Scottish Enterprise

Scottish Enterprise is Scotland's primary economic development agency, operating as a non-departmental public body of the Scottish Government. Its mission is to foster economic growth by supporting the development of innovative, high-wage industries with a strong international presence. The organization plays a crucial role in assisting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in securing financing, helping them engage with funders and access the necessary capital for expansion. Scottish Enterprise invests through its arm, the Scottish Investment Bank, which focuses on various sectors, including renewable energy, life sciences, and creative industries. The firm engages in both direct and fund-of-fund investing, typically providing financial support in the form of equity or loans ranging from £0.01 million to £10 million. Additionally, it collaborates with public and private sectors and works alongside UK and international investors to enhance the funding landscape for Scottish businesses. Through these initiatives, Scottish Enterprise aims to create a sustainable economic impact and strengthen the funding market within Scotland.

Reuben Aitken

Managing Director, International Operations

Rhona Allison

Managing Director, Business Growth

Mark Hallan

Global Director, Strategic Relationships

Linda Hanna

Interim CEO

Jane Martin

Managing Director of Innovation and Investment

Jim McFarlane

Managing Director of Operations

Charlie Smith

Managing Director of Scottish Development International and Group Head of Strategy and Technology

Past deals in Life Science

Solasta Bio

Grant in 2023
Solasta Bio develops environment-friendly products that meet a global need for new and effective crop protection.

Solasta Bio

Seed Round in 2023
Solasta Bio develops environment-friendly products that meet a global need for new and effective crop protection.

Elasmogen

Venture Round in 2022
Elasmogen Ltd, a biopharmaceutical company, discovers and develops sight-saving therapies for inflammatory eye diseases. The company develops soloMER that are small (11 kDa) and stable proteins that have squeezed a fourth binding loop into their single domain format and are derived evolutionarily from a non-antibody lineage, placing them outside the complex/competitive antibody patent landscape. Its pipeline includes ELN/21 and ELN/22, which are auto-immune mediated anti-inflammatory programs; soloMER-drug-conjugates; and NDure, a soloMER (humanized clinical candidate) available for extending the plasma half-life of fused partner molecules, such as scFv, peptides, growth factors, single domains, etc. Elasmogen Ltd has strategic partnerships with Almac Discovery Ltd and Merck Inc. The company was founded in 2014 and is based in Aberdeen, United Kingdom.

Biotangents

Venture Round in 2022
Biotangents Ltd., founded in 2015 and based in Glasgow, United Kingdom, specializes in designing and building biological pathways for the production of valuable natural materials. The company utilizes its proprietary Leapfrog Assembly platform to create complex genetic constructs from various DNA components. Among its innovations is the development of terpenoid biosynthesis strains and the Short Sequence Randomisation technology for DNA randomisation. Biotangents has also conceptualized Moduleic Sensing, a modular cell-free nucleic acid detection technology, which led to the creation of a diagnostic test for identifying infectious diseases in livestock. This veterinary diagnostic device employs isothermal amplification technology, enabling precise detection without significant technical demands and allowing for quick adaptation to new targets. The solutions provided by Biotangents aim to mitigate the impact of infectious diseases in livestock, thereby enhancing the efficiency of animal protein production.

ŌGI Bio

Seed Round in 2022
ŌGI Bio is a newly formed start-up company from The University of Edinburgh with the mission to revolutionize the way that microbes are grown and managed.

Axol

Venture Round in 2022
Axol Bioscience Ltd. is a biotechnology company based in Little Chesterford, United Kingdom, specializing in human cell culture systems for medical research, disease modeling, and drug discovery. The company produces a variety of human cells, including iPSC-derived cells like cardiomyocytes and neural stem cells, as well as primary cells such as endothelial and muscle cells. Axol also offers essential media and reagents, including cell culture media and growth supplements, to support researchers in their work. Additionally, the company provides custom services such as cell and tissue sourcing, iPSC reprogramming, differentiation into various cell types, and genome editing. Axol's products and services are utilized by pharmaceutical companies and research institutions worldwide, with distribution channels spanning multiple countries. Established in 2012, Axol is located in a notable innovation hub, Chesterford Research Park, in Cambridge, UK.

