Matū
Venture capitalAuckland · Pre-Seed–Growth
Investment thesis
Matū invests in early-stage, IP-rich science and technology start-ups, preferably founded in New Zealand, with defensible intellectual property (patents or protectable trade secrets). It seeks ideas with large global commercial potential, a clear go-to-market pathway to paying customers, and passionate founders. Beyond capital, Matū contributes intellectual capital, governance, mentorship, and network support, working closely with founders from the earliest stages. The team includes people with scientific research backgrounds spanning materials science, biotechnology, and AI. Matū co-invests with syndicate partners to reduce risk, applies an ethical investment policy, and aims to strengthen New Zealand's scientific and innovation ecosystem while pursuing above-average returns.
Source: firm website, verified Aug 3, 2026.
Investments · 18 tracked
founders shown can be your intro pathEarly stage hi-tech company backed by Matū at an early stage.
Cloud-based software (ACABIM engine) automating compliance, auditing, and management of built assets for the AECO industries, supporting ISO-standard BIM and other open standards.
Biotechnology company that developed Iris™, a system-on-a-chip platform using thousands of nano-needles to deliver drug payloads into individual cells, offering higher conversion rates than virus-based cell editing methods.
Science-based start-up backed by Matū since its Seed round.
Deep tech start-up; Dr Katie Wilson is CTO.
Start-up co-founded by Daniel Ge, Sunny Feng and Dr Isaac Cleland.
Early-stage company commercialising the Aloxsyn® enzyme technology that prevents and repairs lipid oxidation damage in cell membranes, initially applied to livestock fertility (AI and IVF) with broader potential in human fertility and food/beverage shelf life.
Frequently asked questions
- What stage does Matū invest at?
- Matū invests at the Pre-Seed, Seed, Series A, Series B, Series C, Growth stages.
- What sectors does Matū focus on?
- Matū focuses on AgTech, AI & Machine Learning, Biotech, Cleantech, Deep Tech, Medical Devices, New Materials.
- Where is Matū located?
- Matū is headquartered in Auckland, NZ.
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