Bayer has launched Co.Lab AdVenture, a new platform under its global life sciences incubator network, designed to connect high-potential biotech start-ups with leading venture capital partners worldwide. The initiative aims to accelerate access to financing and strategic investment networks, helping translate early-stage ideas into impactful healthcare solutions.

The announcement coincided with the first anniversary of Bayer Co.Lab Shanghai, which also welcomed two new Chinese start-ups, OTR Therapeutics and Nutshell Therapeutics, into its growing innovation community. Bayer said the milestone marks a significant step in its open innovation strategy and reflects its commitment to embedding itself in countries with strong innovation ecosystems, while strengthening global collaboration.

“Collaboration is essential to driving pharmaceutical innovation,” said Juergen Eckhardt, M.D., Head of Business Development and Licensing at Bayer’s Pharmaceuticals Division. “By partnering with venture capital firms, we can empower biotech entrepreneurs with access to financing and networks that accelerate their growth and deliver transformative innovations to address global health challenges.”

The first venture capital partners joining Co.Lab AdVenture include Shanghai Industrial Investment Capital, Legend Capital, IDG Capital, and Bayland Capital. These firms will provide strategic advice, investment opportunities, and local expertise to Bayer Co.Lab residents.

With incubators in Berlin, Cambridge (USA), Kobe, and Shanghai, Bayer Co.Lab provides entrepreneurs with resources, mentorship, and global connections. In China, Bayer has further cemented its innovation footprint with R&D centres, production facilities, and academic collaborations, reinforcing its mission of “Health for all, Hunger for none.”