Valneva

Grant in 2022
Valneva SE is a specialty vaccine company dedicated to the development and commercialization of vaccines for infectious diseases that lack adequate solutions. The company offers two commercial vaccines for travelers: IXIARO/JESPECT, which protects against Japanese encephalitis, and DUKORAL, aimed at preventing cholera and certain types of diarrhea. Valneva is also advancing several vaccine candidates, including the only developmental vaccine for Lyme disease and a single-shot vaccine for chikungunya. Founded in 1999, Valneva operates in multiple countries, including Austria, Canada, France, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The company is involved in a collaboration with Dynavax Technologies Corporation to further vaccine development for COVID-19. Valneva's focus is on addressing urgent public health needs through innovative vaccine solutions.

Solasta Bio

Seed Round in 2021
Solasta Bio develops environment-friendly products that meet a global need for new and effective crop protection.

Solasta Bio

Pre Seed Round in 2021
Solasta Bio develops environment-friendly products that meet a global need for new and effective crop protection.
Asklepios BioPharmaceutical is a biotechnology company developing adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene therapies for genetic disorders and other rare diseases. It offers proprietary AAV technology, manufacturing capabilities, and a robust pipeline of in-house clinical programs for clients in the medical biopharmaceutical industry. Its pipeline includes clinical-stage programs in Pompe disease and congestive heart failure and a diverse preclinical portfolio of therapeutics targeting neuromuscular, CNS, and other diseases, as well as out-licensed clinical indications for hemophilia and Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The company’s gene therapy platform includes Pro10, an industry-leading proprietary cell line manufacturing process, and an extensive AAV capsid, and promoter library. Asklepios BioPharmaceutical was founded in 2001 and is headquartered in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.

Censo

Venture Round in 2020
Censo Biotechnologies Ltd engages in the development of stem cell technology company providing human cells and contract research services for drug discovery, toxicity testing and cell banking. Its induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) technology enables creation of stem cells in the laboratory from any person who donates a skin or blood sample. The company provides services, such as human tissue sample procurement, iPSC generation, iPSC genome editing, differentiated cell protocol development and industrialization, production of differentiated cells of specific lineages, cell based assay development, and compound screening. Censo Biotechnologies Ltd was formerly known as Roslin Cellab Limited and changed its name to Censo Biotechnologies Ltd in May 2016. The company was founded in 2008 and is based in Edinburgh, United Kingdom with an additional office in Cambridge, United Kingdom.

Censo

Venture Round in 2020
Censo Biotechnologies Ltd engages in the development of stem cell technology company providing human cells and contract research services for drug discovery, toxicity testing and cell banking. Its induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) technology enables creation of stem cells in the laboratory from any person who donates a skin or blood sample. The company provides services, such as human tissue sample procurement, iPSC generation, iPSC genome editing, differentiated cell protocol development and industrialization, production of differentiated cells of specific lineages, cell based assay development, and compound screening. Censo Biotechnologies Ltd was formerly known as Roslin Cellab Limited and changed its name to Censo Biotechnologies Ltd in May 2016. The company was founded in 2008 and is based in Edinburgh, United Kingdom with an additional office in Cambridge, United Kingdom.

Wobble Genomics

Grant in 2020
Wobble Genomics is a biotechnology firm focused on enhancing the efficiency of RNA and DNA sequencing to facilitate the discovery and detection of nucleic acid biomarkers. The company employs a blend of biochemistry and bioinformatics to achieve unprecedented sensitivity and accuracy in identifying novel biomarkers. By optimizing sampling efficiency during sequencing, Wobble Genomics aims to reduce costs for medical researchers, thereby advancing the field of genomic analysis and improving diagnostic capabilities.

