Optibrium secures growth private equity investment from Kester Capital to advance drug discovery software
Kester Capital has backed Cambridge-based Optibrium to drive commercial expansion and product development.
Optibrium develops software for drug discovery and small molecule design. Its platform empowers research teams with predictive modelling and artificial intelligence tools.
Optibrium has secured private equity backing from Kester Capital to fund its ongoing expansion and product development. The investment will support both organic growth initiatives and targeted acquisitions within the drug discovery sector.
Founded in Cambridge, the company offers specialist platforms including StarDrop and Cerella to streamline small molecule optimisation and artificial intelligence analysis. Its technology is currently deployed by more than 150 organisations worldwide.
Kester Capital targets UK mid-market businesses requiring capital for growth, with typical deal sizes ranging between £10m and £20m. The transaction marks the investor's third venture in the life sciences sector.
From the founder
"We are delighted to have Kester Capital on board as an investment partner to continue the successful evolution of the business. Kester has extensive experience in the life sciences sector, and we are looking forward to working with them to capitalise on the substantial market opportunities."

Matt Segall
CEO at Optibrium
Investor perspective
"Optibrium is a cutting edge software business that is driving some of the most exciting developments within computer-aided drug discovery. We had been tracking the business for some time and were really impressed by the team and the business’ achievements. We are looking forward to working with Matt and Ed to grow the business."

Adam Maidment
Managing Partner, Kester Capital
Use of funds
- 01Continue product development
- 02Fund acquisitions
- 03Fund the next phase of growth