With a Founder’s Pledge, young entrepreneurs make a nonbinding promise to the ETH Foundation to engage in philanthropic activities that support future generations at their alma mater. ETH alumnus Mattias Ivarsson explains why he, too, is committed to fostering a sustainable startup ecosystem.

In 2021, your spin-off Inositec was acquired by Vifor Pharma – what are you up to today?

After taking a break, I’m now the CEO of Salvina Therapeutics, a new company I founded last year with other researchers that develops new medications for inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. I’m also involved with BiomedVC, a venture capital fund specialised in early-stage investments in the life sciences sector.

Do you occasionally come into contact with students at ETH with entrepreneurial ambitions?

Yes, I regularly give presentations to them. It’s great to see that interest in entrepreneurship is growing. I enjoy sharing my own experiences and try to convey that being an entrepreneur isn’t always as glamorous as the media makes out. It can often be complicated and challenging – yet still worthwhile.

After your spin-off was acquired, you made generous donations to both the Excellence Scholarship programme and the Pioneer Fellowship programme. Why was this?

I drew personal benefit from both programmes and want to help ensure their continuation. For me, the Excellence Scholarship was a key reason for coming to ETH. And what I particularly appreciated about the Pioneer Fellowship is the way that it bridges the gap between finishing a doctorate and starting a venture or securing funding.

The point of the Founder’s Pledge is to create a connected community of entrepreneurs. Why is this important?

Out of principle! Building a successful company needs a lot of support. It’s important not to forget those who helped you along the way – and if the opportunity arises, to give something back one day.