Censo

Venture Round in 2019
Censo Biotechnologies Ltd engages in the development of stem cell technology company providing human cells and contract research services for drug discovery, toxicity testing and cell banking. Its induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) technology enables creation of stem cells in the laboratory from any person who donates a skin or blood sample. The company provides services, such as human tissue sample procurement, iPSC generation, iPSC genome editing, differentiated cell protocol development and industrialization, production of differentiated cells of specific lineages, cell based assay development, and compound screening. Censo Biotechnologies Ltd was formerly known as Roslin Cellab Limited and changed its name to Censo Biotechnologies Ltd in May 2016. The company was founded in 2008 and is based in Edinburgh, United Kingdom with an additional office in Cambridge, United Kingdom.

Biotangents

Series A in 2019
Biotangents Ltd., founded in 2015 and based in Glasgow, United Kingdom, specializes in designing and building biological pathways for the production of valuable natural materials. The company utilizes its proprietary Leapfrog Assembly platform to create complex genetic constructs from various DNA components. Among its innovations is the development of terpenoid biosynthesis strains and the Short Sequence Randomisation technology for DNA randomisation. Biotangents has also conceptualized Moduleic Sensing, a modular cell-free nucleic acid detection technology, which led to the creation of a diagnostic test for identifying infectious diseases in livestock. This veterinary diagnostic device employs isothermal amplification technology, enabling precise detection without significant technical demands and allowing for quick adaptation to new targets. The solutions provided by Biotangents aim to mitigate the impact of infectious diseases in livestock, thereby enhancing the efficiency of animal protein production.

Synpromics

Grant in 2018
Synpromics Ltd. specializes in the development and commercialization of synthetic promoters that regulate gene expression. Founded in 2010 and located in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, the company focuses on enhancing the safety and efficacy of cell and gene therapies through its proprietary genomics and bioinformatics technologies. By utilizing a comprehensive bioinformatics database, Synpromics enables the design and selection of product-specific promoters, which supports biological researchers and developers in creating innovative solutions in the fields of AgBio and bioprocessing. As of 2019, Synpromics operates as a subsidiary of Asklepios BioPharmaceutical, Inc.

Biotangents

Seed Round in 2018
Biotangents Ltd., founded in 2015 and based in Glasgow, United Kingdom, specializes in designing and building biological pathways for the production of valuable natural materials. The company utilizes its proprietary Leapfrog Assembly platform to create complex genetic constructs from various DNA components. Among its innovations is the development of terpenoid biosynthesis strains and the Short Sequence Randomisation technology for DNA randomisation. Biotangents has also conceptualized Moduleic Sensing, a modular cell-free nucleic acid detection technology, which led to the creation of a diagnostic test for identifying infectious diseases in livestock. This veterinary diagnostic device employs isothermal amplification technology, enabling precise detection without significant technical demands and allowing for quick adaptation to new targets. The solutions provided by Biotangents aim to mitigate the impact of infectious diseases in livestock, thereby enhancing the efficiency of animal protein production.

TC Biopharm

Venture Round in 2018
TC BioPharm’s mission is to develop and commercialise innovative cell-based products to treat disease, improving patient health and Quality of Life. TC BioPharm is a clinical development company with a cell-based product pipeline capable of treating a variety of disorders including cancer and severe viral infections. TCB is currently conducting Phase II/III clinical studies of its lead product, ImmuniCell®, in renal cell cancinoma, non-small cell lung cancer and melanoma patients.

Lamellar Biomedical

Series C in 2017
Lamellar Biomedical Ltd. is a biotechnology company based in Bellshill, United Kingdom, focused on developing and commercializing medical devices and pharmaceuticals that utilize mimetics of extra-alveolar lamellar bodies. Established in 2006 and renamed in 2007, the company has harnessed the therapeutic potential of its proprietary product, Lamellasomes, a synthetic substance designed to mimic the actions of natural lamellar bodies. These products aim to treat various conditions, including respiratory diseases such as cystic fibrosis, as well as complications from radiotherapy-induced xerostomia and dry eye disease. Lamellar Biomedical is dedicated to advancing innovative therapies to address significant medical needs.

