Innovate UK

Innovate UK is a non-departmental public body established in 2007 and based in Swindon, United Kingdom. Funded by a government grant, it supports innovation in science and technology by providing funding services to businesses across various sectors and regions. The organization aims to drive productivity and economic growth by facilitating advancements that contribute to the UK’s economic landscape. In addition to funding, Innovate UK offers a range of services and information related to business and economic development, thereby fostering a supportive environment for innovation.

Mike Biddle

Programme Director of Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund

Will Drury

Executive Director, Digital and Technologies

Paul Gadd

Deputy Director

Dr. Tom Jenkins

Deputy Director

Tim Murley

Interim Chief Investment Officer

Scott James O'Brien

Director, Innovation Finance

Dave Wilkes

Director of Innovation Ecosystem

Past deals in Nutrition

Better Nature

Grant in 2022
Better Nature Ltd. is a UK-based company specializing in the production of packaged organic food products, primarily focusing on tempeh and related items. Founded in 2018, the company offers a range of products including tempeh, tempeh mince, rashers, and smoked varieties, which are available through its online platform and various retailers. Better Nature is recognized as a pioneer in tempeh fermentation and innovation, utilizing proprietary starter cultures and processing methods to create high-protein, plant-based foods that are both nutritious and easy to prepare. The company has received several accolades for its innovative approach, including multiple awards at international food tech competitions. Better Nature has established a presence in over 200 independent retailers and is negotiating with major supermarkets in the UK. Additionally, the brand has gained recognition as a leading vegetarian protein provider on platforms like Amazon UK and has recently expanded into foodservice distribution. The company aims to offer products that promote health and sustainability, aligning with its mission to create food that benefits both people and the planet.

DashSalt

Non Equity Assistance in 2021
Empowering food and drink Content Creators to be discovered by and directly supported by an audience hungry for content.

Entocycle

Grant in 2019
Entocycle Ltd is a London-based company that specializes in producing insect-based protein for animal feed. Founded in 2014, it raises black soldier flies in an automated system designed to monitor their development and environmental conditions. By utilizing food waste from farms, factories, and the catering industry, Entocycle effectively converts organic waste into sustainable protein biomass. This approach not only provides a cost-effective alternative to traditional feed sources like soymeal and fishmeal but also addresses environmental concerns associated with conventional agriculture. The company's technology enables efficient vertical farming, allowing for large-scale production of protein with significantly reduced land and water usage. Entocycle serves various sectors, including feed suppliers, retailers, and the agricultural industry, promoting a more sustainable and resource-efficient method of livestock feeding.

Nandi Proteins

Grant in 2016
Nandi Proteins Limited is a technology-driven company based in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, focused on enhancing the functional properties of proteins in food manufacturing and nutrition. Established in 2000 and spun out of Heriot Watt University in 2001, the company specializes in patented processes that improve common proteins such as whey, egg, and soy. Nandi Proteins aims to be a leader in denatured protein technology, facilitating growth through direct trading of value-added proteins and strategic licensing agreements with industry partners. Its innovative approach employs a combination of heat, time, and temperature control to modify proteins, enabling food and beverage manufacturers to achieve desirable characteristics and health benefits while efficiently extracting valuable components like enzymes.
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