Baidu Ventures

Baidu Ventures (BV) is an independent venture capital fund established by Baidu in 2017, with a focus on early-stage technology companies that specialise in artificial intelligence (AI). BV currently manages over $700 million across three funds and has offices in Beijing and San Francisco. The fund is one of the earliest venture capital firms in China to invest deeply in AI-related sectors, including the artificial intelligence industry chain, autonomous driving, life sciences, robotics, and next-generation computing power. BV has invested in over 200 companies globally, with 90% of its investments made before the Series A stage.

The firm’s primary goal is to support the growth of technology-driven startups, and it seeks entrepreneurs who have a strong grasp of technology and an enthusiasm for technological innovation. BV is involved not only as an investor but also as a long-term partner, offering technical support and access to global resources.

Baidu Ventures is recognised for its contribution to the field, having received multiple accolades, such as being named one of the "Most Popular Venture Capital Institutions Among Entrepreneurs" by 36Kr in 2019, 2020, 2022, and 2023. The firm is also listed among the "Top 20 Best Investment Institutions in Artificial Intelligence and Big Data" by the China Venture Capital Research Institute.

BV has supported various star projects, including companies working on autonomous driving, AI, medical technology, robotics, advanced computing, and life sciences. Notable companies include Insilico, Ruilai Wisdom, and Globo Technology, among others. The fund continues to focus on emerging technologies, helping startups innovate and create long-term commercial value in the global market.

Baidu Ventures’ mission is to drive technological progress by partnering with innovators and entrepreneurs in AI and other cutting-edge fields.

Baidu Ventures (BV) was established in 2017 as an independent venture capital fund initiated by Baidu, one of China’s largest internet companies. The creation of BV marked Baidu’s strategic shift towards focusing on investments in technology-driven industries, with an emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI). The firm was designed to support startups in their early stages, providing both financial backing and technical expertise.

From the beginning, BV's investment strategy centred around artificial intelligence, aiming to cover the entire AI industry chain. The fund started with an initial focus on sectors such as autonomous driving, robotics, life sciences, and next-generation computing. This strategic direction allowed BV to become one of the earliest venture capital firms in China to engage deeply in AI investment.

By 2019, BV had invested in over 100 companies, primarily focusing on startups that were in the pre-Series A stage. Around 90% of their investments were made before Series A funding rounds, demonstrating a commitment to early-stage technology innovation. During this period, BV expanded its investment portfolio to include companies in fields such as medical technology and advanced computing, reflecting its diverse interest in emerging technologies. Notable investments included companies like Insilico, Ruilai Wisdom, and Globo Technology, which were involved in areas such as AI-driven medical research and robotics.

Baidu Ventures also began to receive industry recognition during this time. In 2019, BV was named one of the "Top 50 Most Popular Investment Institutions for Entrepreneurs" by 36Kr, a leading Chinese media platform focused on startups and technology. The firm continued to receive accolades in subsequent years, being recognised by 36Kr as one of the "Most Popular Venture Capital Institutions Among Entrepreneurs" in 2020, 2022, and 2023. Additionally, BV was listed among the "Top 20 Best Investment Institutions in Artificial Intelligence and Big Data" by the China Venture Capital Research Institute in 2019, 2021, and 2022.

By 2020, BV’s assets under management had grown to over $700 million, spread across three different funds. The firm’s headquarters are in Beijing, with an additional office in San Francisco to manage its global investments. This international presence allowed BV to diversify its portfolio further and tap into emerging technology markets outside China.

BV’s investment philosophy revolves around long-term partnerships. It positions itself not just as a financial investor but also as a strategic partner, offering technical support and access to Baidu’s global resources. This approach helped BV establish strong relationships with entrepreneurs and companies working in sectors like autonomous driving, next-generation computing power, and life sciences.

In 2023, BV’s commitment to AI was further demonstrated by its ongoing investment in key projects and startups that focus on areas like polymer medical materials, as well as other medical and life sciences ventures. BV continued to support its portfolio companies through multiple rounds of financing and helped them scale their operations.

