Building Business.
Rooted in Science.

Building the Future of Life Sciences:

Co-Founding, Investing, and Advising for Success.

Our approach.

We are a global partnership with a singular focus on the diagnostics and Life Science Tools sector. With partners across Switzerland, Germany, the USA, Finland, Belgium, and Portugal, we bring decades of experience in founding, growing, and successfully exiting 20+ companies in this specialized field. Our team combines deep industry expertise with a proven track record in senior executive roles at market-leading firms.

Our approach is threefold:

Company building

We work hand-in-hand with visionary entrepreneurs to co-found and build companies, providing strategic direction and operational support from the ground up.

Investing Our Own Funds

We back high-potential ventures with our own capital, leveraging our extensive network and resources to drive growth.

Expert Advisory Services

We also offer expert advisory services to private equity and venture capital firms, drawing on our unparalleled industry insights to help refine investment strategies and maximize returns.

With our unique focus on diagnostics and Life Science Tools, we are committed to transforming cutting-edge research into impactful solutions that address critical needs and shape the future of healthcare.

Experienced. Not old.

200 years experience in building companies.

Oliver Dick

Dr. Klaus-Dieter Langner

Dr. Thomas Schweins

Seppo Mäkinen

Dr. Mirko Stange

"The team at SLS Partners brings decades of business and strategic experience to our team. Mirko Stange was essential when founding Elastrin Therapeutics and Klaus-Dieter Langner adds a unique pharma expertise as one of our Board Members."
matthias
Dr. Matthias Breugelmans
CEO Elastrin Therapeutics
"SLS Partners was essential when launching PL Biosystems and certainly facilitated fund raising. Today, 4 years later and with strong revenue growth, we are still very happy that we can always turn to Thomas and Mirko for advice."
Christian Wilkes
CFO & Founder at PL BioScience GmbH

News

2023

Dec. 2023 | SLS Ventures hosts the Life Science track at Deeptech momentum

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Oct. 2023 | 6th DxPx Investor- & Industry conference surpasses expectations

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Oct. 2023 | Fluid AI announces $15M Series A Funding for AI-driven ostoperative Monitor

Click for more.

Mar. 2023 | Miltenyi Biotec acquires biosensor company lino Biotech

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elastrin logo

Jan. 2023 | SLS Venture partner Klaus-Dieter Langner joins scientific Advisory Board of Elastrin Therapeutics

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Contact

Adress: Brunnenstrasse 23, 40223 Dusseldorf, Germany
Oliver Dick

Oliver Dick

Oliver brings 30+ years of experience in the life sciences industry, has worked in pharma, biotechnology and in vitro diagnostics. His areas of expertise fall under Supply Chain Management, Planning, Production, QC, QA, Engineering, Technology Transfer and Process Improvement. Amongst his vast experience, Oliver held functions such as Vice President of Global Manufacturing at QIAGEN, Chief Operating Officer at Miltenyi Biotec or Chief Operating Office of Resolve Biosciences. He demonstrated exceptional leadership and expertise in driving manufacturing excellence on a global scale.  

Oliver has a proven ability to streamline processes, optimize production efficiency, and foster a culture of innovation. He was responsible for strategy development, scaling, cost control and quality and was part of multiple M&A projects and transfer of many new products from acquisition or own development. Today Oliver offers his expertise mainly through his own Consultancy Service Company ODICON.

Experiences & References
odicon
Resolve Biosciences
Klaus-Dieter Langner

Dr. Klaus-Dieter Langner

Born in Bayreuth, Germany, in 1956, Dr Klaus-Dieter Langner is a life sciences expert with more than 30 years experience in the development of new biological and new chemical entities.

After completing his Ph.D. in Molecular Biology at the University of Cologne (Institute of Genetics) in 1986, he started his career at Behringwerke AG (a subsidiary of the former Hoechst AG), where he focused on the production of recombinant human plasma proteins and the development of the first recombinant immunomodulators.

From 1992, he held various management positions including Head of the Corporate Coordination Office of the Executive Board, where he was responsible for leading the strategic reorganisation of the company.

In 1998, Dr Langner was appointed Head of Research at Grünenthal GmbH, responsible for all pre-clinical activities related to Grünenthal´s programmes in the areas of pain and certain neurological diseases.

In 2010, he was appointed Chief Operating Officer for the Strategic Business Unit Grünenthal Innovation and joined the Executive Committee as Chief Scientific Officer in 2013. Dr. Langner has been an active board member of several international start-up companies. Today he is an investor and business angel for healthcare and technology companies.

