Taiwan Universe BioMedicine (TaiU), a startup originating from the National Health Research Institutes, has successfully completed a seed funding round of approximately US$2 million. This investment, led by Mosaic Venture Lab’s Seed Fund, also includes a matching contribution from the National Development Fund, supported by various Taiwanese agencies.
TaiU is set to accelerate the development of its bivalent enterovirus vaccine and a seasonal influenza VLP vaccine, aiming for clinical trials. CEO Dr. Min-hsi Lee highlighted ongoing joint venture discussions with major Vietnamese pharmaceutical entities for their leading enterovirus vaccine. Meanwhile, their influenza VLP vaccine is attracting international interest due to its rapid adaptability to viral mutations, with discussions underway with a significant global pharmaceutical company.
Advisors like Dr. Mei-shang Ho from the Taiwan Association for Vaccine Industry emphasize the potential of VLP technology in revolutionizing vaccine development with its safety and efficacy. Professor Peter Chang praised TaiU’s integration of research and industry efforts as a pivotal move for Taiwan’s biomedical sector.
Johnny Yu, from both TAVI and MVL, stressed the importance of innovative companies like TaiU in addressing industry gaps. The funds raised will support preclinical trials, with plans to submit an IND application by 2026 and aim for stock market listing by 2028, marking TaiU as a key player in Taiwan’s vaccine industry.
