Life-Science Investimentos

Brazil’s underdeveloped life-sciences ecosystem spells both challenge and opportunity, according to João Paulo Poiares Baptista, Managing Director for life-sciences venture capital firm Burrill & Company.

Having raised a $125-million venture fund targeting Brazilian life-sciences investments, Baptista is excited by the opportunities while fatigued by the tough sell. In an exclusive Privcap interview, Baptista describes Brazil’s venture landscape; the dearth of biotech opportunities and abundance of healthcare opportunities; and the need for more applied research, better IP management at Brazilian universities, and more management with experience building and selling companies.