Bridgewest Venture Fund I Secures NZ$55.3M First Close
Auckland, New Zealand
Bridgewest Ventures Fund I LP has successfully completed its first close, securing NZ$55.3 million in commitments from more than 20 separate investors, including institutional investors, family offices, high-net-worth individuals and migrant investors.
The majority of first-close investors are New Zealand-based, reflecting strong domestic support for the Fund’s strategy and portfolio. The Fund will now expand its capital raising internationally, connecting offshore capital with high-impact New Zealand companies.
Bridgewest Ventures has committed NZ$5.5 million into the Fund as a limited partner on identical terms to other investors, and will increase its commitment to commensurately as the Fund grows, reinforcing strong alignment with investors.
The Fund is targeting a total capital raise of NZ$100 million, with structural capacity to deploy up to NZ$200 million as opportunities warrant. The capital raise will remain open through Q4 2026.
Bridgewest Ventures invests in high-growth New Zealand companies operating in life sciences, medical technology, advanced materials, clean technology, artificial intelligence and other deep-technology sectors with global market potential.
Bridgewest Group has a 25-year history of creating and investing in new ventures and is active across seven countries worldwide. New Zealand serves as the firm’s centre for venture capital activity. A broad international network of operating companies provides portfolio businesses with access to sector expertise, strategic partnerships, commercial infrastructure and global market connections.
“We are very pleased with the strength and diversity of support, surpassing our target for first close,” said Saum Vahdat, Chief Executive Officer of Bridgewest Ventures.
“New Zealand produces world-class innovation, particularly in deep technology and life sciences. By expanding our raise offshore, we are building a bridge between international capital and high-impact New Zealand companies. Our operating capabilities and network across seven countries enable us to do more than provide capital — we provide strategic connectivity that helps companies scale globally.”
By attracting offshore capital into New Zealand’s innovation ecosystem, Bridgewest Ventures aims to support high-value job creation, strengthen export growth and enhance the global competitiveness of locally developed intellectual property.
Further information is available at: bridgewest.ventures/fund
About us
Bridgewest Ventures is the venture capital platform of Bridgewest Group, focused on building globally competitive companies originating from New Zealand and international research ecosystems. With 25 years of venture creation and investment experience, and operations across seven countries, Bridgewest Group combines capital, operational capability and global networks to accelerate commercial success.
Media & Investor Enquiries:
Saum Vahdat
Chief Executive Officer
Bridgewest Ventures
Paul Brownsey
General Partner
Bridgewest Ventures