A team of former BioMarin executives launched Mendra and closed an $82 million Series A to acquire, develop and commercialize therapies for rare diseases. Mendra will use AI to prioritize asset selection, speed patient identification, and run global development programs. The financing was co‑led by OrbiMed, 8VC and 5AM Ventures, with Lux Capital and Wing VC also participating. Company leadership framed the strategy as an acquisition‑first model: buy underdeveloped or shelved assets from academia or larger firms, then re‑advance them with focused development and commercialization resources. The team highlighted previous BioMarin operational experience as a core competency for accelerating regulatory paths and market access. Why it matters: consolidation‑style rare‑disease platforms backed by experienced executives and AI tools can shorten timelines for underserved indications. Expect M&A activity and strategic deals aimed at in‑licensing preclinical or stalled clinical assets.