Transaction Case Studies

Situation Assessment

Leveraging proprietary network science & real-world transcriptomic datasets, the NewCo was formed to identify transcription factors (TFs) that drive cancerous phenotypes and develop oligonucleotides that can inhibit multiple TFs with a single therapeutic agent
As a co-founder, Locust Walk worked with the NewCo to develop a comprehensive business plan and secure an initial seed financing of $340K to efficiently generate validating PoC data

Key Activities

Collaborated with scientific founders to develop an optimal experimental plan, allowing for quick and efficient demonstration of proof of concept to situate the company for future raises
Provided thoughtful framing around the novel scientific approach, competitive differentiation, and intended corporate strategy to create a compelling investor story with strong positioning
Supported cap table modeling and scenario planning to guide financing decision-making
Organized targeted outreach to accredited institutional and individual seed investors and led pitch meetings to close a $340K Seed #1 financing despite minimal preclinical data on hand to validate the lead asset and platform
Directed the company through the financing process by capturing and organizing investor feedback and advising on diligence questions and concerns
Collaborated with the management team, Board of Directors, and legal counsel to drive the initial seed financing to deal close in an agreed-upon timeline

Successful Outcome

Raised an initial $340K Seed #1 with capital from Locust Walk and respected individual angel investors / biotech executives
Proceeds will fully fund platform PoC and in vivo PoC for the lead candidate
Data package generated from this capital-efficient round positions the company for a larger Seed #2 in ~6 months and eventual Series A
Introduced the story to prominent investors and strategic partners ahead of the subsequent Seed #2 financing to generate interest