Irish Venture Capital Association (IVCA) VenturePulse survey finds that Irish technology firms raised €110.7 million in the first half of 2009, up 7% on the previous year.
“This is a positive outcome for the Irish economy against a background of significant falls in investment activity levels around the world. Despite the global credit crunch Irish companies continue to attract venture capital,” commented John Tracey, chairman, IVCA and CEO, TVC Holdings Plc.
“The number of companies raising funds increased by 35% to 66 compared to 49 in the same period in 2008 and to 29 in 2007,” added Regina Breheny, director general, IVCA. She said that amounts raised ranged from €50,000 to €18 million. First round funding represented 22% of funds raised.
She added, “2008 was the best year for funding since 2002 so it is encouraging that investment levels have been maintained despite the recession. Research finds that VC backed firms employ more graduates, export more and grow faster than other companies and so are an important element in the goal of creating a smart economy.”
"17 Irish based venture capital funds and private investors were involved in 111 investments representing 67% of funds raised. 17 international funds and private investors participated in 19 investments and 33% of funds raised. “Irish tech firms continue to attract interest from overseas investors,” added Regina Breheny.
She said that an analysis of the investment shows a healthy diversity across a wide range of technologies. In the Pharma/Biotechnology sector, six companies raised €28.6m. 14 drug delivery and medical device companies raised €22.8m. In the telecoms sector, four companies raised €5m.
In the environment technology sector, five companies raised €17.4m. 12 companies raised €17.8m in other technology including nano technology, fibre optics, photonics and semiconductor chips. In the business services sector, 14 companies raised €11.2m. 11 other companies raised €7.9m. In the first half of 2009 24 seed or early stage companies raised €23.9m or 22% of funds raised.
