News

Leading investor in university-originated deep tech, IP Group Australia, has announced a new A$125 million contribution from Hostplus to the IP Group Hostplus Innovation Fund.

Hostplus has added to its existing A$310m investment to bring its total commitment to $435m, backing companies like green hydrogen pathfinder Hysata, chronic lung disease therapy RAGE Biotech and sustainable lithium extractor Electralith.

IP Group ANZ CEO Michael Molinari said the increased Hostplus investment was a resounding vote of confidence in IP Group’s investment model and proof that universities are effective in commercialising deep tech.

“Hostplus recognises the significant financial and social potential from backing Australian deep-tech innovation,” Mr Molinari said.

“Our partnership has been instrumental in building and deepening the ecosystem, with IP Group-Hostplus backed companies raising nearly A$400m in capital and creating close to A$1 billion in value”.

The fund has invested in world-leading companies originating from IP Group’s Australian partner universities including Monash University (RAGE and Electralith), University of Sydney (AMSL Aero) and the ANU (Forge Photonics).

Hostplus CEO David Elia said the fund’s track record as one of Australia’s biggest investors in venture capital was possible because of the potential return on investment opportunities like this represent.   

“Through our investment with IP Group, Hostplus is helping to unlock the benefits of innovation and emerging technologies,” Mr Elia said.

“From biomedical therapies to renewable energy technology, the IP Group Hostplus Innovation Fund backs companies working to deliver sustainable and economy-building ideas that represent strong risk-adjusted returns for our members.

“We have invested in the IP Group Hostplus Innovation Fund since 2018 as we see it as an opportunity to support deep-tech companies in a way that aligns with our long-term investment strategy and our commitment to delivering value for our members.”

IP Group Hostplus Fund investments are impacting the world in areas like clean energy, decarbonisation of industrial processes and transportation, medicine, healthcare and quantum computing.

Alistair McCreadie, IP Group Australia Chief Investment Officer said, “Hostplus continues to be the leading institutional investor in Australian university originated deep-tech companies.

“The IP Group Hostplus Innovation Fund is delivering top quartile returns, proving the investment opportunity of creating deep tech companies from high-quality scientific research.

“Hostplus’ leadership and ongoing commitment to building an innovative economy for the benefit of all Australians sets them apart in the Australian investment landscape.

“We are delighted in their latest commitment and backing of this compelling asset class.”

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Media contact:

Craig Regan, Primary Communication on +408 448 527 or [email protected]

About IP Group

IP Group is the leading investor in university originated deep-tech companies in Australia and the UK. The Group pioneered a unique approach to developing intellectual property into valuable deep-tech companies. In Australia and New Zealand, IP Group works in close partnership with major universities to identify ground-breaking technologies which have the most promising commercial potential. IP Group, which is listed on the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange under the symbol IPO, has a strong track record of success and its portfolio comprises holdings in early stage to mature businesses across life sciences and technology. https://www.ipgroupanz.com/

About Hostplus

Hostplus is one of the largest industry super funds in Australia serving more than 1.8 million members and managing over $120 billion in funds under management. Hostplus continues to evolve and grow as the lifetime fund of choice for Australians and employers from a broad range of backgrounds and industries.