Experiences & References
Dr. Thomas Schweins

Dr. Thomas Schweins

Dr. Thomas Schweins is a Senior Vice President at QIAGEN, a leading Life Science Tools and Diagnostic company that specializes in the development and manufacture of advanced Sample and Assay Technologies for molecular biology. During his 20-year tenure, the company grew from about 250 MUSD to more than 2 BUSD in Sales1. At QIAGEN, Thomas was involved in the acquisition and integration of more than 50 biotech companies for total value of more than 3 BUSD.

Thomas joined QIAGEN’s Executive Committee in 2004 as Senior Vice President Marketing & Strategy. In this position, he played a key role in steering the global business towards Life Science and Diagnostic customers. In addition, Thomas has been the global Head of HR where he and his team introduced a new operating system to maximize the human capital of the company. Since 2016 he is responsible for the Life Science Business of QIAGEN, which generated in 2023 one billion USD in revenues with an EBIT margin of more than 40%. Prior to working at QIAGEN, Thomas Schweins worked at The Boston Consulting Group as a Principal in the Health-Care and Corporate-Development Practice before joining QIAGEN. Prior to that, he worked for Hoechst / Aventis as a Technology Manager and later as an Assistant to the Management Board.

Thomas earned his M.Sc. in Biochemistry from the University of Hanover and his Ph.D. from the Max Planck Society, where he was awarded in 1995 for his work with the Otto-Hahn medal1. He also received an M.Sc. from the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, where he studied from 1991 to 1994 Business Administration and Chemistry in Arieh Warshel lab, who was awarded the Nobel prize for Chemistry in 2013.

Thomas has a passion for science, innovation, and entrepreneurship, which is evident from his extensive experience in the biotechnology industry. He is also an avid sports enthusiast and enjoys mountain and road biking, among other sports. Thomas will join SLS Ventures following his retirement from Qiagen.

Experiences & References
Seppo Mäkinen

Seppo Mäkinen

Born in Sweden 1952 and educated in Finland, after his MSc degree ( physical chemistry ) in 1979 Seppo Mäkinen was running an analytical laboratory and became expert in chromatography. After R&D he jumped from customer to Sales & Marketing creating successful business in the Nordics for the Waters liquid chromatography company.

In 1987 he started his career in financing/ investment business, first as Director / Biosciences generalist fund called Sitra, after that co-founder of venture capital company BioFund, which he sold 2008 to a Danish banking group Capinordic. Since then he has acted as serial entrepreneur, investing in early stage medtech, diagnostic, digital health companies and at the same time working as partner / regional partner for the funds Merieux Developpement, France and Pathena, Portugal.

Seppo Mäkinen has been active board member/owner in about 50 international companies with active role in companies like Pharming healthcare, Exiqon, Ginolis, Kone Instruments (ThermoFisher), Wallac (PerkinElmer), Merlin Diagnostica and many others. He has been member of the board in many listed companies like Bittium Oyj and Optomed Oyj, ValiRx plc and always had an active role in building the international business. Since 2018 he has successfully exited about one company p.a. from his own portfolio. His main expertise these days is in telemedicine, digital health / AI and healthcare services combined with diagnostics and therapeutics.

Experiences & References
mirko stange

Dr. Mirko Stange

Born in Bremen, Germany in 1974, Dr. Mirko Stange is a diagnostics and life sciences expert with a proven track record in turning around and commercializing innovations. He possesses extensive executive management experience, having led diagnostics and biotech startups, as well as developing and conducting consulting products. Following the completion of his Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Biophysics at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Dr. Stange began his career in 2004 at the strategy consultancy McKinsey. Subsequently, he worked with the turnaround-specialized advisory firm Droege & Comp., primarily serving clients from the pharma and chemistry industry in Germany and Switzerland.

In 2008, he founded an independent Life Sciences consultancy in Germany where, to date, he leads and directs a team of international experts. This team identifies and funds SMEs with high potential for national and international leverage. In addition to his over ten years of experience in independent corporate finance and management consulting, Mirko Stange provides interim management services to selected clients. To date, three companies co-founded and managed/advised by Dr. Stange have been successfully exited. Leveraging his scientific background, he is also a named inventor on several granted and pending patents.

Experiences & References

SLS Ventures proud to host the Life Science track at the Deeptech momentum conference www.deeptech.build together with TechStar.

SLS Ventures is thrilled to announce its prestigious role as the host for the Life Science track at the highly anticipated Deeptech Momentum Conference, in collaboration with TechStar. As a leader in the field of venture capital and innovation, SLS Ventures recognizes the significance of bringing together visionaries, experts, and enthusiasts from the life sciences domain to explore the latest advancements and foster collaboration.