As of 2024, Baidu Ventures has invested in more than 200 companies globally and continues to explore opportunities in emerging industries. BV remains focused on supporting entrepreneurs who are dedicated to technological innovation, particularly in AI-related fields. The firm’s goal is to help these startups grow from early-stage ventures into successful, sustainable businesses while contributing to technological advancements in AI, robotics, and life sciences.

BV’s mission, as of today, is to keep exploring and supporting innovation in AI and other advanced technologies, helping entrepreneurs create long-term commercial value through technology.

Baidu Ventures (BV) follows investment criteria that align with its focus on early-stage technology companies, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI) and related fields. Here are the key elements of its investment criteria:

Focus on Early-Stage Companies
BV primarily invests in companies that are in their early stages of development. About 90% of its investments are made before the Series A funding round, showing a strong emphasis on supporting startups from their inception.

Technological Innovation
The core focus of BV’s investment is on companies that are driving technological innovation. These include startups specialising in artificial intelligence, autonomous driving, life sciences, robotics, and next-generation computing power. BV looks for companies that are advancing technology in meaningful and impactful ways.

Artificial Intelligence Industry Chain
BV is particularly interested in companies that are part of the broader AI industry chain. This includes not just AI technology itself but also businesses that support AI, such as hardware, software, and infrastructure that enable AI to flourish.

Autonomous Driving
One of BV's key investment areas is autonomous driving. BV seeks out companies that are pushing the boundaries of self-driving technology, which has applications in transport, logistics, and beyond.

Life Sciences and Medical Technology
BV invests in companies that are innovating in the life sciences sector, particularly those using AI to advance medical research, biotechnology, and healthcare solutions. The firm has supported projects that explore medical materials and AI-driven healthcare platforms.

Robotics
BV places a strong focus on robotics and its various applications, from industrial robotics to healthcare and consumer robotics. It seeks out companies developing next-generation robots that can improve industries and everyday life.

Next-Generation Computing Power
Investments are also directed towards startups working on next-generation computing technologies, which are essential for supporting AI applications and other complex technological advancements.

Long-Term Partnerships
BV views itself not just as an investor but as a long-term partner to the companies it supports. It offers more than just financial investment, providing technical expertise and access to Baidu’s global resources to help startups scale and succeed.

Emerging Technology Focus
BV is always on the lookout for opportunities in emerging industries. This includes fields that are not yet fully developed but have the potential for significant growth, such as AI-driven innovations, advanced computing solutions, and cutting-edge medical technologies.

Global and Diverse Portfolio
While BV is based in Beijing and San Francisco, its investment portfolio spans globally. The fund actively seeks out startups around the world that are leading the way in AI and technological innovation, contributing to a diverse and international portfolio.

Baidu Ventures (BV) provides significant value to the companies it invests in, going beyond just financial support. Here are the key aspects of the value BV offers:

• Financial Investment: BV provides critical early-stage funding to startups, helping them grow from the very beginning. It supports companies primarily before Series A funding rounds, ensuring they have the resources needed to develop their products and scale their operations.
  
  Technical Expertise: BV offers access to advanced technical knowledge, particularly in artificial intelligence, robotics, and next-generation computing power. Startups benefit from Baidu’s expertise, enabling them to solve complex technical challenges and improve their products.
• Global Resources: BV provides startups with access to Baidu’s global network of partners, resources, and markets. This support helps companies expand internationally and access opportunities they may not reach independently.
• Strategic Partnership: BV positions itself as a long-term partner for the startups it invests in, providing ongoing strategic guidance. This partnership ensures that startups receive continuous support, helping them navigate challenges and seize growth opportunities.
• Industry Expertise: BV brings deep knowledge of sectors such as artificial intelligence, autonomous driving, life sciences, and advanced computing. Startups benefit from this industry-specific insight, enabling them to make better decisions and position themselves for future success.
• Reputation and Recognition: Startups backed by BV gain credibility due to the fund’s industry reputation and recognition. BV’s track record and accolades, such as multiple awards for excellence in AI and venture capital, provide startups with added prestige and can attract further investment.

