Leen Kawas, a managing general partner at Propel Bio Partners, invests in life science companies. Kawas looks for companies that can provide immediate benefits to humanity. She is investing in innovative microbiome companies in Persephone Biosciences and Inherent Bio. Persephone Biosciences is developing a pipeline for infant probiotics to create an effective microbiome for babies, while Inherent Bio uses epigenetic signatures to enhance pregnancy outcomes. Kawas evaluates investment opportunities by assessing the management teams and science to determine the probability of success. She seeks to invest in companies that can give back to humanity.
Persephone Biosciences
Leen Kawas is interested in Persephone Biosciences because of its probiotic pipeline that aims to create an effective microbiome for babies. She believes that the company’s approach can immediately impact human life. Kawas emphasizes investing in companies like Persephone Biosciences that can significantly contribute to society.
Inherent Bio
Inherent Bio is a microbiome company researching epigenetic signatures to enhance pregnancy outcomes. Kawas views the company’s method as having the potential to impact human lives significantly, and she is excited about its progress. She assesses opportunities by considering the potential impact on human life, the probability of success, and the quality of the management team.
Advice to Entrepreneurs
Leen Kawas advocates perseverance for all entrepreneurs. She shares her story of persevering through numerous difficulties as an immigrant to the US. Kawas encourages entrepreneurs to define their “why” and keep going even when encountering challenges. Kawas believes that “no” is never a “no” and encourages entrepreneurs to keep moving forward to achieve their goals.
Conclusion
Leen Kawas invests in companies that provide immediate benefits to humanity. She evaluates investment opportunities by assessing the management teams and science for the probability of success. Persephone Biosciences and Inherent Bio are companies that have captured her attention. Kawas advises entrepreneurs to persevere and define their “why” to achieve their goals. She emphasizes investing in companies that can significantly contribute to society.