The Life Science track curated by SLS Ventures at the Deeptech Momentum Conference promises to be a groundbreaking event, showcasing the cutting-edge developments, disruptive technologies, and groundbreaking research that define the landscape of life sciences in the current era. This exclusive track serves as a platform for industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors to engage in meaningful discussions, share insights, and catalyze the next wave of innovations in life sciences.

The conference, hosted at www.deeptech.build, is set to be a convergence point for professionals across various sectors, with a focus on the intersection of technology and life sciences. SLS Ventures, in collaboration with TechStar, is committed to curating a program that delves into the depths of deeptech innovations, providing attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the transformative potential of technology in the life sciences sector.

Attendees can expect a diverse range of sessions, including keynote presentations from trailblazing leaders in the life sciences industry, panel discussions featuring experts from academia, industry, and venture capital, as well as interactive workshops and networking opportunities. The Life Science track is designed to cover a spectrum of topics, spanning from biotechnology and pharmaceuticals to digital health and medical devices.

SLS Ventures recognizes the importance of fostering an ecosystem where collaboration and knowledge-sharing thrive. By hosting the Life Science track at the Deeptech Momentum Conference, SLS Ventures aims to facilitate meaningful connections between stakeholders, paving the way for groundbreaking collaborations, investments, and partnerships that will shape the future of the life sciences industry.

The partnership with TechStar further strengthens the conference’s position as a hub for deeptech enthusiasts, bringing together the expertise of two influential entities dedicated to driving innovation and fostering the growth of transformative technologies. Together, SLS Ventures and TechStar are poised to elevate the Life Science track to new heights, providing attendees with an unparalleled experience that blends insightful content, networking opportunities, and a glimpse into the future of life sciences.

As SLS Ventures takes pride in its role as the host for the Life Science track at the Deeptech Momentum Conference, it invites professionals, thought leaders, and enthusiasts from the life sciences and technology sectors to join this immersive event. Together, let us embark on a journey of exploration, collaboration, and innovation as we shape the future of deeptech in life sciences.

SLS Venture‘s 6th „DxPx Iinvestor conference“takes place in Munich, Germany

SLS Ventures is excited to announce the much-anticipated 6th edition of the “DxPx Investor Conference,” set to take place in the vibrant city of Munich, Germany. This annual conference has become a hallmark event in the world of venture capital and diagnostics, attracting key players, investors, and innovators from across the globe.

Munich, known for its rich cultural heritage and technological prowess, provides the perfect backdrop for the DxPx Investor Conference, and SLS Ventures is proud to once again bring together a diverse array of professionals within the diagnostics and precision medicine space. The city’s dynamic atmosphere is sure to enhance the collaborative spirit of the event, fostering an environment conducive to insightful discussions and networking opportunities.

The DxPx Investor Conference has earned its reputation as a premier platform for connecting entrepreneurs, startups, and established companies with leading investors in the diagnostics and precision medicine sectors. As SLS Ventures spearheads the 6th edition of this conference, attendees can expect an enriching experience that goes beyond traditional networking, offering a unique blend of knowledge-sharing, investment opportunities, and industry insights.

The conference agenda is carefully curated to cover a wide spectrum of topics relevant to the ever-evolving landscape of diagnostics and precision medicine. From breakthrough technologies and novel diagnostic tools to investment trends and market dynamics, the DxPx Investor Conference in Munich promises to provide attendees with a comprehensive overview of the current state and future potential of the industry.

Key features of the conference include engaging keynote presentations from thought leaders in the diagnostics sector, panel discussions with industry experts, and interactive workshops designed to address the challenges and opportunities facing entrepreneurs and investors alike. SLS Ventures is committed to ensuring that the DxPx Investor Conference remains at the forefront of innovation, showcasing the latest advancements that are shaping the future of diagnostics.

The choice of Munich as the conference venue reflects not only the city’s global significance in the life sciences and technology sectors but also its commitment to fostering innovation. Munich’s strategic location in the heart of Europe makes it an ideal meeting point for professionals from around the world, facilitating cross-border collaboration and global partnerships.

In collaboration with key stakeholders and partners, SLS Ventures is dedicated to making the 6th DxPx Investor Conference a resounding success. By bringing together investors, startups, and industry leaders in Munich, SLS Ventures aims to catalyze meaningful connections and propel the diagnostics and precision medicine sectors to new heights.