Baidu Ventures' mission is to support early-stage companies driving innovation in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. BV aims to help entrepreneurs build groundbreaking solutions in fields such as AI, robotics, life sciences, autonomous driving, and next-generation computing. The firm is committed to providing more than just financial investment by offering technical expertise, access to global resources, and long-term strategic partnerships. BV's goal is to foster technological advancements that create long-term commercial value, helping startups grow and make a meaningful impact on the future of technology.

Baidu Ventures (BV) has built a diverse and innovative portfolio that focuses on early-stage companies in sectors such as artificial intelligence, robotics, life sciences, and next-generation computing. The companies in BV's portfolio represent cutting-edge advancements across various industries, shaping the future of technology and driving global innovation.

• Insilico Medicine: A leading AI-driven drug discovery company that uses machine learning to accelerate the process of finding new medicines, with a focus on age-related diseases.
• Ruilai Wisdom: Specialises in AI-powered healthcare solutions, providing smart medical tools to improve diagnostics and healthcare services.
• Globo Technology: Focuses on AI and robotics applications, developing advanced robotics systems for use in various industries, including manufacturing and healthcare.
• Bo Rui Kang: A biotechnology company that combines AI and life sciences to innovate new solutions for medical treatments and diagnostics.
• Aqiu Technology: A company at the forefront of autonomous driving technology, working on AI solutions that enhance the safety and efficiency of self-driving vehicles.
• Geometry Partners: Specialises in advanced computing and AI applications, offering innovative solutions for big data processing and next-generation computing power.
• Xidi Intelligent Driving: Develops AI-powered autonomous driving systems aimed at improving the safety and reliability of self-driving cars.
• Xizhi Technology: A robotics company focusing on the development of intelligent robots for industrial and consumer applications.
• Gencun Technology: Pioneers in the field of AI-driven data storage solutions, integrating cutting-edge technology with next-generation computing power.
• Digital Force Field: Focuses on AI and cybersecurity, providing advanced protection systems for digital infrastructures and data security.
• Shiyun Technology: Develops innovative AI solutions for various industries, including robotics, healthcare, and autonomous driving.
• West Lake Heart: A medical technology company using AI to develop new treatments and diagnostic tools for cardiovascular diseases.
• Qi Carbon Technology: Innovates in the field of energy and materials, focusing on AI-driven advancements in carbon technology for industrial applications.
• New Vision Intelligence: Specialises in AI-powered visual recognition systems, providing advanced solutions for industries like security and retail.
• Jianjia Robot: A leading robotics company that develops intelligent robots for healthcare, manufacturing, and consumer markets.
• Cloud Innovation Smart Travel: Focuses on smart mobility solutions, using AI to improve transportation systems and enhance travel experiences.
• Zhiran Medical: A biotechnology company that integrates AI into medical research, focusing on developing treatments for critical health conditions.
• Know Optical Chip: Specialises in AI-driven optical chip technology, advancing the capabilities of next-generation computing hardware.
• Jinfang Pharmaceutical: A pharmaceutical company leveraging AI to discover and develop new drugs, focusing on improving the efficiency of the drug development process.
• Sherlock: Develops AI-based tools for advanced diagnostics, particularly in the field of medical imaging and disease detection.
• Deep Technology: Focuses on AI and deep learning technologies, providing solutions for industries such as finance, healthcare, and autonomous driving.
• Zhiyuan: Specialises in AI applications in the financial industry, helping companies optimise their operations with advanced algorithms and machine learning.
• Sprout Gene: A biotechnology company that combines AI with genetic research to discover new treatments for various diseases.
• Molecular Heart: Uses AI to research and develop new solutions for cardiovascular diseases, offering innovative treatment methods based on advanced technology.
• Enze Kangtai: Focuses on AI-driven advancements in medical technology, with a particular emphasis on treatments for chronic diseases.
• Nine Consciousness Intelligence: Develops AI systems that integrate human cognition with machine learning to create smarter, more adaptive technology solutions.