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RiverVest

HQ · Missouri

RiverVest Venture Partners is a leading venture capital firm specializing in building life science companies that address significant unmet medical needs. Founded in 2000 and headquartered in St. Louis with offices in San Diego and Cleveland, RiverVest invests primarily in biopharma and medical devices, focusing on products with clear paths to clinical approval and early demonstration of safety and efficacy. The firm leads financings, founds companies, and builds strong investor syndicates, emphasizing risk management and high return potential. RiverVest has raised eight funds, made 61 investments, and achieved 41 exits, with 30 commercial products currently treating patients. Their unique innovation network and collaborative approach support entrepreneurs and deliver strong results to investors.

Lead / follow
Mostly Lead
B2B / B2C
B2B
Investment focus
Life Sciences
Investment style

Specialist

Data last enriched

Aug 14, 2026


Investing team
  • Jay W. SchmelterCo-Founder & Managing Director
  • Niall O'DonnellManaging Director
  • Tom MelzerCo-Founder & Managing Director
  • Karen SpilizewskiManaging Director
  • Isaac ZikeManaging Director
  • Pascal KroteePrincipal
  • Nafise MasoumiPrincipal
  • Michael BermanVenture Partner
  • Andrew KleiboekerAssociate
How to reach them

info@rivervest.com


RiverVest — early-stage investor profile | findfunding.vc