Nordic Science Investments (NSI), a Finland-based spinout investment firm, is selling a majority stake to asset management group Taaleri.
NSI’s management is selling 51%, though a prize has not been disclosed. The transaction includes milestones that, if met, may entitle NSI to additional capital, though that sum was also undisclosed. If agreed targets are not met, the transaction may be unwound.
The deal is being struck by NSI to strengthen later stage support for its growing portfolio, while at the same time expanding its geographic reach.
NSI launched its inaugural fund, Nordic Science I, in 2024, raising €45 million. LPs include Tesi, Lieto Savings Bank Foundation, Fennia, and the Estonian SmartCap Venture Capital Fund.
The fund has backed 22 early-stage companies to date, focusing on deep tech and life sciences spinouts from universities in the Baltics and Nordics.
NSI’s founding partners include Jari Strandman, who previously ran Helsinki Innovation Services, the tech transfer arm of the University of Helsinki, for a decade.
Maart Maasik, another partner at NSI, was previously the CEO of UniTartu Ventures, the commercialisation unit of the University of Tartu, for more than three years.
“It is great to start this partnership with Taaleri. NSI has built a strong position as an investor focused on research-driven innovations, and we see significant growth potential in the market. However, the next phase of our strategy requires a stronger platform for fundraising, international growth and scaling our operations.
“Taaleri is the right partner for us, as its strong institutional position, broad investor relationships and experience in growing businesses strongly support our ambitions. The partnership enables us to further strengthen value creation in our existing portfolio and to build larger funds in Europe going forward.”
Jari Strandman
All partners will remain with the fund. The deal is subject to approval by the local regulator, FIN-FSA.
