UK Innovation & Science Seed Fund

Adamo Foods is a UK-based food technology company focused on developing plant-based whole-cut meats through innovative fermentation techniques and mycelium. The company aims to produce sustainable alternatives to traditional meat products, utilizing precision fermentation to create functional meat proteins. By harnessing fungal mycelium, Adamo Foods offers consumers an efficient, sustainable, and ethical way to enjoy meat-like experiences without sacrificing taste or quality.

Wave Photonics is a company based in Cambridge, UK, that focuses on advancing integrated photonics design through computational techniques. It develops a platform aimed at optimizing product designs and facilitating smoother integration within the supply chain. This platform includes a software tool that predicts the performance and variability of photonic components based on specific fabrication processes, along with an optimizer that creates a component library tailored for different manufacturing foundries. By streamlining these processes, Wave Photonics enables businesses to enhance efficiency in the development and production of integrated photonics products, ultimately promoting wider adoption of these technologies.

MIRICO Ltd. is a laser spectroscopy instrumentation company based in Oxford, United Kingdom, founded in December 2015. The company specializes in developing high-performance gas sensing technology using Laser Dispersion Spectroscopy. MIRICO's innovative instruments are designed for trace gas analysis and provide precise, real-time measurements of gas emissions, even in challenging weather conditions. Its offerings include stable isotope analyzers for space exploration and advanced monitoring solutions for applications in environmental monitoring, geochemistry, medical diagnosis, and oil and gas exploration. Through autonomous and continuous monitoring capabilities, MIRICO enables industries to track emissions effectively and gain insights into their operations, contributing to efforts aimed at achieving net-zero emissions and enhancing productivity. The company emerged as a spin-out from the Laser Spectroscopy Group at the STFC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory and is located on the Harwell Science & Innovation Campus.

Vector Photonics is a spin-out company from the University of Glasgow, located in Glasgow, Scotland, a notable center for optical and photonics innovation. The company specializes in developing advanced semiconductor laser technology aimed at enhancing data communications and additive manufacturing processes, including metal and plastic printing. Its innovative approach centers on photonic crystal surface-emitting lasers, which are cost-effective and emit light from their top surface, similar to vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs). This design facilitates easy packaging and integration into printed circuit boards (PCBs) and electronic assemblies, allowing various industries to seamlessly adopt this semiconductor laser technology into their operations.

Oxford Space Systems Limited, founded in 2013 and based in Harwell, United Kingdom, specializes in the development, manufacture, and marketing of deployable hardware structures for space environments. The company focuses on creating innovative deployable antennas, panels, hinge systems, and composite linear boom systems, utilizing advanced design techniques such as origami and proprietary materials. These technologies aim to produce structures that are lighter, less complex, and more cost-effective than traditional alternatives, catering to the global satellite industry. Oxford Space Systems has gained recognition for its rapid product development, notably with its AstroTube Boom, which achieved successful deployment in under 30 months. The company has engaged in various co-development projects supported by the UK government, collaborating with leading European satellite manufacturers and securing commercial contracts in Asia and the US. With a growing team of professionals possessing extensive experience in the space sector, Oxford Space Systems operates from a custom facility at the Harwell Space Cluster, equipped to handle defense and security contracts.

Oxford Space Systems Limited, founded in 2013 and based in Harwell, United Kingdom, specializes in the development, manufacture, and marketing of deployable hardware structures for space environments. The company focuses on creating innovative deployable antennas, panels, hinge systems, and composite linear boom systems, utilizing advanced design techniques such as origami and proprietary materials. These technologies aim to produce structures that are lighter, less complex, and more cost-effective than traditional alternatives, catering to the global satellite industry. Oxford Space Systems has gained recognition for its rapid product development, notably with its AstroTube Boom, which achieved successful deployment in under 30 months. The company has engaged in various co-development projects supported by the UK government, collaborating with leading European satellite manufacturers and securing commercial contracts in Asia and the US. With a growing team of professionals possessing extensive experience in the space sector, Oxford Space Systems operates from a custom facility at the Harwell Space Cluster, equipped to handle defense and security contracts.

