FACIT, Ontario’s oncology commercialization venture firm, announced the newest recipients of Ontario First seed capital through the latest round of its Prospects Oncology Fund: Dr. Rebecca Laposa of the University of Toronto, as well as London-based start-up Multi-Magnetics Inc., scientifically led by Dr. Jeffrey Carson and spun out of the Lawson Health Research Institute.
| TORONTO, Dec. 10, 2020 /PRNewswire/ - FACIT, Ontario’s oncology commercialization venture firm, announced the newest recipients of Ontario First seed capital through the latest round of its Prospects Oncology Fund: Dr. Rebecca Laposa of the University of Toronto, as well as London-based start-up Multi-Magnetics Inc., scientifically led by Dr. Jeffrey Carson and spun out of the Lawson Health Research Institute. Both entrepreneurial scientists were previously finalists in FACIT’s Falcons’ Fortunes pitch competitions. FACIT’s programs bridge the seed gap and support Ontario’s life sciences entrepreneurs and their innovations throughout various stages of early commercial development. Dr. Laposa is developing novel small-molecule inhibitors that target cancer cell mitochondria, a fuel source that many cancer cells rely on during chemotherapy. The initial indication for this potential drug candidate is high-risk early breast cancer. Multi-Magnetics is developing a hand-held device that uses photoacoustic imaging to detect tumour margins and residual disease in the surgical cavity during breast-conserving (lumpectomy) surgery. These two investments join the ranks of FACIT’s award winning investment portfolio, which has collectively attracted over $1 billion in follow-on financing from the private sector. FACIT is unique in its approach to leverage Ontario First capital to propel cancer IP and is strongly aligned with Ontario’s life sciences commercialization strategy. Indeed, FACIT’s maturing portfolio of oncology investments has helped bring industry and investors to Ontario, anchoring companies and jobs to the province. “We are pleased to support these Ontario entrepreneurs, and continue our mission to elevate local innovations to reach the market and benefit patients with cancer,” said Dr. David O’Neill, President of FACIT. “Given COVID-19 and heightened interest in the benefits of a homegrown healthcare industry, now is a critical time to continue maximizing the value of Ontario IP, encourage a new generation of biotech leaders, and support the province’s post-pandemic economic recovery.” “Ontario’s first-class researchers and research facilities allow Ontario to build on our strong reputation as a leader in cancer research and innovation,” said the Honourable Ross Romano, Ontario’s Minister of Colleges and Universities. “We are proud to see investments supporting Ontario-made research, innovation and commercialization that introduce new cutting-edge technologies that make a great difference for those battling breast cancer.” About FACIT About University of Toronto About Multi-Magnetics Inc.
SOURCE FACIT Inc. |
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