A new analysis by Dealroom for Founders at the University of Cambridge showed that Cambridge startups and scaleups raised an impressive $2.3 billion in 2024, the second-best year on record and almost double 2023’s $1.2 billion that is great news for the Cambridge region as a whole.
The analysis shows that the “explosion in entrepreneurship across Cambridge means the city is now top globally for the number of Seed companies that mature to Series A, ahead of the Bay Area, Oxford and London.”
The report goes to on to say that: “In recent years, 41% of Cambridge tech companies reached Series A, compared to 40% of startups in the Bay Area and 35% and 33% respectively for Oxford and London. The ROI has increased too: Cambridge startups produce $17.7 in value for every dollar for VC invested, up from $16.9 last year.”
Helen Earl, Centre Manager for The EpiCentre at Haverhill that regularly host start-ups coming out of Cambridge says: “The success of Cambridge is good news for us all and has a knock-on benefit for The EpiCentre.
“At The EpiCentre, we’re dedicated to helping innovative businesses thrive. Our Growth Accelerator Programme offers a comprehensive approach to scaling your business, whether you’re seeking funding, space, or expert support.
“With two unique options to suit your business —the EpiFund to work towards applying for Angel Investment and EpiBoost for cash injections and tailored business support—you’ll have everything you need to take your venture to the next level,” adds Earl.
Earl cites the example of PES Technologies: “The company has successfully secured £1.3 million in pre-Series A funding, marking a significant milestone in their journey to revolutionise soil health monitoring.”
Following their award-winning product launch last year, PES Technologies continues to gain momentum, attracting both new and returning investors. This latest funding round is a testament to the strength of their innovation and the dedication of their team.
Just 15 miles from the centre of Cambridge, The EpiCentre at Haverhill Research Park in Haverhill is run by Oxford Innovation founded by The Oxford Trust to provide support to science, technology, and knowledge-led early-stage companies:
- The largest operator of innovation centres in the UK – with 35 years of experience of running spaces and places to support SMEs and entrepreneurs
- Clients are universities, research and major science site owners, public sector, private investors and charities
- Delivering a range of objectives: support to high-growth SMEs and spin outs, on-going revenue and financial sustainability, economic development, jobs growth, profile, and business engagement
- Access to Beauhurst – a searchable database of the UK’s fastest-growing businesses
- One of the largest Angel Investment Networks in the UK
- Access to active investors who can add value to early-stage companies, in addition to capital
- Seven investment showcase events every year so that selected companies can meet potential investors
- Access to support and tools from Oxford Innovation Finance
The EpiCentre, provides laboratory and office space as well as meeting and conference rooms, with an on-site café and ample parking space on site. It is now over 70% full with 40 companies in occupation.
To find out more about Office Space | The EpiCentre | Haverhill, Cambridge (epicentrehaverhill.co.uk)
To find out more about Lab Space | The EpiCentre | Haverhill, Cambridge (epicentrehaverhill.co.uk)
To find out more about Our Members | The EpiCentre | Haverhill, Cambridge (epicentrehaverhill.co.uk)
To find out more about Business Support | EpiCentre | Cambridge, Haverhill (epicentrehaverhill.co.uk)