HydRegen is a biotechnology company based in Oxford, United Kingdom, founded in 2020. The company specializes in developing bio-based manufacturing technologies aimed at producing clean and sustainable chemicals. Utilizing biocatalysis, HydRegen offers innovative solutions that enhance agility, speed, and predictability during the early stages of industrial research and development. This approach enables the chemicals and pharmaceutical sectors to efficiently validate their processes while meeting essential requirements related to cost, productivity, and reproducibility on a large scale.

Vitarka Therapeutics is a London-based company focused on developing medical technologies and solutions for various types of cancer. The company has created a targeted non-viral delivery platform aimed at intracellular targets in oncology, neuroscience, and neurodegeneration. This innovative platform works by activating the immune system and normalizing tumor vasculature, significantly improving outcomes for late-stage patients suffering from lung, colon, breast, and other cancers. By utilizing re-engineered pore-forming proteins for cell-specific targeting and facilitating the endosomal release of therapeutic cargo, Vitarka Therapeutics aims to provide cancer patients with renewed hope and the potential to lead more normal lives.

Productive Machines specializes in software optimization for the machining industry, helping manufacturers enhance productivity and sustainability. The company utilizes a digital twin of the machining process, incorporating physics, mechanics, dynamics, distortion, and vibration data to simulate and test millions of parameters. This approach allows manufacturers to refine their CAM and Gcode, ultimately improving part quality and reducing cycle times. By addressing issues such as chatter vibrations and tooling costs, Productive Machines enables machining companies to achieve better surface finishes and dimensional accuracy, streamlining their operations and reducing costs. The company emerged as a spin-out from the UK Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre, reflecting its commitment to advancing manufacturing technologies.

Vector Photonics is a spin-out company from the University of Glasgow, located in Glasgow, Scotland, a notable center for optical and photonics innovation. The company specializes in developing advanced semiconductor laser technology aimed at enhancing data communications and additive manufacturing processes, including metal and plastic printing. Its innovative approach centers on photonic crystal surface-emitting lasers, which are cost-effective and emit light from their top surface, similar to vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs). This design facilitates easy packaging and integration into printed circuit boards (PCBs) and electronic assemblies, allowing various industries to seamlessly adopt this semiconductor laser technology into their operations.

MIRICO Ltd. is a laser spectroscopy instrumentation company based in Oxford, United Kingdom, founded in December 2015. The company specializes in developing high-performance gas sensing technology using Laser Dispersion Spectroscopy. MIRICO's innovative instruments are designed for trace gas analysis and provide precise, real-time measurements of gas emissions, even in challenging weather conditions. Its offerings include stable isotope analyzers for space exploration and advanced monitoring solutions for applications in environmental monitoring, geochemistry, medical diagnosis, and oil and gas exploration. Through autonomous and continuous monitoring capabilities, MIRICO enables industries to track emissions effectively and gain insights into their operations, contributing to efforts aimed at achieving net-zero emissions and enhancing productivity. The company emerged as a spin-out from the Laser Spectroscopy Group at the STFC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory and is located on the Harwell Science & Innovation Campus.

Vector Photonics is a spin-out company from the University of Glasgow, located in Glasgow, Scotland, a notable center for optical and photonics innovation. The company specializes in developing advanced semiconductor laser technology aimed at enhancing data communications and additive manufacturing processes, including metal and plastic printing. Its innovative approach centers on photonic crystal surface-emitting lasers, which are cost-effective and emit light from their top surface, similar to vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs). This design facilitates easy packaging and integration into printed circuit boards (PCBs) and electronic assemblies, allowing various industries to seamlessly adopt this semiconductor laser technology into their operations.

Linear Diagnostics Limited is a diagnostics company based in Birmingham, United Kingdom, founded in 2011. The company has developed a diagnostic platform that utilizes linear dichroism (LD) technology for a variety of applications, including the detection of antibiotic resistance in infections and testing for bacteria that cause food spoilage. This innovative platform enables simultaneous measurement of multiple targets in a single sample, employing various molecular recognition methods. Additionally, Linear Diagnostics offers a handheld reader specifically designed to measure LD signals. The technology provides significant advantages over conventional methods, facilitating rapid point-of-care tests for infectious diseases and addressing challenges related to antibiotic resistance while aiming to reduce healthcare costs.

