Meta description: SEED Therapeutics closes $30M Series A-3 funding, gains FDA clearance for lead program, and targets clinical trials in early 2026.
SEED Therapeutics has completed a $30 million Series A-3 funding round and obtained FDA clearance for its lead drug candidate, signaling a move into the clinical stage. Investors, founders, and biotech partners will find the financial details important for understanding the company’s growth trajectory.
How was the $30M round structured?
The Series A-3 round totaled $30 million, split into two closings. The first closing brought $24 million in August 2024. A second closing added $6 million in August 2025. This staged funding approach indicates steady investor confidence over time. By securing capital in two phases, SEED Therapeutics reduced fundraising risk and maintained operational continuity.
Alongside equity financing, the company has generated close to $60 million from partnerships through both upfront payments and milestones. These funds came from collaborations with global pharmaceutical firms Eli Lilly and Eisai, offering diversified revenue streams prior to commercialization.
Who invested and what does it mean for partnerships?
While specific investor names from the $30 million raised were not disclosed, the presence of partnerships with Eli Lilly and Eisai shows strategic alignment with leading industry players. Such partnerships often add validation to scientific platforms and signal long-term value potential. In SEED’s case, the financial contributions from partners are significant enough to fund multiple stages of R&D.
Partnership-backed funding also supports credibility when entering clinical trials. It can reduce reliance on venture capital alone and help bridge the gap to potential licensing or co-development agreements down the line.
What does this mean for growth and pipeline development?
This funding and partnership capital allow SEED Therapeutics to begin first-in-human trials for its lead asset ST-01156 in Q1 2026. ST-01156 targets RBM39-dependent cancers, including Ewing sarcoma. Moving into clinical trials will be a pivotal stage for validation of its proprietary RITE3 platform, which is designed to create targeted protein degraders.
The company’s pipeline already spans nine programs across oncology, neurodegeneration, immunology, and virology. Adequate funding means SEED can pursue parallel developments without slowing progress on its primary candidate. Capital efficiency here will matter as trial results start emerging.
FAQ
1. What stage is SEED Therapeutics at now?
It has moved from preclinical to clinical stage after FDA clearance for its lead program.
2. How much total funding has the company brought in?
Beyond the $30 million Series A-3, SEED has secured close to $60 million from partnerships.
3. Why are partnerships with Eli Lilly and Eisai important?
They provide financial support, scientific validation, and potential future commercial pathways.
4. When will clinical trials start?
First-in-human trials for ST-01156 are expected in Q1 2026.
Key takeaways
SEED Therapeutics combines venture funding with substantial partner capital to fuel its transition to clinical development. For founders, the phased fundraising structure and diversified funding mix showcase ways to maintain cash flow while working toward value inflection points. For investors, the combination of equity rounds and milestone payments reduces risk exposure.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Readers should conduct their own due diligence before making investment decisions.