Martlet Capital

Overview

Martlet Capital is an early-stage venture capital firm based in Cambridge, UK, investing in pre-seed and seed-stage deep technology and life sciences B2B startups. It provides patient capital starting at £250,000, along with strategic guidance and operational support, targeting companies with strong IP and high growth potential in sectors like AI, digital health, genomics, robotics, and sustainable technologies. The firm has backed over 70 startups with a current portfolio of 53 active companies valued at £23.3 million and notable exits including Abcam and Cambridge CMOS Sensors.

History

Martlet Capital was founded in 2011 in Cambridge, UK, as an early-stage VC firm focused on deep tech and life sciences. It established itself in the Cambridge startup ecosystem with investments in over 70 companies and successful exits. In May 2024, EMV Capital acquired its operational business and portfolio management, maintaining the Martlet brand and investment strategy.

Notable Products

• Abcam - Biotech company achieved successful exit via IPO.
• Cambridge CMOS Sensors - Sensor technology firm with notable exit to global acquirer.

Reputation

Martlet Capital is recognized in the Cambridge ecosystem as a reliable seed investor for IP-rich deep tech and life sciences startups, valued for patient capital and hands-on support. Professionals note its strong track record of exits and network access. Some view it as regionally focused rather than national scale.