Novocuff secures $26m in Series A funding to combat preterm births

Novocuff, Inc., has successfully closed an oversubscribed $26 million Series A funding round to advance their mission of improving pregnancy outcomes and reducing the incidence of preterm births. This significant financial milestone follows an initial seed round of $2 million. AXA IM Alts, a leader in global healthcare investments, spearheaded the funding with a substantial $14 million contribution. The round also saw robust participation from Laerdal Million Lives Fund and continued support from existing stakeholders such as Laborie, RH Capital, Avestria Ventures, and March of Dimes, alongside new investors.

The influx of funds will bolster Novocuff’s growth trajectory, enabling expansion of its team, execution of a multi-center U.S. pivotal clinical trial, and steps toward marketing authorization and early-stage commercialization. Curt LaBelle, Lilly deSouza Burr, and Becca Shmukler have joined Novocuff’s Board of Directors in conjunction with the funding round, strengthening the company’s governance as it enters this critical phase.

Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes (PPROM) and cervical shortening are two leading causes of preterm birth, impacting millions worldwide annually. Novocuff’s innovative medical device focuses on stabilizing and closing the cervix to retain amniotic fluid and maintain cervical length, aiming to extend pregnancy duration and improve outcomes.

Curt LaBelle of AXA IM Alts highlighted the dire global health challenge of preterm births, noting the significant economic and personal toll they exact. “Our investment is aimed at enabling Novocuff to complete their pivotal U.S. trial and introduce their potentially transformative device to global markets, including underserved regions,” said LaBelle.

Amy Degenkolb, CEO and Co-founder of Novocuff, expressed gratitude for the investor support, stating, “This funding catalyzes our ability to deliver a solution to a significant healthcare need for women, their families, and healthcare providers.”

Becca Shmukler of the Laerdal Million Lives Fund also commented on the partnership’s potential, praising Novocuff’s innovative approach and commitment to addressing a critical market gap.

Eric Schaefer from March of Dimes underscored the importance of preventing preterm births, highlighting how Novocuff’s device aligns with their mission to mitigate pregnancy complications leading to premature births.

As Novocuff gears up for their upcoming U.S. pivotal clinical trial in early 2025, the healthcare community watches closely, hopeful for a device that could dramatically alter the landscape of maternal health. Interested clinical sites are encouraged to reach out to Novocuff for more information, contributing to a mission that could save lives and improve the quality of maternal and infant health globally.