23andMe was privately owned up until 2021 when it merged with a Virgin Groups acquisition company to go public without a traditional IPO. Anne Wojcicki and Richard Branson are the most high-profile stakeholders in the new venture. However, a considerable number of investors have taken ownership stakes in 23andMe in prior funding rounds.
Who founded 23andMe?
Linda Avey, Paul Cusenza and Anne Wojcicki founded 23andMe in 2006 to offer genetic testing and interpretation to individuals. Investment documents from 2007 also suggest that 23andMe hoped to develop a database to pursue research efforts.
Does Richard Branson own 23andMe?
23andMe merged with Richard Branson’s acquisition firm in 2021 and trades publicly on the NASDAQ. The combined company is owned by 23andMe Holding Co. Richard Branson and CEO Anne Wojcicki are major stakeholders. Other investors include Altimeter Capital, Fidelity, and Foresite Capital.
