwalk, the UK’s most active investor in university spinouts, is pleased to announce the launch of the Oxford Venture Fund (OVF), its seventh fund dedicated to investing in companies emerging from the University of Oxford ecosystem.
Building on the success of six previous Oxford-focused funds, the Oxford Venture Fund provides investors with access to some of the UK’s most promising research-led businesses, alongside potential tax reliefs available through the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS).
What is the Oxford Venture Fund?
The Oxford Venture Fund is an EIS fund that invests in early-stage companies originating from the University of Oxford, one of the world’s most established and productive centres of scientific research and innovation. The fund is designed to provide investors with exposure to a diversified portfolio of university spinouts developing breakthrough technologies across sectors including AI, quantum computing, life sciences, digital health, hardware and more.
Managed by Parkwalk, the fund leverages more than 15 years of experience investing in university spinouts, combining investment expertise, extensive networks and a deep understanding of the commercialisation journey from laboratory research to global business.
Why invest in Oxford spinouts?
The University of Oxford continues to generate a consistent pipeline of high-quality spinout companies built on world-leading research and intellectual property. Supported by a mature innovation ecosystem that includes technology transfer, venture creation expertise and access to experienced investors, Oxford has established itself as one of the most attractive sources of early-stage investment opportunities in the UK and globally.
Oxford spinouts are tackling some of the world’s most significant challenges, developing innovations across DeepTech, HealthTech and CleanTech. These companies are created to commercialise pioneering research with the potential to achieve global impact.
Parkwalk’s track record in university spinout investing
Parkwalk was founded to bridge the gap between academic innovation and commercial success. Today, it is the UK’s most active investor in university spinouts, backing companies developing transformative technologies from leading universities and research institutions. Through its EIS funds and university partnerships, Parkwalk has invested in more than 200 companies spanning artificial intelligence, quantum computing, life sciences, cleantech, advanced materials and other goundbreaking technologies.
The Oxford Venture Fund builds on a long-standing relationship with the University of Oxford ecosystem and reflects Parkwalk’s commitment to supporting the next generation of breakthrough businesses emerging from world-class research.
Accessing innovation through the Enterprise Investment Scheme
The Oxford Venture Fund qualifies as an Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) investment, enabling eligible investors to access potential tax reliefs while supporting innovative UK businesses at a critical stage of growth. The fund offers a structured route into a portfolio of early-stage Oxford spinouts, providing exposure to companies with significant growth potential.
Investing in the future of Oxford innovation
The Oxford Venture Fund represents an opportunity to invest in companies built on world-class research at the point of commercialisation. By combining Oxford’s exceptional innovation ecosystem with Parkwalk’s specialist expertise in university spinouts, the fund aims to support the development of globally significant businesses addressing real-world challenges.
Find out more about backing technology spun out of the University of Oxford.