Synpromics

Venture Round in 2017
Synpromics Ltd. specializes in the development and commercialization of synthetic promoters that regulate gene expression. Founded in 2010 and located in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, the company focuses on enhancing the safety and efficacy of cell and gene therapies through its proprietary genomics and bioinformatics technologies. By utilizing a comprehensive bioinformatics database, Synpromics enables the design and selection of product-specific promoters, which supports biological researchers and developers in creating innovative solutions in the fields of AgBio and bioprocessing. As of 2019, Synpromics operates as a subsidiary of Asklepios BioPharmaceutical, Inc.

Elasmogen

Grant in 2017
Elasmogen Ltd, a biopharmaceutical company, discovers and develops sight-saving therapies for inflammatory eye diseases. The company develops soloMER that are small (11 kDa) and stable proteins that have squeezed a fourth binding loop into their single domain format and are derived evolutionarily from a non-antibody lineage, placing them outside the complex/competitive antibody patent landscape. Its pipeline includes ELN/21 and ELN/22, which are auto-immune mediated anti-inflammatory programs; soloMER-drug-conjugates; and NDure, a soloMER (humanized clinical candidate) available for extending the plasma half-life of fused partner molecules, such as scFv, peptides, growth factors, single domains, etc. Elasmogen Ltd has strategic partnerships with Almac Discovery Ltd and Merck Inc. The company was founded in 2014 and is based in Aberdeen, United Kingdom.

Elasmogen

Seed Round in 2017
Elasmogen Ltd, a biopharmaceutical company, discovers and develops sight-saving therapies for inflammatory eye diseases. The company develops soloMER that are small (11 kDa) and stable proteins that have squeezed a fourth binding loop into their single domain format and are derived evolutionarily from a non-antibody lineage, placing them outside the complex/competitive antibody patent landscape. Its pipeline includes ELN/21 and ELN/22, which are auto-immune mediated anti-inflammatory programs; soloMER-drug-conjugates; and NDure, a soloMER (humanized clinical candidate) available for extending the plasma half-life of fused partner molecules, such as scFv, peptides, growth factors, single domains, etc. Elasmogen Ltd has strategic partnerships with Almac Discovery Ltd and Merck Inc. The company was founded in 2014 and is based in Aberdeen, United Kingdom.

TC Biopharm

Series A in 2017
TC BioPharm’s mission is to develop and commercialise innovative cell-based products to treat disease, improving patient health and Quality of Life. TC BioPharm is a clinical development company with a cell-based product pipeline capable of treating a variety of disorders including cancer and severe viral infections. TCB is currently conducting Phase II/III clinical studies of its lead product, ImmuniCell®, in renal cell cancinoma, non-small cell lung cancer and melanoma patients.

Clyde Biosciences

Series A in 2015
Clyde Biosciences Ltd. specializes in developmental drug testing solutions, focusing on cardiac cell analysis to provide insights into drug mechanisms and toxicity. The company has developed cellOPTIQ, an optical action potential assay that helps clients assess the cardiotoxicity risk of new and existing drugs by evaluating their effects on human cells. Additionally, Clyde Biosciences offers XTENDSR, which allows for direct measurements of drug-induced changes in cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum function. By delivering human-relevant cardiomyocyte functional data, the company aids pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms in mitigating risks during drug development. Founded in 2012 and based in Glasgow, United Kingdom, Clyde Biosciences serves clients both domestically and internationally.

Synpromics

Venture Round in 2014
Synpromics Ltd. specializes in the development and commercialization of synthetic promoters that regulate gene expression. Founded in 2010 and located in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, the company focuses on enhancing the safety and efficacy of cell and gene therapies through its proprietary genomics and bioinformatics technologies. By utilizing a comprehensive bioinformatics database, Synpromics enables the design and selection of product-specific promoters, which supports biological researchers and developers in creating innovative solutions in the fields of AgBio and bioprocessing. As of 2019, Synpromics operates as a subsidiary of Asklepios BioPharmaceutical, Inc.