Atelerix Limited, based in Cambridge, United Kingdom, specializes in the storage and transportation of viable cells and tissues at room temperature. Founded in 2006, the company has developed a patented technology that utilizes alginate hydrogels to encapsulate biological products, protecting them from biochemical and physical damage during storage and shipping. This innovative approach eliminates the need for cryopreservation, making it easier for customers to use cells and assays immediately upon arrival without the risk of cytotoxicity or damage. Atelerix's technology enhances predictability and reliability in drug discovery models and cell therapies, allowing for the safe storage and transport of suspended and planted cells, as well as tissues and stem cells.

Atelerix Limited, based in Cambridge, United Kingdom, specializes in the storage and transportation of viable cells and tissues at room temperature. Founded in 2006, the company has developed a patented technology that utilizes alginate hydrogels to encapsulate biological products, protecting them from biochemical and physical damage during storage and shipping. This innovative approach eliminates the need for cryopreservation, making it easier for customers to use cells and assays immediately upon arrival without the risk of cytotoxicity or damage. Atelerix's technology enhances predictability and reliability in drug discovery models and cell therapies, allowing for the safe storage and transport of suspended and planted cells, as well as tissues and stem cells.

MIRICO Ltd. is a laser spectroscopy instrumentation company based in Oxford, United Kingdom, founded in December 2015. The company specializes in developing high-performance gas sensing technology using Laser Dispersion Spectroscopy. MIRICO's innovative instruments are designed for trace gas analysis and provide precise, real-time measurements of gas emissions, even in challenging weather conditions. Its offerings include stable isotope analyzers for space exploration and advanced monitoring solutions for applications in environmental monitoring, geochemistry, medical diagnosis, and oil and gas exploration. Through autonomous and continuous monitoring capabilities, MIRICO enables industries to track emissions effectively and gain insights into their operations, contributing to efforts aimed at achieving net-zero emissions and enhancing productivity. The company emerged as a spin-out from the Laser Spectroscopy Group at the STFC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory and is located on the Harwell Science & Innovation Campus.

Atelerix Limited, based in Cambridge, United Kingdom, specializes in the storage and transportation of viable cells and tissues at room temperature. Founded in 2006, the company has developed a patented technology that utilizes alginate hydrogels to encapsulate biological products, protecting them from biochemical and physical damage during storage and shipping. This innovative approach eliminates the need for cryopreservation, making it easier for customers to use cells and assays immediately upon arrival without the risk of cytotoxicity or damage. Atelerix's technology enhances predictability and reliability in drug discovery models and cell therapies, allowing for the safe storage and transport of suspended and planted cells, as well as tissues and stem cells.

SFH Oxford Ltd. is a company based in Didcot, United Kingdom, that specializes in developing and marketing innovative healthcare products aimed at improving the treatment of venous leg ulcers. Founded in 2011, the company offers a range of products, including Graducheck, a sensor-based technology that enhances the application of compression bandages, and anatomical focus technology graduated compression socks designed to ensure appropriate compression levels. SFH Oxford also provides K-gel, a wound dressing. By focusing on optimizing care for patients with chronic wounds, the company's solutions aim to enhance healing rates and patient compliance while remaining cost-effective for healthcare systems. SFH Oxford's leadership team brings extensive experience in medical device technology and wound care, and the company is actively conducting clinical and field trials on additional products that show promising results in real-world applications.

Synthace Limited is a company focused on transforming the way biological experimentation is conducted across various sectors, including health, pharmaceuticals, food, energy, agri-science, and industrial biotechnology. Established in 2011 and headquartered in London, with an additional office in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Synthace offers a cloud-based platform called Antha. This platform enables life science research and development teams to streamline their experimental processes by allowing scientists to design, plan, and execute reproducible experiments without requiring coding skills. Antha facilitates the automation of laboratory experiments and the organization of experimental data, making it easier for researchers to run complex experiments that might have been previously deemed impractical. The company has also formed a strategic partnership with Microsoft to enhance its offerings.

