• UAE-based healthtech BioSapien has extended its pre-Series A funding round  to $7 million, joined by new investors like Golden  Gate Ventures, marking the first deployment of its dedicated MENA Fund. 
• Founded in 2018 by Khatija Ali, BioSapien offers a flagship product, MediChip™, which is a drug delivery, 3D-printed, slow-release delivery platform attachable to any tissue with minimal systemic side effects.
• The extension follows December’s $5.5 million pre-Series A funding round, which was led by Global Ventures, with additional participation from Dara Holdings.

Press release:

BioSapien, the pioneering biotech company behind MediChip™, a  revolutionary localised cancer treatment platform, has successfully extended its pre-Series A funding round  to $7 million. This milestone includes new strategic investment from leading investors, including Golden  Gate Ventures, marking its first deployment through its dedicated MENA Fund. 

The urgency to tackle escalating cancer rates, coupled with the UAE's forward-thinking healthcare  initiatives, makes this the ideal moment for BioSapien’s expansion. By leveraging advanced 3D printing  technology, MediChip™ offers a breakthrough approach by delivering targeted, localised treatment, reducing  systemic side effects, and improving patient outcomes. This innovation aligns seamlessly with the UAE's  focus on elevating quality of life through technology. 

This investment reinforces BioSapien’s commitment to advancing patient-centred oncology solutions  while contributing to the UAE's growing prominence as a global leader in health innovation. The funding will  accelerate clinical trials in the UAE for MediChip™, BioSapien’s patented 3D-printed, slow-release drug  delivery platform, with UAE clinical trials set to begin in Q2 2025. Additionally, the capital will be allocated  to product development and scaling manufacturing capabilities. 

The UAE's dedication to fostering cutting-edge medical advancements is pivotal to BioSapien’s mission.  MediChip™’s first-in-region clinical trials represent a significant milestone, enhancing Abu Dhabi's position  as a global healthcare innovation hub. The collaboration with local stakeholders underscores the Gulf  region's potential as a key player in pioneering treatments that address global healthcare challenges. 

The extension follows December’s $5.5 million pre-Series A funding round, which was led by MENA’s  leading VC firm Global Ventures, with additional participation from Dara Holdings.  

Khatija Ali, CEO and Founder of BioSapien, said:  

“We are delighted to announce our new investment and are grateful for all the support we have received.  The expertise and belief in our vision from our investors come at a critical juncture as we initiate clinical  trials in Abu Dhabi. Together, we are working towards a future where localised cancer treatment becomes  the global standard.” 

Michael Lints, Partner at Golden Gate Ventures MENA, commented:  

“Having met CEO and Founder Khatija at Hub71 in Abu Dhabi, we were instantly impressed by her passion  and vision. Investing in BioSapien aligns with our commitment to supporting transformative technologies  that address significant global challenges. This investment not only supports a groundbreaking technology  but also reinforces the Gulf region’s role as a global leader in healthcare innovation.” 

BioSapien’s flagship product - MediChip™ - is a drug delivery, 3D-printed, slow-release delivery platform  attachable to any tissue with minimal systemic side effects. 

By delivering medication directly to the tumour, MediChip™ minimises side effects often associated with  systemic chemotherapy. Local delivery also requires fewer quantities of drugs to be used while still  effectively treating the tumour.  

Initially, BioSapien is developing its platform for clinical trials in colorectal cancer patients, with scope to  branch out to other cancers (pancreatic, lung), and non-cancer indications such as opioids, hormones,  biologics, and cell and gene therapies. The company’s mission is to treat over one million patients by 2035 via  its versatile technology.