Forbion Raises Record $2.6 Billion for Life Sciences Funds

Forbion has raised $2.6 billion across two new venture funds. The firm announced the record-breaking total, equivalent to 2.3 billion euros, on Tuesday, October 6, 2026.

This substantial sum, raised for the Forbion Growth Opportunities Fund IV and Forbion Ventures Fund VIII, significantly exceeded the firm's target. The fundraising is one of the largest life sciences venture capital fundraisings globally over the last five years. It brings Forbion's total assets under management to 7.5 billion euros.

Context of European Biotech Challenges

The announcement came during a broader decline for the European biotech industry. Last month, nine prominent board chairs pressed for policy changes to speed drug development and spur new investments in Europe. They argued that Europe has treated medicine "as a cost to suppress rather than one of the best investments a government can make."

Those company leaders pointed to Europe conducting fewer clinical trials and accounting for a smaller share of global pharmaceutical R&D. Much of that activity has shifted to China due to government support and greater regulatory flexibility. The U.S. continues to draw a bigger portion of biotech venture dollars. The nine executives wrote: "Europe’s alarm bells are ringing."

Forbion's Investment Track Record and Capacity

Forbion is Europe's largest dedicated life sciences venture capital firm. Based in the Netherlands, it has supported 142 companies since its inception. Its startups have brought 21 drugs or other medical products to market.

The firm has publicly announced at least 55 investments since the start of 2022. The two new funds combined have the capacity to finance approximately 30 high-potential portfolio companies. Sander Slootweg, Forbion’s co-founder and managing partner, said, Our successful fundraising gives us significant dry powder in a market characterized by a general shortage of capital.

Recent Successes and Investor Support

Forbion's portfolio includes companies that have delivered major exits. Its recent successes include several high-profile acquisitions and a public listing.

The latest fundraise drew backing from major institutional investors. Support came from both existing and new investors, including Dutch pension managers MN and PGGM, the Kauffman Foundation, Germany’s KfW Capital, and Eli Lilly. Robbert van de Griendt is General Partner, Investor Relations and Impact at Forbion. The first investments from the new funds have already been completed.