Puraffinity Ltd, founded in 2015 and based in London, specializes in innovative water treatment and purification solutions. The company, which was previously known as Customem Ltd before rebranding in July 2019, has developed a sustainable bio-based adsorbent material designed to effectively remove challenging pollutants from contaminated water and wastewater. Utilizing advanced supramolecular chemistry, Puraffinity's technology allows for the selective capture of micro-pollutants, including pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and hazardous chemicals such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. This capability enables clients to comply with stringent wastewater regulations while contributing to the protection of local ecosystems. Puraffinity is committed to addressing pressing water quality challenges through environmentally sustainable practices.

Cytox Limited specializes in developing products and services aimed at diagnosing and treating neurodegenerative disorders, particularly Alzheimer's disease. The company has created a genetic-based blood test that assesses the risk and diagnosis of Alzheimer's in its early stages, addressing a critical need as the prevalence of the disease rises globally. Cytox's offerings include cellular and genetic assays for identifying cell cycle deficits in patients, along with biomarker and drug-screening services for pharmaceutical companies engaged in clinical trials. The company collaborates with Affymetrix, part of Thermo Fisher Scientific, to enhance its commercial testing capabilities. Founded in 2004 and headquartered in Birmingham, United Kingdom, with additional offices in Manchester and Oxford, Cytox serves pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms, as well as research laboratories involved in clinical research and drug development.

Linear Diagnostics Limited is a diagnostics company based in Birmingham, United Kingdom, founded in 2011. The company has developed a diagnostic platform that utilizes linear dichroism (LD) technology for a variety of applications, including the detection of antibiotic resistance in infections and testing for bacteria that cause food spoilage. This innovative platform enables simultaneous measurement of multiple targets in a single sample, employing various molecular recognition methods. Additionally, Linear Diagnostics offers a handheld reader specifically designed to measure LD signals. The technology provides significant advantages over conventional methods, facilitating rapid point-of-care tests for infectious diseases and addressing challenges related to antibiotic resistance while aiming to reduce healthcare costs.

Nemesis Bioscience Ltd., established in 2014 and headquartered in Cambridge, UK, specializes in developing and commercializing innovative therapeutic agents. The company's core focus is to restore the effectiveness of existing antibiotics against currently resistant microbial pathogens. Nemesis Bioscience achieves this through its symbiotics, which directly kill pathogenic microorganisms and/or sensitize them to currently available antibiotics. The company's solutions are employed to treat infections and prevent patients from acquiring potentially life-threatening resistant pathogens. Nemesis Bioscience has been recognized for its work, having received the King's College, Cambridge Entrepreneurship Award in 2014, and has filed international patent applications for its inventions.

The Electrospinning Company Ltd. specializes in the design, development, and manufacturing of biomaterials for regenerative medical devices and 3D cell culture applications. Based in Didcot, United Kingdom, the company offers a range of products, including aligned fiber scaffolds, removable scaffold discs, and tissue culture plates with hanging inserts. These products are utilized in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and drug discovery research. Additionally, the company provides various services, such as scaffold design, sterilization protocol development, regulatory support, and manufacturing for clinical trials. The Electrospinning Company collaborates with academic research groups to create innovative nanofiber solutions that address industrial challenges and enhance medical functions. Founded in 2008, the company also sells its products online, making its advanced biomaterials accessible for in vitro and in vivo applications.

Keit Ltd. specializes in the design and manufacture of advanced spectrometers and related instruments that operate across a spectrum from ultraviolet to far infrared rays. Established in 2012 and based in Didcot, United Kingdom, the company focuses on innovative applications for its products, which include the measurement of signal levels, vibrations, and various substances in both gas and liquid forms. One of Keit's flagship products is the microFTS®, a compact and rugged Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrometer originally developed for space applications. This device sets a new benchmark for real-time liquid-state analyses and serves industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, oil and gas, and food and beverage, where performance in extreme environments is crucial.

