For Immediate Release SALIX VENTURES LEADS IN $7 MILLION FINANCING ROUND FOR AETHON, INC. June 18, 2004 - PITTSBURGH-Robotics manufacturer Aethon, Inc. announced the close of a $7.0 million dollar financing round led by a $2.0 million investment by Salix Ventures of Nashville, TN. Two other new Aethon investors, Ascension Health Ventures and Pacific Venture Group, also provided major funding in the round. Previous investor, Draper Triangle Ventures, invested for a second time. "Aethon has a unique product, which has been enthusiastically received by hospitals," says David Ward, General Partner of Salix Ventures. "With their experienced management team leading the way, we expect Aethon to have a significant impact on the way hospitals move and deliver goods throughout their facilities" "In today's market, fewer startup companies are receiving venture capital financing," says Sean McDonald, Chairman of Aethon, "so this investment in Aethon is a testament to this young company's promising future." Aethon's CEO, Aldo Zini, commented "We're proud to have received this investment from these leading national healthcare investors. Their involvement in the growth of Aethon is as important as their investment." The Aethon Tug is the first robotic delivery system for hospitals to economically and reliably move supplies and equipment, freeing valuable hospital staff from running errands and pushing supply carts. A typical 300-bed hospital spends about $3 million per year for staff to haul materials and supplies from one part of the hospital to another. The Tug can help hospitals reduce these costs while freeing caregivers to do their real jobs. About Salix Ventures Salix Ventures manages two venture capital partnerships with approximately $180 million in capital commitments from limited partners. Salix invests primarily in early-stage healthcare services and healthcare information technology companies. With offices in Andover, Nashville and San Francisco, Salix Ventures assists companies across the country through all stages of development. Return to News & Events | Return Home