As the anticipation builds for the 6th edition of the DxPx Investor Conference in Munich, SLS Ventures invites all stakeholders in the diagnostics and precision medicine community to join this milestone event. Together, let us explore, collaborate, and contribute to the continued advancement of innovation in diagnostics, shaping the future of healthcare on a global scale.

FluidAI Medical Secures $15M Series A Funding to Propel AI-Driven Postoperative Care Innovations and Improve Patient Outcomes

FluidAI Medical, a trailblazer in utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) for postoperative patient monitoring, has secured $15 million in Series A funding. The funding round was led by SOSV and Graphene Ventures, with participation from Boutique Venture Partners, Threshold Impact, Cur8 Capital, Leva Capital, Kyto Technology & Life Science Inc., Juno Pharmaceuticals, and various esteemed angels, funds, and government funding organizations. The announcement was made on October 10, 2023, in Kitchener, ON.

Postoperative complications pose significant risks, ranging from infections and bleeding to severe disability or death. FluidAI addresses these challenges with its innovative Stream™ Platform, incorporating advanced sensors and an AI-driven algorithm. This platform enables early detection of anastomotic leaks, a particularly devastating complication after surgery, minimizing risks such as sepsis and reducing mortality rates.

Anastomotic leaks have an average incidence rate of 8% across surgeries, spiking to 30% in complex procedures, with a concerning mortality rate of 12%. FluidAI’s technology aims to empower surgeons by identifying leaks early, leading to improved clinical outcomes and efficiencies within the healthcare system.

The $15 million funding will support FluidAI in deepening medical record integration, expanding into global markets, growing its team, and introducing novel AI-driven solutions for a broader range of postoperative complications. Youssef Helwa, CEO of FluidAI, expressed gratitude for the investors’ trust and support, highlighting the company’s mission to push the boundaries of postoperative care for safer and quicker patient recovery.

Duncan Turner, SOSV GP, commended FluidAI as an example of AI-powered sensing saving lives, emphasizing its potential to enhance clinical outcomes, reduce hospital stays, and improve cost efficiencies across the healthcare ecosystem.

FluidAI, formerly known as NERv Technology Inc., is a Canadian medical technology company dedicated to advancing postoperative care through AI-driven solutions. The funding aligns with the company’s vision to transform postoperative care and improve patient outcomes.

SOSV, a global venture capital firm, focuses on funding deep tech startups dedicated to human and planetary health. With a diverse team and a portfolio representing 84 nationalities, SOSV aims to accelerate global innovation.

Graphene Ventures, established in 2015, is a venture capital firm specializing in direct investments in private technology companies. With a global reach and offices in Palo Alto, Toronto, São Paulo, and Riyadh, Graphene Ventures brings decades of expertise in growing high-impact startups.

SLS Venture‘s lino Biotech: Acquired by Miltenyi.

In a groundbreaking development that underscores the dynamism and strategic vision of SLS Ventures, the life sciences venture capital firm, it is with great excitement that we announce the acquisition of lino Biotech, one of its innovative portfolio companies, by Miltenyi Biotec. This strategic move marks a significant milestone in the journey of lino Biotech and exemplifies the success of SLS Ventures in identifying and nurturing transformative biotechnology ventures.

Lino Biotech, known for its cutting-edge technologies and solutions in the life sciences and biotech sectors, has been at the forefront of innovation under the guidance and support of SLS Ventures. The acquisition by Miltenyi Biotec, a global leader in cell and gene therapy, is a testament to the exceptional value and potential that lino Biotech brings to the industry.

Miltenyi Biotec’s decision to acquire lino Biotech underscores the strategic importance of the technologies and intellectual property developed by the company. This acquisition not only validates the innovative approach of lino Biotech but also positions Miltenyi Biotec at the forefront of advancements in the rapidly evolving field of biotechnology.

For SLS Ventures, the successful acquisition of lino Biotech by Miltenyi Biotec is a testament to its commitment to identifying and supporting groundbreaking ventures. The collaboration between SLS Ventures and lino Biotech has not only been about financial investment but also about fostering an environment that enables scientific innovation and entrepreneurial success.

The acquisition by Miltenyi Biotec opens up new horizons for lino Biotech, providing access to additional resources, global networks, and industry expertise. Miltenyi Biotec’s commitment to advancing cell and gene therapy aligns seamlessly with the pioneering work of lino Biotech, creating a synergistic partnership that has the potential to reshape the landscape of biotechnology and life sciences.

As lino Biotech becomes an integral part of Miltenyi Biotec, the journey continues into a new phase of growth and impact. The combined strengths of lino Biotech’s innovation and Miltenyi Biotec’s global reach hold the promise of accelerating the development and commercialization of transformative technologies that can revolutionize the biotech and life sciences industries.

