Scottish biotech companies will be able to access specialist facilities, equipment and resources thanks to the launch of a new funding scheme.

Led by the Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Centre (IBioIC), the Facilities Access Fund will allow biotech firms to apply for grants of up to £10,000 to support critical research and development projects.

The scheme has been specifically designed to ease and encourage access to Scottish university-based facilities that are critical to the development of new bio-based processes and materials.

Liz Fletcher, director of business engagement at IBioIC, believes the fund will be crucial in supporting Scottish biotech companies and the broader sector.

She said: “By enabling companies to access the unique and world class facilities, equipment and expertise across Scotland’s universities that are critical to research and development, we can help to expand Scotland’s bioeconomy as we head towards 2045 net-zero targets.

“Developing bio-based alternatives represents an important step in our move away from petrochemicals and carbon intensive feedstocks and will make manufacturing much more sustainable across a range of sectors.

“This fund is designed to support companies looking to unlock these opportunities by leveraging local assets.”

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Projects eligible for the funding scheme must be led by an industrial partner and can cover a range of biotechnology applications such as biorefining, food and drink, biomanufacturing, waste management, textiles and agritech.

Companies seeking to access the fund are encouraged to contact IBioIC to discuss their application in the first instance, before having their submission assessed on its economic contribution, technical viability, and additional benefits for Scotland such as job creation or environmental impact.

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