BioSapien Secures $7 Million Funding to Revolutionize Cancer Treatment

UAE-based healthtech company BioSapien has successfully extended its pre-Series A funding round to $7 million, with new investments led by Golden Gate Ventures, marking the first deployment of the firm’s MENA Fund. This milestone follows the $5.5 million raised in December 2024, a round led by Global Ventures, with participation from Dara Holdings.

Founded in 2018 by Khatija Ali, BioSapien focuses on innovative solutions in oncology, particularly through its flagship product, MediChip™, a 3D-printed drug delivery platform. Designed for localized drug administration, MediChip™ attaches directly to tissues, delivering slow-release treatments while minimizing systemic side effects. This cutting-edge technology aims to enhance patient outcomes, aligning with UAE’s healthcare innovation goals.

The new funding will accelerate BioSapien’s efforts to scale its operations and prepare for clinical trials of MediChip™ in Abu Dhabi, expected to begin in Q2 2025. Commenting on the investment, Khatija Ali, CEO and founder of BioSapien, expressed gratitude for the support received from investors at a pivotal time for the company. She stated, “The expertise and belief in our vision from our investors come at a critical juncture as we initiate clinical trials in Abu Dhabi. Together, we are working towards a future where localized cancer treatment becomes the global standard.”

Golden Gate Ventures MENA Partner Michael Lints, reflecting on their decision to invest, said, “Having met CEO and Founder Khatija at Hub71 in Abu Dhabi, we were instantly impressed by her passion and vision. Investing in BioSapien aligns with our commitment to supporting transformative technologies that address significant global challenges.”

BioSapien’s focus on addressing rising cancer rates through advanced technologies has made its platform particularly relevant. MediChip™ provides a significant advantage by delivering drugs directly to tumors, reducing the volume of medication required and limiting harmful side effects commonly associated with systemic chemotherapy. Initially, clinical trials will target colorectal cancer patients, with plans to expand to other cancer types such as pancreatic and lung cancers, as well as non-cancer applications, including opioids, hormones, biologics, and cell and gene therapies.

This funding underscores the growing importance of UAE’s role in fostering healthcare innovation, as the country continues to position itself as a global hub for advanced medical solutions. BioSapien’s partnership with local stakeholders in Abu Dhabi aims to support the region’s healthcare ecosystem and contribute to global advancements in cancer treatment.

With its ambitious goal of treating over one million patients by 2035, BioSapien remains focused on the development and scalability of its versatile drug delivery platform, demonstrating the potential of targeted, localized treatments in addressing global healthcare challenges.