SLS Ventures takes pride in its role as a catalyst for success in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, and the acquisition of lino Biotech by Miltenyi Biotec is a shining example of the firm’s ability to identify, invest in, and nurture ventures that drive meaningful change in the biotechnology sector. This success story reinforces SLS Ventures’ reputation as a strategic partner for companies with groundbreaking potential.

In conclusion, the acquisition of lino Biotech by Miltenyi Biotec stands as a testament to the visionary approach of SLS Ventures and the innovative prowess of lino Biotech. As the journey of lino Biotech transitions into a new chapter under the Miltenyi Biotec umbrella, the collective impact on the biotech and life sciences sectors is poised to be transformative, shaping the future of scientific discovery and therapeutic solutions.

SLS-Ventures Portfolio Company Elastrin Therapeutics Unveils Scientific Advisory Board Formation

elastrin adboardGreenville, South Carolina, USA – Elastrin Therapeutics Inc., a biotechnology firm in the SLS-Ventures portfolio, has disclosed the establishment of its Scientific Advisory Board. The company, operating as a privately held entity, utilizes a platform technology to develop therapeutic solutions that restore suppleness to calcified tissues and organs. The Scientific Advisory Board comprises leading industry and university experts in cardiovascular research and clinical development.

Dr. Pedro M. Quintana Diez, the former CMO of Elastrin Therapeutics, will assume the role of Chairman of the Scientific Advisory Board. In collaboration with Elastrin Therapeutics’ leadership, he will actively contribute to advancing the development of its lead product, ELT-001, and other programs within its pipeline. ELT-001, the company’s flagship asset, is an EDTA-loaded nanoparticle conjugated with a proprietary monoclonal antibody designed for treating vascular calcification.

“We are privileged to engage with an exceptional group of medical scientists, cardiovascular experts, and pharmaceutical executives on our Scientific Advisory Board,” stated Dr. Matthias Breugelmans, CEO of Elastrin Therapeutics. “These members bring a profound understanding of cardiovascular research and extensive expertise in clinical drug development. We look forward to benefiting from their insights as Elastrin Therapeutics continues to evolve.”

“Elastrin exemplifies the kind of investment opportunity SLS-Ventures seeks: not just addressing age-related processes but actively reversing them,” emphasized Patrick Burgermeister, Partner at SLS-Ventures Technology Capital and a member of Elastrin Therapeutics’ Board of Directors.

Elastrin Therapeutics’ Scientific Advisory Board comprises distinguished members:

Prof. Charles O’Neill, MD: With over 20 years of active basic and clinical research in vascular calcification, Dr. O’Neill, a practicing nephrologist, has a specific interest in vascular calcification in patients with chronic kidney disease.

Prof. Elena Aikawa, MD, PhD: As a Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School, Dr. Aikawa focuses on developing therapies to prevent and treat calcific aortic valve stenosis.

Prof. Frank Rutsch, MD: An Associate Professor in Pediatrics at Münster University Children’s Hospital, Dr. Rutsch’s research primarily focuses on discovering genetic defects in rare pediatric metabolic and autoimmune disorders.

Dr. Klaus-Dieter Langner: A life science expert with over 32 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, Klaus-Dieter Langner now serves as a business angel, consultant, and mentor.

Prof. Linda Hands, MD: A Clinical Reader at the University of Oxford and Honorary Consultant Vascular surgeon, Dr. Hands has a research background in cytokine production by atherosclerotic arteries, venous disease, and telemedicine.

Dr. Pedro M. Quintana Diez, M.D.: With over 20 years of clinical development experience, Pedro has served in leadership positions at Sensory Sciences LLC, Grunenthal, Abbvie, and ParinGenix, managing Phase II and III developments in cardiovascular and lung diseases.

Dr. Yuri Martina, MD, MBA: With more than 20 years of experience in clinical research and development leadership, Yuri currently serves as SVP and Head of Development at Grünenthal Pharma in Germany.

About Elastrin Therapeutics Inc.
Elastrin Therapeutics, based in South Carolina, is a biotech company within the SLS-Ventures portfolio, focused on developing innovative therapies to reverse cardiovascular disease. Dr. Naren Vyavahare developed the underlying technology over the past 20 years at Clemson University. The company’s proprietary platform targets and restores degraded elastin, eliminating harmful calcification that stiffens arteries. This approach significantly enhances drug efficacy and minimizes side effects through the combination of particle design with elastin targeting.

For additional information, please visit www.elastrin.com.