H.I.G. Realty Forms Strategic Partnership with Queen Mary BioEnterprises in London

H.I.G. Realty Partners with Queen Mary BioEnterprises Innovation Centre

H.I.G. Capital, a leading global alternative investment firm managing $67 billion, has recently entered a significant strategic partnership with the Queen Mary BioEnterprises Innovation Centre (QMB) located in London. This collaboration focuses on delivering 3,700 square meters of incubator space at the flagship innovation center in Whitechapel. H.I.G., along with its developmental partner Lateral, a UK-based real estate developer, aims to boost the life sciences sector in the area.

The partnership engages notable local players such as Barts Life Sciences (BLS), Barts Health NHS Trust, Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), and the UK Department of Health and Social Care. This initiative is a vital milestone for the Whitechapel Life Science Cluster and is intended to foster a world-class bioscience ecosystem. It aims at accelerating the development of transformative healthcare treatments and outcomes.

The upcoming state-of-the-art incubator and its shared services will create a conducive ecosystem tailored for launching and scaling digital startups. This strategic move not only supports the local economy by attracting growing businesses and spin-outs but is also critical for developing a reliable talent pool in the biotechnology and life science disciplines.

Jérôme Fouillé, the General Director of H.I.G. Realty in Europe, expressed his enthusiasm about collaborating with QMB, emphasizing that this project will catalyze the creation of a vibrant life sciences cluster in Whitechapel. He mentioned, "Providing high-quality facilities and support services cultivates an environment where innovative startups can thrive. This is crucial for achieving groundbreaking healthcare results."

Ted Webster, Chair of QMB, described the partnership as an exciting opportunity to extend their proven model for supporting biotech startups. The new space will empower the next generation of cutting-edge companies by equipping them with the necessary resources to succeed. He remarked, "We are committed to driving scientific advancements that yield significant benefits for both the community and beyond."

The Queen Mary BioEnterprises Innovation Centre, established in 2011, serves as London's first fully purpose-built facility catering to early and late-stage chemistry and biology startups. It currently offers 3,600 square meters of commercial wet-lab and office space. The QMB's rich history and proven track record in supporting the growth of innovative companies have made it a cornerstone of the local biotech sector, facilitating access to world-class facilities at Queen Mary University of London's School of Medicine and Dentistry.

The latest addition to QMB's capacity at Cavell Street is anticipated to provide a stimulating environment for emerging life science enterprises, fueling their innovation and growth. H.I.G. Capital, since its inception in 1993, has invested in and managed over 400 companies across various sectors internationally. With more than 100 companies currently in its portfolio, which boast a total revenue exceeding $53 billion, H.I.G. remains committed to offering both debt and equity solutions to middle-market businesses.

In summary, the partnership between H.I.G. Realty and Queen Mary BioEnterprises marks a significant stride towards establishing an advanced life sciences cluster in London, enhancing innovation, education, and job creation in the region.