MIRICO Ltd. is a laser spectroscopy instrumentation company based in Oxford, United Kingdom, founded in December 2015. The company specializes in developing high-performance gas sensing technology using Laser Dispersion Spectroscopy. MIRICO's innovative instruments are designed for trace gas analysis and provide precise, real-time measurements of gas emissions, even in challenging weather conditions. Its offerings include stable isotope analyzers for space exploration and advanced monitoring solutions for applications in environmental monitoring, geochemistry, medical diagnosis, and oil and gas exploration. Through autonomous and continuous monitoring capabilities, MIRICO enables industries to track emissions effectively and gain insights into their operations, contributing to efforts aimed at achieving net-zero emissions and enhancing productivity. The company emerged as a spin-out from the Laser Spectroscopy Group at the STFC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory and is located on the Harwell Science & Innovation Campus.

Quethera Limited is a gene therapy company based in Canterbury, United Kingdom, founded in 2013. The company specializes in developing innovative treatments for glaucoma and other ophthalmic diseases, particularly aimed at reducing progressive visual loss associated with these conditions. Quethera collaborates with leading experts in the field of glaucoma to design and conduct clinical trials that evaluate the efficacy and safety of its novel therapies, especially for patients who experience accelerated visual field loss. With a strong foundation in gene therapeutic design and development, Quethera is advancing its research pipeline from preclinical testing into clinical development, striving to enhance treatment options for patients suffering from common blinding eye diseases. As of August 2018, Quethera operates as a subsidiary of Astellas Pharma Inc.

Oxford Space Systems Limited, founded in 2013 and based in Harwell, United Kingdom, specializes in the development, manufacture, and marketing of deployable hardware structures for space environments. The company focuses on creating innovative deployable antennas, panels, hinge systems, and composite linear boom systems, utilizing advanced design techniques such as origami and proprietary materials. These technologies aim to produce structures that are lighter, less complex, and more cost-effective than traditional alternatives, catering to the global satellite industry. Oxford Space Systems has gained recognition for its rapid product development, notably with its AstroTube Boom, which achieved successful deployment in under 30 months. The company has engaged in various co-development projects supported by the UK government, collaborating with leading European satellite manufacturers and securing commercial contracts in Asia and the US. With a growing team of professionals possessing extensive experience in the space sector, Oxford Space Systems operates from a custom facility at the Harwell Space Cluster, equipped to handle defense and security contracts.

Synthace Limited is a company focused on transforming the way biological experimentation is conducted across various sectors, including health, pharmaceuticals, food, energy, agri-science, and industrial biotechnology. Established in 2011 and headquartered in London, with an additional office in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Synthace offers a cloud-based platform called Antha. This platform enables life science research and development teams to streamline their experimental processes by allowing scientists to design, plan, and execute reproducible experiments without requiring coding skills. Antha facilitates the automation of laboratory experiments and the organization of experimental data, making it easier for researchers to run complex experiments that might have been previously deemed impractical. The company has also formed a strategic partnership with Microsoft to enhance its offerings.

Synthace Limited is a company focused on transforming the way biological experimentation is conducted across various sectors, including health, pharmaceuticals, food, energy, agri-science, and industrial biotechnology. Established in 2011 and headquartered in London, with an additional office in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Synthace offers a cloud-based platform called Antha. This platform enables life science research and development teams to streamline their experimental processes by allowing scientists to design, plan, and execute reproducible experiments without requiring coding skills. Antha facilitates the automation of laboratory experiments and the organization of experimental data, making it easier for researchers to run complex experiments that might have been previously deemed impractical. The company has also formed a strategic partnership with Microsoft to enhance its offerings.

Tokamak Energy Ltd is a private company based in Abingdon, United Kingdom, focused on the development of fusion power technology. Established in 2009, it specializes in creating compact fusion reactors known as spherical tokamaks, which offer a more efficient means of achieving high plasma pressure compared to traditional designs. The company's key products, the ST25 and ST40, utilize high-temperature superconductors and advanced materials to enhance plasma confinement and overall reactor performance. By leveraging decades of scientific research, Tokamak Energy aims to accelerate the commercial viability of fusion energy, positioning itself as a leader in the pursuit of affordable and sustainable energy solutions that contribute to global energy security while minimizing environmental impact.

