Sopartec is involved in the creation of spin-off companies whose main activity is based upon technology developed at the University which remains the property of the latter. Since 2000, Sopartec has provided start-up assistance for an average of 3 spin-off companies a year.  

Through its knowledge of the University's intellectual property portfolio, Sopartec is well-placed to identify the technological platforms that are likely to develop into new commercial activities. Sopartec provides the support and assistance that researchers and future entrepreneurs need throughout the process leading up to the creation of the spin-off company, from preparing its commercial strategy to writing a business plan.

Sopartec acts as the lead partner of the investors in the first financing stage (incorporation of the company), checks the business plan prepared by the entrepreneurs, negotiates the technology licence agreement with the University and establishes shareholder agreements. Afterwards, Sopartec organises a second round of financing when the spin-off company has proved to be commercially viable. 

Sopartec set up the Vives Fund in December 2003 in cooperation with several institutional partners. The Fund's mission is to invest in new technology companies that use research results from UCL spin-off enterprises or companies willing to make special partnership arrangements with UCL.

The VIVES Fund was incorporated as a limited company with capital of 15 million Euro by Sopartec SA (13%), the  European Investment Fund- EIF (30%), Fortis Private Equity (17%), KBC Private Equity (17%), Start Up (Nivelinvest - 13%) and Rebelco (Sofina - 10%).

For further information please visit the internet site, VIVES.

On 30 June 2009, the  investment portfolio of Sopartec consisted of 22 companies, 4 of which were indirect investments from Vives.