Mara Venture Fund was formed in 2001 as a partnership of investment and biotech industry professionals to finance early stage biotechnology companies. Because of our thorough understanding of the many facets of the biotechnology industry and extensive operational experience in start-up companies, our emphasis is on co-founding and building companies from the ground up. Mara offers a hands-on approach and expects to work closely with management both through a representation on the Board of Directors and frequent consultations. Portfolio companies will have access to our networks in the biotech and pharmaceutical industry. We will assist with international partnering and licensing, provide consultation on patent strategy and help with recruitment of top-level management. Mara will be advocates for the portfolio companies in locating follow-on investment rounds. As Mara is located on both sides of the Atlantic, we offer a unique blend of trans-Atlantic entrepreneurship and a valuable worldwide network that can be leveraged both for business development and financial syndication.