Life Sciences case study: Science Creates

Building a UK-wide ecosystem for deep tech innovation

Founded in 2015 by deep tech entrepreneurs seeking to address the resource challenges of scaling startups, Science Creates has grown into a robust ecosystem dedicated to nurturing and empowering deep tech startups across the UK. The organisation's focus is on driving improvements in both human and planetary health through a network of specialised incubators, a venture capital firm, and comprehensive support structures such as training programmes, events, and a strong community of collaborators. In addition, Science Creates operates a STEM outreach charity to engage the next generation of innovators.

Key achievements

Since its inception, Science Creates has made significant strides in building a dynamic and successful deep tech community. Key achievements include:

Supporting over 125 startups

To date, Science Creates has supported more than 125 deep tech startups. These span various industries with a focus on innovations that improve human health, planetary sustainability, and other key global challenges.

Job creation and economic contribution

The environment supports over 370 jobs and contributes a gross annual Gross Value Added (GVA) of £125 million to the UK economy. This demonstrates Science Creates' role in strengthening the deep tech sector and its broader economic impact.

Securing investment

In 2023, startups within the Science Creates network secured more than £28 million in funding. By the first half of 2024, the community had raised over £33 million in investments, reflecting the growing confidence of investors in the organisation’s vision and startups’ potential.

Awards and recognition

Member companies garnered 26 awards in 2023, recognising their pioneering work in human and planetary health. Such accolades underscore the innovative breakthroughs being driven by Science Creates-supported startups.

Development of deep tech incubators

Science Creates has successfully designed and launched two deep tech incubators in Bristol—Saint Philips and Old Market—providing world-class facilities for startups. A third incubator, OMX, is set to open in 2025, expanding their physical footprint.

Launch of a venture capital firm

In 2021, Science Creates established SCVC to provide targeted funding for deep tech startups from pre-seed to Series A. SCVC announced the first close of its second fund in 2023, aiming to raise $100 million, and was named Emerging VC of the Year. As of 2024, SCVC manages over $60 million in assets and supports 15 ground-breaking deep tech startups.

Launch of Engineering Biology accelerator

In partnership with UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), Science Creates launched a national Engineering Biology Accelerator programme in 2023. The inaugural cohort of 23 graduates led to the formation of 19 new companies in 2023, with the 2024 accelerator leading to 16 companies being founded. The continued success of the accelerator further unlocks funding and expands collaboration with leading global venture capital firms.

Notable innovations

Scarlet Therapeutics, a member of the Science Creates community, achieved a world-first in pioneering laboratory-cultivated blood transfusions in clinical trials—demonstrating the kind of high-impact innovation that defines the ecosystem.

Image credit: Science Creates

Future plans

Science Creates has ambitious plans to expand its reach and influence. Key elements of its future growth strategy include:

Opening a third deep tech incubator: Opening in 2025, OMX is Science Creates' new deep tech incubator in central Bristol, backed by the University of Bristol and Research England. With £8.5m in funding, the 30,000 sq. ft facility will increase Science Creates' infrastructure by over 65%, providing essential R&D space for startups in quantum and biotech fields. OMX will address the growing need for larger labs and offices, expanding Science Creates' total incubator space to 75,000 sq. ft and supporting more startups in the South West.
Scaling the VC arm: SCVC aims to close its second deep tech fund at $100 million, enabling it to further support category-defining startups through increased capital and investment resources.
Building a national ecosystem: Science Creates is building a UK-wide, founder-led ecosystem that nurtures thousands of startups—connecting innovators, investors and academics across the country to drive deep tech innovations.
Growing the training offer: After the successful running of two Engineering Biology accelerators, Science Creates will continue to grow its training offer through more training programmes, events, resources and new partnerships to support the growth of the deep tech community.