NaturalX Health Ventures, the venture capital arm of Schwabe Group, has launched a €100 million fund aimed at supporting early-stage consumer health startups across Europe.

This investment strategy leverages Schwabe Group's extensive pharmaceutical expertise alongside digital health innovations, with the goal of mirroring the successful U.S. market model in Europe.

Marvin Amberg, the founder of NaturalX, believes the European consumer health market is on the brink of significant growth, akin to trends observed in the U.S., where consumer-focused healthcare companies have thrived.

The consumer health market is evolving, driven by a growing interest among consumers in preventive health and science-backed products and services.

The fund will concentrate on proactive health solutions, particularly in areas such as sleep, gut health, prevention, longevity, and mental health, addressing the needs of underserved consumers.

NaturalX has already made investments in several startups, including mybacs, Flow Neuroscience, Kyan Health, and Meela, during its initial 18-month ramp-up phase.

The fund will primarily target Series A investments, with initial funding typically ranging from €3 million to €5 million, and potential follow-on investments of up to €10 million per company.

Amberg expressed enthusiasm for the fund's launch, noting a rising consumer focus on health management influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic and increasing health literacy.

Despite the success of American companies in the consumer health sector, European startups often struggle to secure necessary investments, a gap that NaturalX aims to fill.

NaturalX defines consumer health as the intersection of wellness and medicine, emphasizing the importance of science-backed products and services that prioritize consumer needs.

The entire €100 million fund has been financed by Schwabe, a well-established pharmaceutical conglomerate with a 150-year history.

The fund is actively expanding its investment team and seeks partnerships with European entrepreneurs who share its vision for reshaping consumer health.