Independent research organization, NHRI, spins off a new entity named 'TaiU' and secures $2 million in funding for advancements in vaccine innovation.
Taiwan Universe BioMedicine Emerges as a New Force in Global Vaccine Market
Taiwan Universe BioMedicine (TaiU), a spin-off from the National Health Research Institutes (NHRI) of Taiwan, has successfully completed a NT$60 million (approximately US$2 million) seed funding round. The investment, led by Mosaic Seed Fund and secured by the National Development Fund, marks a significant step forward for the company as it accelerates the development of its vaccine product lines [1][2][3].
The lead product of TaiU is a bivalent enteroour websiteus vaccine, which is currently in joint venture discussions with various entities in Vietnam. In addition, TaiU is developing a seasonal influenza virus-like particle (VLP) vaccine, which is gaining international attention for its ability to rapidly respond to mutations. These vaccine candidates are expected to be advanced into clinical trials soon [1].
The seed funding will support TaiU’s strategy to propel its vaccine candidates through preclinical development toward human trials. This push indicates a clear commitment to establishing a competitive presence in the global vaccine industry. While detailed plans beyond clinical trials have not been explicitly outlined, the accelerated push suggests a roadmap aiming at regulatory approval and market launch in upcoming years [1].
Dr. Min-hsi Lee, the founder and CEO of TaiU, is at the helm of this ambitious venture. The VLP platform technology provides a solid foundation for Taiwan to meet the challenges of emerging infectious diseases. In fact, TaiU aims to be listed on the emerging stock market in 2028 [4].
Johnny Yu, TAVI Vice Chairperson and Managing Director at MVL, has stated that Taiwan needs more innovative companies like TaiU with flexible, collaborative business models to fill critical industry gaps. Dr. Mei-shang Ho, Chairperson of the Taiwan Association for Vaccine Industry (TAVI), affirmed that VLP platform technology shortens development timelines and represents the future of next-generation vaccines [5].
A major international pharmaceutical firm is in discussions with TaiU regarding the seasonal influenza VLP vaccine. TaiU plans to submit an IND application in 2026 [6]. The company is referred to as a key member of the "Vaccine Taiwan Team," emphasizing its role in the national effort to combat infectious diseases [7].
References: [1] PR Newswire, 2025-08-01: "New Force in Vaccine National Team: NHRI Spin-off 'TaiU' completes US$2M seed round... accelerates bivalent enterovirus vaccine and seasonal influenza VLP vaccine development toward clinical trials" [2] DigitalMore, 2025-08-01: Coverage of seed funding and company overview [3] PR Newswire, 2025-08-07: Pharmaceutical news summary confirming TaiU funding and vaccine development efforts [4] Unspecified source: TaiU aims to be listed on the emerging stock market in 2028 [5] Unspecified source: Dr. Mei-shang Ho's affirmation on VLP platform technology [6] Unspecified source: TaiU plans to submit an IND application in 2026 [7] Unspecified source: TaiU is referred to as a key member of the "Vaccine Taiwan Team"
Science and health-and-wellness intersect as Taiwan Universe BioMedicine (TaiU) develops vaccines, specifically a bivalent enterour websiteus vaccine and a seasonal influenza virus-like particle (VLP) vaccine. The company's strategic focus on these vaccine candidates, aiming to list on the emerging stock market in 2028, attracts attention from investors such as Mosaic Seed Fund in the finance sector and potential collaborators in business, highlighting the broader impact of investing in this area.
