Innovation is never just about technology or data—it’s about people. In 2024, The EpiCentre community demonstrated how connections between individuals, ideas, and opportunities can drive growth and global progress. From start-up founders to seasoned investors, scientists, and policy-makers, every milestone during 2024 reflects the power of human connectivity in shaping a better future.
Bridging Disciplines
Some of the most meaningful connections happen when disciplines intersect. When Lord Robert Winston visited The EpiCentre this year, his reflections on the societal role of science inspired thought-provoking conversations among the entrepreneurs, researchers, and policy-makers at The EpiCentre. These discussions, spanning education, sustainability, and biotechnology, exemplified how innovation flourishes when people with diverse perspectives “put their heads together”.
Among those inspired by this exchange was KluraLabsTM, whose work pushes the boundaries of infection control. And, at COP29, the 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference, the KluraLabsTM team launched partnerships to bring their antimicrobial solutions into textiles and announced their FDA-approved medical gloves for the EU. They also introduced the Louvre+ Chair which is made from ocean-bound plastic and designed to kill 99.99% of bacteria—a testament to how connecting sustainability and healthcare can create a brighter future in real-world applications.
Growth Through Connection
For Expression Edits, connection to the right space and community was key to their growth. A spin-out from the University of Cambridge laboratories, Expression Edits joined The EpiCentre in 2022 when space in Cambridge was scarce. Over the next two years, they developed their game-changing EdEx Engine, a machine-learning platform designed to optimise transgene expression—technology that could revolutionise DNA medicine and biotechnology.
But their story isn’t just about innovation; it’s about people connecting to make their ‘graduation’ into bigger labs happen. Supported by the resources and network at The EpiCentre, their team of ten worked tirelessly to bring their vision to life. Now, as they move out into larger laboratories, they are ready to scale their work and deliver life-changing solutions to the world!
The Path to Market
For start-ups, connection to the market can be the hardest step. PES Technologies reached this critical milestone in 2024, commercialising their soil health measurement solution. It’s a victory for their team—and for The EpiCentre, which continues to support entrepreneurs on their journey from idea to impact with the business support and a workspace they need to make a difference to business growth and success.
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Diversity Drives Innovation
The people who took space The EpiCentre in 2024 reflect a wide range of expertise and perspectives, from life sciences to agriculture, and many more. Clients like Richardsons, Certus, EDR Technology, Theatredor, and Analytic Jena demonstrate that creativity thrives when different voices come together.
The year marked a significant step forward for female Angel Investors within The EpiCentre’s community, breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated spaces. Hosting a live pitching event for female-founded businesses aligned perfectly with The EpiCentre’s mission—not just to provide flexible workspace, but to actively support companies on their growth journeys. Investment finance is crucial for scaling any business, and by creating opportunities for female founders to connect with potential investors, The EpiCentre aims to drive more funding into their ventures. The ultimate goal? To foster a cycle of success, with more female entrepreneurs achieving impactful business exits.
Innovation Without Borders
The EpiCentre’s presence at Slush, the world’s leading tech event, underscored the importance of global connectivity in driving progress. Entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators from around the world gathered to tackle shared challenges, from sustainability to healthcare. For The EpiCentre community, Slush was a reminder that innovation knows no borders—and that the solutions of tomorrow are born from connections made today. SKC Games Studio, based at The EpiCentre, had the opportunity, supported by Connected Innovation and Tech East, to attend Slush, and showcase their innovative new product, 1956 individuals.
Looking Ahead
The milestones of 2024 weren’t just achievements for businesses—they were victories for the people who make them possible. As we look to the future, The EpiCentre will continue to connect individuals, ideas, and opportunities, creating a space where innovation thrives and lives are changed.
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