RQ Bio Raises $115M for Influenza Antibody Therapies

In a significant development for infectious disease prevention, UK-based biotechnology firm RQ Bio has successfully closed an oversubscribed $115 million Series A financing round. This substantial capital infusion is earmarked to propel the clinical advancement of its novel antibody therapies designed to offer season-long protection against influenza, particularly for vulnerable populations. The round saw robust participation from a syndicate of leading life sciences investors, underscoring strong confidence in RQ Bio's innovative approach.

The financing was spearheaded by Frazier Life Sciences, with significant contributions from new backers including EQT Life Sciences, Forbion, Monograph, and Wellington Management. These new investors join existing supporters LifeArc, Oxford Science Enterprises, and Oxford University Innovation, creating a formidable investor base committed to advancing RQ Bio's mission. The substantial funding will be instrumental in moving RQ Bio's lead program, RQB01, into clinical trials and further developing its pipeline targeting other significant infectious diseases.

RQ Bio's core innovation lies in its development of long-acting monoclonal antibodies aimed at providing durable, season-long prophylaxis against influenza with a single administration. This strategy directly addresses a critical unmet need for individuals with compromised immune systems or those who do not achieve adequate protection from conventional vaccines. The company, founded in 2021 by a team of distinguished infectious disease scientists, is focused on delivering a preventative solution that offers reliable, powerful protection.

The Series A funding will not only support the progression of RQB01 but also bolster RQ Bio's proprietary antibody discovery platform. This platform is designed to generate a broader portfolio of assets for the prophylaxis of respiratory viral diseases, a sector experiencing heightened focus following recent global health events. The global influenza market, while mature, continues to present opportunities for disruptive technologies that can enhance patient outcomes and reduce the significant public health and economic burden associated with seasonal outbreaks.

As part of this strategic financing, Christian S. Schade has been appointed as the new Executive Chairman of RQ Bio. Mr. Schade brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles, including serving as President and CEO of Halda Therapeutics, which was acquired by Johnson & Johnson for $3.0 billion in December 2025. His leadership is expected to be pivotal in guiding RQ Bio's corporate strategy and operational scaling as it moves towards clinical validation and commercialization.

EQT Life Sciences, a prominent investor in the round, highlighted the clear unmet need that RQ Bio's single-administration approach addresses. Felice Verduyn-van Weegen, Partner at EQT Life Sciences, commented on the company's potential to make a significant difference for high-risk patient groups. Similarly, Mike Westby, CEO of RQ Bio, expressed enthusiasm for the capital raised, emphasizing its role in advancing RQB01 and expanding the company's pipeline of preventative therapies for respiratory viral diseases.