SFH Oxford Ltd. is a company based in Didcot, United Kingdom, that specializes in developing and marketing innovative healthcare products aimed at improving the treatment of venous leg ulcers. Founded in 2011, the company offers a range of products, including Graducheck, a sensor-based technology that enhances the application of compression bandages, and anatomical focus technology graduated compression socks designed to ensure appropriate compression levels. SFH Oxford also provides K-gel, a wound dressing. By focusing on optimizing care for patients with chronic wounds, the company's solutions aim to enhance healing rates and patient compliance while remaining cost-effective for healthcare systems. SFH Oxford's leadership team brings extensive experience in medical device technology and wound care, and the company is actively conducting clinical and field trials on additional products that show promising results in real-world applications.

Tokamak Solutions UK Ltd. engages in providing technology for fusion neutron source to transmute nuclear waste. The company was founded in 2009 and is based in Abingdon, United Kingdom.

MicroVisk Limited, founded in 2004 and based in Oxford, United Kingdom, specializes in the development of innovative medical devices. The company has created CoagMax, a point-of-care monitor that enables patients to conduct PT/INR testing at home, facilitating self-monitoring of blood coagulation levels. This device utilizes advanced micro electro mechanical sensors embedded in a disposable smart strip, allowing for a convenient, safe, and accurate testing experience. By focusing on patient-friendly solutions, MicroVisk aims to improve the quality of life for individuals requiring regular blood coagulation monitoring.

MicroVisk Limited, founded in 2004 and based in Oxford, United Kingdom, specializes in the development of innovative medical devices. The company has created CoagMax, a point-of-care monitor that enables patients to conduct PT/INR testing at home, facilitating self-monitoring of blood coagulation levels. This device utilizes advanced micro electro mechanical sensors embedded in a disposable smart strip, allowing for a convenient, safe, and accurate testing experience. By focusing on patient-friendly solutions, MicroVisk aims to improve the quality of life for individuals requiring regular blood coagulation monitoring.

P2i Limited is a leading provider of liquid repellent nano-coating technology, specializing in pulsed plasma deposition processes that create hydrophobic coatings for various materials. Founded in 2003 and headquartered in Abingdon, United Kingdom, P2i offers innovative solutions that enhance the performance of products across multiple industries, including electronics, lifestyle, life sciences, filtration, energy, and military applications. The company's cutting-edge coatings enable surfaces to repel liquids, allowing them to bead up and roll off without altering the original appearance or texture of the materials. P2i serves a global market, with processing facilities in the United States, an office in Singapore, and applications centers in China, helping original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) protect their products from water damage and other liquid exposure.

MicroVisk Limited, founded in 2004 and based in Oxford, United Kingdom, specializes in the development of innovative medical devices. The company has created CoagMax, a point-of-care monitor that enables patients to conduct PT/INR testing at home, facilitating self-monitoring of blood coagulation levels. This device utilizes advanced micro electro mechanical sensors embedded in a disposable smart strip, allowing for a convenient, safe, and accurate testing experience. By focusing on patient-friendly solutions, MicroVisk aims to improve the quality of life for individuals requiring regular blood coagulation monitoring.

Orbital Optics specializes in the manufacture and sale of high-resolution optical cameras designed for space missions, catering to both the United Kingdom and international markets. The company focuses on producing compact and affordable space cameras that deliver high-quality images. In addition to its camera manufacturing, Orbital Optics offers consultancy services related to imaging systems and optical payloads, along with access to supporting ground station facilities.

Oxsensis Ltd. is a manufacturer of non-electrical optical sensors designed for extreme environments, focusing on applications in aerospace, power generation, oil and gas, and nuclear industries. Founded in 2003 and headquartered in Didcot, United Kingdom, the company specializes in optical pressure sensor systems, temperature transducers, and optical accelerometers. Its product lineup includes the Wave-Phire Dynamic Pressure Transducer for harsh atmospheres, the i-Phire 4 Channel Optical Interrogator Unit for converting optical signals into voltage signals, and S-Phire software for combustion monitoring. These sensors provide high sensitivity and immunity to electromagnetic interference, optimizing performance in demanding conditions. Oxsensis also supports various markets, including energy production, emissions monitoring, and high-temperature equipment health monitoring, with additional offices in the United States, Russia, China, and Japan.