BDC Expands Its Innovation Strategy With New Life Sciences Fund
BDC Expands Its Innovation Strategy With New Life Sciences Fund in 2026
Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) is preparing to launch a new Life Sciences Fund in 2026, marking its return to the sector six years after spinning out its previous healthcare vehicle, Amplitude Ventures, into an independent firm.
The organization is currently hiring a managing partner who will shape the fund’s thesis, strategy, and team. Unlike its predecessor, this new fund will target different development stages based on market-gap analysis conducted by third-party experts.
The structure follows a two-part investment model:
Filling gaps not currently covered by other Canadian life sciences funds
Continuing BDC’s ongoing indirect investments as an LP in existing life sciences venture funds
BDC’s Recent Programs Expanding Entrepreneurship and Innovation
➡️ $50M for Women Entrepreneurs Acquiring Businesses:
BDC Capital’s Thrive ETA Fund allocates $50 million to support women entrepreneurs purchasing and operating businesses.
$10M for indirect investments through PE funds backing women-led search funds
$40M for direct equity investments into search funds, management buyouts, and self-funded acquisitions
Includes an accelerator supporting 60+ women pursuing acquisition-based entrepreneurship
➡️ $200M for Tech Advancing Legacy Industries
BDC’s second Industrial Innovation Venture Fund adds $200 million for startups building technologies for advanced manufacturing, AgTech, food tech, critical minerals, and industrial sectors.
Focus on Series A and later
Investment themes include robotics, AI, automation, and industrial software
➡️ $100M to Support Rural Entrepreneurship
BDC has committed $100 million in loans to support rural and remote business owners across Canada.
Delivered through Community Futures and regional partners
Builds on the 2024 Community Banking initiative
Expected to contribute up to $250M in GDP over five years
➡️ $250M for Underserved Entrepreneurs
BDC has designated $250 million to support women, Black, and Indigenous founders through new investment platforms and loan programs.
Includes two new $100M platforms for Black-led and Indigenous-led businesses
Complements the existing $500M Women’s Entrepreneurship platform
An additional $50M supports tailored loan financing, training, and a new internal team dedicated to underserved groups
Together, these commitments reflect BDC’s multi-track strategy across life sciences, industrial innovation, rural development, and inclusive entrepreneurship - strengthening the country’s broader innovation ecosystem.
