Momentum Capital today announced the sale of the final ventures from Momentum Technology Fund I (Tech Fund), originating from its participation in Amsterdam-based tech incubator Seaborough. The three ventures, which hold strategic global patents in nanomaterials, life sciences, and lighting, are being brought to market now that their potential has been confirmed through in-depth analyses by consultancy firms Kearney and Yole. ClearviewIP has also been contracted to support the process.
SunLED – Collaboration with Kearney
Since 2018, SunLED Life Science has been conducting groundbreaking research in the field of photobiomodulation. This has resulted in patented and scientifically proven SunLED technology, which, when applied in everyday electronics such as displays, phones, and lamps, delivers the health benefits of sunlight: improved mental health, enhanced physical health and strengthened immune system
SunLED technology enables users to enjoy the health advantages of sunlight indoors. The venture has been granted unique global patents, and the scientific validity of the technology has been independently confirmed.
Kearney has assessed the market potential of SunLED among consumers in the US, Europe, and China and validated interest from business leaders at the world’s largest consumer electronics brands. Their market report exceeds initial expectations, and the next steps in bringing SunLED to market are now underway in collaboration with Kearney.
Nano Materials – Collaboration with Yole
With the potential to reduce LED lighting energy consumption by up to 20%, Seaborough Nano Materials offers a global solution for energy savings through more efficient LEDs. According to the United Nations, nearly 20% of global electricity use and 6% of CO₂ emissions come from lighting. Nanotechnology provides an affordable and scalable solution to achieve significant savings.
Seaborough’s Nano Materials division is a global specialist in this area, with its energy-efficient EuroLED technology offering a unique and patented solution for LED lighting.
This year, a rollout agreement was reached with US-based Current Chemicals. M&A specialist Yole has delivered a market report validating the potential of EuroLED and its patents. The next stage of the sales process will proceed with Yole’s support.
Ultima – Collaboration with ClearviewIP
The Ultima venture markets a patented solution for the efficient replacement of mercury-containing fluorescent tubes, combined with a technology that far surpasses the energy savings promised by leading market products. With its potential confirmed, ClearviewIP—specialists in intellectual property (IP)—has been engaged to bring the patent portfolio to market.
Seaborough’s Journey in Momentum Technology Fund I
Seaborough joined Momentum Technology Fund I in 2016. Eight years later, the fund has developed a robust global patent portfolio, and the three ventures under Seaborough’s umbrella are ready for market entry. Momentum Capital has aligned this next step with the venture teams and certificate holders. Momentum Capital will provide regular updates on the ventures’ progress over the coming period.
Collaborating with Employees to Select New Ownership
Martijn van Rheenen, on behalf of Momentum Capital’s management: “We actively involve the leaders of the ventures in the sales process and place them at the heart of it. This demonstrates that private equity can work differently—collaborating with employees to select a new owner who respects the team and shares the vision to realise the impact of these patents.”
“During our annual meeting on 2 July in Amsterdam, we voted on the execution of the exit strategy for the Seaborough ventures. An overwhelming 93% of certificate holders voted in favour of a sale that balances positive long-term prospects for employees with maximising the impact of the patents—even if this requires some concessions on the sale price for investors. This is a fantastic outcome.”
“Of course, financial interests play an important role in any sale. But transitioning ownership can also be challenging for employees. For instance, a company relocation or integration with an industry player could result in job losses. Worse, a buyer might acquire patents merely to neutralise competition, leaving groundbreaking inventions shelved. With the support of our investors, who truly embody impact investing, we can avoid such scenarios.”
About Kearney
Kearney employs over 5,700 people across more than 60 offices. They work with over three-quarters of the Fortune Global 500, as well as influential government and non-profit organisations. Since 19 June, Kearney has been conducting independent market research to evaluate the opportunities for the SunLED venture and develop its licensing and monetisation strategy.
About Yole
Founded in 1998, Yole specialises in market research, technology analysis, strategy development, and financial services. With a focus on innovative applications in silicon and micro-manufacturing, Yole’s global team of 50+ experts supports companies, investors, and R&D organisations in understanding markets and leveraging technology trends for growth. Yole has been involved since 2 May in preparing a market report and licensing strategy for Nano Materials.
About ClearviewIP
Established in 2007, UK-based ClearviewIP is a leading global consultancy specialising in intellectual property (IP). With over 100 successful IP sale and licensing programmes, ClearviewIP supports FTSE100 and Fortune500 companies, SMEs, and academic institutions. They provide expertise in IP strategy, operations, and transactions across various sectors, including telecoms, IT, financial services, life sciences, automotive, and energy. ClearviewIP was engaged this month to oversee the IP sales process for the electronics portfolio.
For more information, visit: seaborough.com and sunled.health
