Simplifying Complex Science into a Compelling Pitch

Therapeutics company seeks co-development partner

Case Details

Client Profile: Canadian research hospital spin-out company developing complex peptide-based anti-inflammatory receptor agonists for treatment of various indications

Client Need: Strategic partner, investment or exit

Result: Co-development deal with a publicly traded biotechnology company provided our client with undiluted capital, and additional development capabilities

The Challenge

The client was developing the next generation of medications to harness the body’s ability to defend against illness by modifying cellular response to disease. The lead asset had an extensive package of preclinical proof of concept data in various indications, but additional funding was required to conduct IND enabling studies and manufacture clinical trial supplies.

Prior to engaging Shadow Lake Group, the company had approximately 6 months cash runway remaining despite having spent significant focus on trying to partner the drug for several years.  The company had also received a term sheet from a potential partner that was aware of their desperate situation, as a result the terms were extremely unattractive, and, if accepted, would result in dissolution of the company.

What Did Shadow Lake Do

Within 6 months of engagement, Shadow Lake Group secured a leading publicly-traded biotech company to enter a co-development deal.

The Result

The deal infused the company with non-dilutive capital and resulted in the recruitment of an experienced CEO and management team.  As a result of this funding, the company has been able to successfully advance the asset into Phase 2 development.

Factors to Success

Simplifying and effectively selling an extremely complicated scientific message for a relatively unknown indication at that time
Global out-reach for partnering search
Customizing approach to manage cultural differences
Ensuring that opportunity was served up to a diverse group of stakeholders in a way that resonated (Board, Academic Institution, individual investors)