Bringing biotech solutions to new markets

The Bioeconomy Cluster Builder supports SMEs as they develop new value chains using biotechnology. The project connects businesses with the people and resources needed to commercialise their ideas. In the last quarter, the team hosted a pitching session for three lucky companies, who spent the autumn undertaking intensive training on what and how to present to investors, and held the first of the year’s industry sector events in conjunction with fellow innovation centre The Data Lab, a webinar focused on Life Cycle Assessment which proved extremely popular and welcomed a record number of attendees.

Pitching Session – 27th January

In January, several weeks of specialist investor readiness training, provided by BCB partner Scottish Enterprise, culminated in three selected SMEs pitching their business proposals to a panel of four investors seeking exciting opportunities in the bioeconomy. IBioIC members Green Bioactives, Greenskill Environmental Technologies and Natural Scottish Wax each participated in this closed session.

For reasons of confidentiality we’re unable to publish details of the outcome from this meeting. However, we were delighted to receive positive feedback from both investors and SMEs around the pace and format of both this event and the complementary investor showcase we ran in September 2021. Keep an eye out for similar activity from the BCB in the months to come.

The BCB signposts SMEs to sources of funding and investment. Get in touch with the project’s dedicated business engagement manager to find out more.

Approaches to Life Cycle Assessment in the Bioeconomy – 24th February

Continuing the theme of tangible support for SMEs in the bioeconomy, the BCB ran a webinar focussing on the complex process of life cycle analysis (LCA).

The appetite for support with this challenging process was evidenced by an audience of over 200. A diverse range of speakers shared their perspectives and experiences of engaging with LCA. NNFCC – The Bioeconomy Consultants spoke about their practice and the support they offer companies in this area. Trailblazing circular economy SME Revive discussed their recent LCA activity and its iterative nature. Finally, specialty chemicals giant Croda International shared their take on incorporating LCA into complex supply chains.

If you missed it, you can catch up on the BCB website.

Visit the website, or get in touch with Kim Cameron, BCB business engagement manager, for more information.