MBI Success Story: Alpha-Beta

MBI has seen many success stories throughout its 40-year history, with each one reflecting the impact of its incubation programs and resources for early-stage companies. In this “40 for 40” story, we highlight the remarkable journey of MBI graduate, Alpha-Beta. With a mission to develop innovative healthcare solutions, Alpha-Beta became the first investment of Commonwealth Bioventures Inc (CBI), the Venture arm of the Massachusetts Biomedical Research Institute (now known as MBI) in 1988, and second tenant in the MBI incubator at the Massachusetts Biotechnology Research Park.  Alpha-Beta leased space from MBI for several years in One Biotech Park and Two Biotech Park before becoming an official MBI graduate and leasing its own space at Three Biotech Park. Alpha-Beta was the second MBI-incubated company to complete an IPO in 1992. The company reached a peak headcount of 220 employees and peak market capitalization of $350 million, before being sold in 1999. Products developed by Alpha-Beta are now marketed as Wellmune by Kerry, a global health and nutrition company. Wellmune products are now marketed worldwide, contributing to immune health across diverse populations. The success of Alpha-Beta exemplifies the long-lasting impact of MBI’s support on a company’s journey from startup to global player in the life sciences industry.