RevoNA Bio creates new disease protection aimed at reducing chemical treatments in agriculture
A Walsall-based biotech start-up developing revolutionary plant and animal disease protection is among seven firms joining a government-backed incubator programme aimed at transforming scientific innovation into commercial success.
RevoNA Bio is creating new disease protection methods designed to reduce reliance on chemical treatments in agriculture, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional approaches.
The company joins the DeepTech Catalyst Biotech Incubator, a partnership between the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) and the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC).
Each of the seven firms to receive £90,000
The cohort also includes Oshun Labs, developing seaweed-derived products for menopausal women; GutSee Health, using AI and virus-based therapies for wound infections; and Grouse Fibres, converting surplus milk into soil-improving fibres.
Each company is set to receive £90,000 of support, including research funding, specialist facilities, technical advice and business mentoring at locations including BBSRC’s Rothamsted Campus, Aber Innovation in Aberystwyth and STFC’s Daresbury Laboratory.
‘British science is among the best in the world’
Science Minister Lord Vallance said: “British science is among the best in the world. Turning our research strength into businesses that bring innovation to market, we can ensure our science sector continues to lead the field while also improving lives and creating new jobs.
“From supporting women through menopause to making farming more sustainable, these innovations use our homegrown scientific talent to tackle real problems and unlock benefits for communities across the country.”
Paul Vernon, STFC’s Executive Director of Business and Innovation, said: “The UK is a world leader in scientific discovery, but impact comes when that science improves everyday life.
“These start-ups are using biotechnology to tackle problems that matter to all of us, from health to sustainability. Through the Biotech Incubator and STFC’s Deep Tech Catalyst, we are providing the R&D facilities, expertise and connections start-ups need to overcome barriers and turn innovation into real-world impact.”
‘230 UK start-ups backed since 2011’
Each company can access support worth up to £90,000, including research funding, specialist facilities, technical advice and business mentoring. The businesses will be based at BBSRC’s Rothamsted Campus in Hertfordshire, Aber Innovation in Aberystwyth, and STFC’s Daresbury Laboratory in the Liverpool City Region.
The incubator forms part of the wider Deep Tech Catalyst network, which since 2011 has backed more than 230 UK start-ups. These have raised over £300 million in private investment, created around 1,100 high-skilled jobs and delivered an estimated £25 economic return for every £1 invested.
