US-based spin-off from NHRI secures $2 million in funding for advancements in vaccine technology under the name 'TaiU'
Taiwan Universe BioMedicine (TaiU), a Taiwanese biotech company, has made significant strides in the vaccine industry following a successful NT$60 million seed funding round led by Mosaic Seed Fund and secured a matching investment from the National Development Fund [1].
The funding will be used for preclinical trials by TaiU, accelerating the development of their two main vaccine candidates. The first candidate is a bivalent enterovirus vaccine, which is currently in joint venture discussions with major partners in Vietnam for distribution, manufacturing, and potential initial regional market entry [1].
The second product line is a seasonal influenza Virus-Like Particle (VLP) vaccine, which is gaining international attention due to its rapid adaptability to viral mutations, a critical advantage for flu vaccines [1]. Talks are underway with a major global pharmaceutical company, indicating promising prospects for broad international collaboration and market penetration [1].
The VLP platform technology offers shorter development timelines and enhanced safety and efficacy, aligning with next-generation vaccine trends to address emerging infectious diseases worldwide [1]. Domestic partnerships with adjuvant biotech firms further enhance the vaccine’s effectiveness and market competitiveness [1].
Professor Peter Chang, a former member of the Control Yuan, endorses TaiU's linkage of the 'R&D National Team' and the 'Industry National Team,' as a crucial step in building a world-class biomedical industry ecosystem in Taiwan [1]. Dr. Mei-shang Ho, Chairperson of the Taiwan Association for Vaccine Industry (TAVI), affirmed that TaiU's VLP platform technology shortens development timelines and represents the future of next-generation vaccines [1].
TaiU plans to submit an IND application in 2026 and aims to be listed on the emerging stock market in 2028 [1]. Johnny Yu, TAVI Vice Chairperson and Managing Director at MVL, emphasizes the need for innovative companies like TaiU with flexible, collaborative business models to fill critical industry gaps in Taiwan [1].
These developments position TaiU to potentially impact the global vaccine market significantly. With its innovative platform and strategic collaborations, both vaccine candidates have the potential to contribute meaningfully to the expanding global vaccine market valued in the hundreds of billions [1].
[1] https://laotiantimes.com/2025/08/01/new-force-in-vaccine-national-team-nhri-spin-off-taiu-completes-us2m-seed-round-led-by-mvl-seed-fund-2/
In addition, domestic MOUs with adjuvant biotech companies are creating synergies for TaiU to target the hundred-billion-dollar global vaccine market. The lead product, the bivalent enterovirus vaccine, is in discussions with Vietnamese pharmacy and vaccination center chains, as well as a CDMO, signaling potential entry into the Vietnamese market.
The funding secured by Taiwan Universe BioMedicine (TaiU) will not only accelerate their vaccine development but also open doors for collaborations with global pharmaceutical companies, aiming to penetrate the hundred-billion-dollar global market. With the bivalent enterovirus vaccine in joint venture discussions with Vietnamese partners, TaiU is strategically positioning itself for potential entry into the Vietnamese market, contributing to the revenue in the health-and-wellness sector, while its innovative VLP platform technology aligns with next-generation vaccine trends in science, promising breakthroughs in medical-conditions and finance.
