Zymeworks signs global license with Roche for ZW209, receiving $55 M upfront and up to $718 M in milestones

Zymeworks Inc. entered a worldwide licensing and collaboration agreement with Roche for the trispecific T‑cell engager ZW209. Roche will pay $55 million up front, a $40 million payment when the Phase 1b trial starts, and could deliver up to $718 million in development, commercial and sales‑based milestones, plus tiered royalties on future sales. Roche will fund the Phase 1a study and assume responsibility for all later development and commercialization. The deal must clear the Hart‑Scott‑Rodino antitrust waiting period and other customary closing conditions.

The upfront cash provides non‑dilutive funding for Zymeworks, while the milestone structure offers significant upside if ZW209 advances, potentially boosting the company’s revenue stream. Roche’s involvement reduces Zymeworks’ development risk and may accelerate the drug’s path to market.

  • 1Zymeworks will receive an upfront payment of $55 million from Roche.
  • 2A $40 million payment is payable when the Phase 1b trial of ZW209 begins.
  • 3Milestone payments could total up to $718 million for development, commercial and sales achievements.
  • 4Zymeworks will earn tiered high‑single‑digit to mid‑teen royalties on global net sales of any approved medicines from the collaboration.
  • 5Roche will fund the Phase 1a monotherapy trial and will have exclusive rights to develop and commercialize ZW209 worldwide.
  • 6The agreement requires clearance of the Hart‑Scott‑Rodino antitrust waiting period and satisfaction of other customary closing conditions.

Sources