Helix Fund

Helix Fund is a venture capital fund managed by the St. Louis County Port Authority, focusing on early-stage investments in bioscience and technology sectors within the St. Louis area. The fund was established to address the funding needs of plant and life science entrepreneurs, aiming to promote the growth of these industries in the region. It collaborates with various partners, including the Nidus Investment Partners L.P., Danforth Plant Science Center, BioGenerator, Innovate St. Louis, St. Louis Arch Angels, and Prolog Ventures, to co-invest and leverage expertise in supporting emerging businesses.

The fund provides approximately $1.5 million in funding for emerging plant and life sciences businesses, offering both financial support and access to entrepreneurial talent and expertise. Eligible companies must be referred to the Helix Fund for investment consideration by one of its partners. The fund also offers a loan program for small- to medium-sized companies expanding or relocating to St. Louis County. This initiative is part of a broader effort to foster economic development and job creation in the region by supporting the commercialization of technology and innovation in the bioscience sector.

In addition to its investment activities, the Helix Fund is associated with the Helix Center, a business incubator that provides affordable office and laboratory space to early-stage firms. The Helix Center is located near the Danforth Plant Science Center and BRDG Park, offering a conducive environment for startups to grow and thrive. This collaboration underscores the fund's commitment to creating a supportive ecosystem for bioscience and technology entrepreneurs in the St. Louis area, aiming to attract and retain talent and foster innovation within the region.