Norwich Research Park recently brought together a diverse group of founders, investors, and partners for its inaugural Meet the Funder event. Attendees engaged with inspiring pitches, thoughtful discussions, and a panel Q&A session, all aimed at highlighting the region’s growing innovation ecosystem.
In partnership with the British Business Bank, the event showcased five Norwich Research Park-based companies, and an experienced panel of Venture funds and Angle Investors. More than 50 participants from the science, business, and investment communities attended
“The first time I visited Norwich Research Park, I realised there is a wealth of opportunity here. We are genuinely excited by its potential,” commented Sandy Reid, Mercia Ventures.
Showcasing Science-Driven Innovation
The morning began with a welcome from Sam Graham, Enterprise Network Manager at Anglia Innovation Partnership, followed by remarks from Paul Sullivan of the British Business Bank and an update on the Park’s enterprise strategy from Nick Goodwin, Chief Operating Officer at Anglia Innovation Partnership.
Five Norwich Research Park companies then took to the stage to share how their discoveries and ideas are addressing global challenges in health, food, and environmental sustainability:
- Hothouse Therapeutics – unlocking complex natural compounds for drug discovery using AI and synthetic biology.
- Cellexcel – replacing PFAS “forever chemicals” in packaging with a novel cellulose-binding additive.
- QuberTech – producing natural rubber from engineered dandelions grown indoors.
- Alora – pioneering ocean agriculture to create climate-resilient food production.
- Virilitas Labs – advancing diagnostics and therapeutics for male reproductive health.
The pitches reflected the campus expertise in agri-tech, biotech, sustainability, and health, and demonstrated how these businesses are ready to make an impact beyond the region.
Investors signal strong appetite for the region
During a series of 10-minute meet-the-funder pitches, five national and regional investors shared their investment strategies and explained why they are looking beyond the traditional Golden Triangle.
- Mercia Ventures emphasised founder-first investing and a desire to build a stronger presence in the East of England.
- Deepbridge Capital highlighted its track record of backing university spinouts and early-stage science companies.
- Foresight Group spoke about its long-term, sustainable investment model and its recent first investment in Norwich.
- Future Planet Capital outlined its focus on global impact and science-led innovation.
- Andrea Finegan, representing Anglia Capital Group, shared insights from 15 years of angel investing in the region.
Ben Carter, Deepbridge Capital, said, “There is fantastic domain expertise here, backed by wonderful facilities.”
A panel discussion, chaired by the British Business Bank, explored the region’s unique strengths and the anticipated impact of the forthcoming East of England Investment Fund (EEIF). Investors agreed the fund could unlock co-investment and accelerate growth.
“We’ve been out here talking to lots of start-up about what’s needed in the region… and we’re very excited about what we’ve seen.” commented Sandy Reid, Mercia Ventures.
The event concluded with a series of 33 one-to-one meetings between founders and investors, sparking new connections and collaboration opportunities.
With new facilities, funding opportunities, and partnerships emerging, Norwich Research Park is ready to nurture the next generation of pioneering ventures, helping to shape solutions for a healthier, more sustainable world.
If you’d like to join our thriving community, explore collaboration, or discover more about our enterprise support, reach out to the Anglia Innovation Partnership team via email at enterprise@nrp.dev.assemblystudios.co.uk.
To view the full gallery of images from the event, please visit our Event Gallery page.
