Deadline: September 22, 2025
UK SMEs developing solutions in engineering biology now have the opportunity to access expert investment pitch training, receive tailored support, and pitch to investors at a dedicated Investor Showcase Event.
The programme focuses on agriculture and food production, health, materials and chemicals, energy and low carbon fuels, waste recycling, and the development of novel synthetic biology tools and technologies.
The training programme will support up to 20 early-stage businesses that have already completed their first raise at pre-seed or seed level as they prepare for further private investment. Participants will gain confidence, sharpen their investment propositions, and connect with investors actively seeking opportunities in engineering biology. The initiative is part of the Engineering Biology Innovation Network, led by Innovate UK Business Connect in collaboration with Innovate UK and UKRI’s Technology Mission Fund.
By the end of the programme, SMEs will have developed a high-quality investor-ready pitch deck, a compelling one-page investment summary, and improved skills to pitch in-person and respond to investor questions. They will also gain practical knowledge on approaching investors, new connections with investor networks, and a clearer roadmap for scaling. The programme will culminate with the opportunity to pitch at the Investor Showcase Event on 29 January 2026 in London.
The programme runs from October 2025 to January 2026 and includes both in-person and online sessions. All in-person sessions will be held at Innovate UK Business Connect’s London office, with mandatory attendance required. Optional 1:1 support and online webinars will provide insights into investor appetite, deal sizes, scaling engineering biology businesses, and future funding opportunities.
Applicants must be UK-based SMEs with experience of a first investment raise and a focus on applying engineering biology knowledge and expertise from lab-based discovery towards practical application. Senior-level company representatives are expected to attend, while applications from junior staff members are not advised.
The final Investor Showcase Event will connect selected SMEs with a panel of investors who demonstrate strong interest, experience, and capacity to invest in emerging engineering biology businesses. This is also a key step towards strengthening the UK’s investor community in this field.
For more information, visit Innovate UK.