Elasmogen

Grant in 2014
Elasmogen Ltd, a biopharmaceutical company, discovers and develops sight-saving therapies for inflammatory eye diseases. The company develops soloMER that are small (11 kDa) and stable proteins that have squeezed a fourth binding loop into their single domain format and are derived evolutionarily from a non-antibody lineage, placing them outside the complex/competitive antibody patent landscape. Its pipeline includes ELN/21 and ELN/22, which are auto-immune mediated anti-inflammatory programs; soloMER-drug-conjugates; and NDure, a soloMER (humanized clinical candidate) available for extending the plasma half-life of fused partner molecules, such as scFv, peptides, growth factors, single domains, etc. Elasmogen Ltd has strategic partnerships with Almac Discovery Ltd and Merck Inc. The company was founded in 2014 and is based in Aberdeen, United Kingdom.

Lamellar Biomedical

Series A in 2013
Lamellar Biomedical Ltd. is a biotechnology company based in Bellshill, United Kingdom, focused on developing and commercializing medical devices and pharmaceuticals that utilize mimetics of extra-alveolar lamellar bodies. Established in 2006 and renamed in 2007, the company has harnessed the therapeutic potential of its proprietary product, Lamellasomes, a synthetic substance designed to mimic the actions of natural lamellar bodies. These products aim to treat various conditions, including respiratory diseases such as cystic fibrosis, as well as complications from radiotherapy-induced xerostomia and dry eye disease. Lamellar Biomedical is dedicated to advancing innovative therapies to address significant medical needs.

Lab901

Venture Round in 2009
Lab901 Limited engages in the development and production of automated gel electrophories in the United Kingdom. It offers ScreenTape P200 variant, which allows scientists in expressing and purifying recombinant proteins and monoclonal antibodies to carry out SDS-PAGE and analysis; ScreenTape R6K that is developed for reproducible RNA characterisation and quality control; and ScreenTape D800, which separates DNA fragments.

BigDNA

Venture Round in 2008
Big DNA Ltd was set up in 2007 by Dr John March, as a spin out company from the Moredun Research Institute at Edinburgh University, to further develop and commercialise new vaccination technologies. Based at Roslin BioCentre, the company currently employs 7 people.

Lab901

Venture Round in 2008
Lab901 Limited engages in the development and production of automated gel electrophories in the United Kingdom. It offers ScreenTape P200 variant, which allows scientists in expressing and purifying recombinant proteins and monoclonal antibodies to carry out SDS-PAGE and analysis; ScreenTape R6K that is developed for reproducible RNA characterisation and quality control; and ScreenTape D800, which separates DNA fragments.

BigDNA

Venture Round in 2007
Big DNA Ltd was set up in 2007 by Dr John March, as a spin out company from the Moredun Research Institute at Edinburgh University, to further develop and commercialise new vaccination technologies. Based at Roslin BioCentre, the company currently employs 7 people.

DC Biosciences Ltd

Seed Round in 2007
DC Biosciences Ltd specializes in providing proteomics services and molecular biology solutions to pharmaceutical and biotech companies, facilitating the development of drugs. The company offers a comprehensive technology portfolio, focusing on quantitative proteomics to support preclinical activities in drug discovery. Its services include biomarker discovery and validation, as well as drug re-profiling and repositioning. Key products offered by DC Biosciences include stable isotope labeling with amino acids in cell culture (SILAC) reagents, such as SILAC cell culture media and dialysed sera for SILAC applications, along with click chemistry reagents. Established in 2006 and originally known as Dundee Cell Products Ltd, the company rebranded to DC Biosciences Ltd in 2016 and is headquartered in Dundee, United Kingdom.

Lab901

Venture Round in 2005
Lab901 Limited engages in the development and production of automated gel electrophories in the United Kingdom. It offers ScreenTape P200 variant, which allows scientists in expressing and purifying recombinant proteins and monoclonal antibodies to carry out SDS-PAGE and analysis; ScreenTape R6K that is developed for reproducible RNA characterisation and quality control; and ScreenTape D800, which separates DNA fragments.
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