In Loving Memory of Dr. George Heinrich, M.D.
Respected Leader, Visionary, and Beloved Member of the Bedford Community
June 19, 2025

The town of Bedford, New Jersey, along with the wider communities of medicine, research, and venture capital, is mourning the profound loss of Dr. George Heinrich, M.D., who passed away peacefully at his home on June 19, 2025. Dr. Heinrich, Vice Chair and CEO of Foundation Venture Capital Group (FVCG), was a trailblazer in translating academic innovation into commercial solutions, and a passionate advocate for improving human health through science and entrepreneurship.

Dr. Heinrich’s sudden passing has left an immense void in the hearts of those who knew and admired him—colleagues, friends, mentees, researchers, and countless entrepreneurs whose lives were touched by his mentorship, encouragement, and visionary leadership. More than a businessman or physician, he was a bridge-builder between the lab bench and the marketplace, someone who believed in the power of ideas and the people behind them.

A Distinguished Career and Legacy of Impact

As Vice Chair and CEO of Foundation Venture Capital Group, Dr. Heinrich played an instrumental role in launching and nurturing early-stage life science companies that emerged from New Jersey’s vibrant academic and research institutions. Through his work, he championed the translation of groundbreaking biomedical discoveries into technologies and therapies that could directly benefit patients.

Prior to his leadership at FVCG, Dr. Heinrich had a long and storied career in medicine, public health, and higher education. With degrees in both medicine and business, he uniquely straddled the worlds of clinical science and strategic investment, always ensuring that the ethical imperative to serve humanity remained at the heart of his work.

His efforts led to the funding of numerous high-impact biotech startups tackling everything from cancer diagnostics and rare diseases to neuroscience, regenerative medicine, and public health solutions. He saw potential where others saw risk, and he backed innovators whose work was often too early for traditional investors to support.

A Mentor, Leader, and Gentle Force

To those who worked closely with him, Dr. George Heinrich was known not only for his intellect and foresight, but for his deep compassion and humility. He believed in people as much as he believed in innovation. His leadership style was one of inspiration rather than instruction, and he often took time to listen, encourage, and offer thoughtful guidance.

“Dr. Heinrich was the kind of leader who made you feel empowered and heard,” one FVCG colleague reflected. “He brought humanity into the boardroom and saw every investment as a partnership, not a transaction.”

He mentored countless young professionals, scientists, and entrepreneurs, often staying involved in their journeys long after funding rounds closed. His belief in doing good by doing well—a balance of social mission and business success—will remain a guiding principle at FVCG and beyond.

Beloved by the Bedford Community

Outside of his professional work, Dr. Heinrich was a dedicated member of the Bedford community, where he lived with grace and quiet generosity. He was a familiar face at local events, a supporter of community health initiatives, and a champion for youth education in the sciences.

Neighbors remember him for his warmth, his wry sense of humor, and his unwavering support of local causes. He often volunteered behind the scenes, offering his time and expertise to strengthen community programming and access to care.

“George was not just a brilliant mind—he was a kind soul,” said one Bedford resident. “Whether you knew him from the world of medicine or from across the backyard fence, he treated you with the same genuine kindness and respect.”

A Legacy That Lives On

Dr. Heinrich is survived by his loving family, including his wife, children, and grandchildren, all of whom were sources of immense pride and joy in his life. He spoke often of the importance of family, and his home was known to be a place of laughter, wisdom, and love.

In honor of Dr. Heinrich’s lasting contributions, Foundation Venture Capital Group will be establishing the George Heinrich Memorial Fund, aimed at supporting emerging life science entrepreneurs and researchers whose work reflects his mission of transforming innovation into impact.

A public memorial service is being planned, and details will be shared in the coming days. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to organizations that support biomedical innovation, health equity, or community health initiatives—causes close to Dr. Heinrich’s heart.

Final Tribute

The passing of Dr. George Heinrich, M.D. is a tremendous loss—not only to those who loved him, but to the entire ecosystem of innovation, health, and entrepreneurship he helped build. His vision will continue to inspire. His mentorship will continue to ripple through generations. And his heart—steady, selfless, and devoted to service—will never be forgotten.

Rest in peace, Dr. Heinrich. You gave us better science, stronger communities, and above all, hope.