Cambridge Enterprise, the research commercialisation arm of the University of Cambridge, marked its 15th anniversary with a remarkable series of achievements.
Cambridge Enterprise’s contribution to the UK economy through innovation is part of the wider financial impact of the University of Cambridge – which, according to a recent London Economics report, contributes almost £30 billion to the UK economy. Over 77% of this total contribution is the result of commercialisation of knowledge transfer activities.
Last year Cambridge Enterprise returned over £20 million to the University and its departments – supporting the development of an entrepreneurial culture and re-investing in research and education. The scale of these returns affirms the crucial role of Cambridge Enterprise in fuelling innovation on behalf of the University, and demonstrates the overall success of Cambridge Enterprise’s activity.
With 304 patent applications filed, 144 licences executed, a record 441 consultancy contracts signed, and a seed fund portfolio valuation at an all-time high of £124 million, Cambridge Enterprise is helping the University deliver real impact.
Other standout moments for Cambridge Enterprise this year include:
- The acquisition of portfolio company Gyroscope Therapeutics – a company Cambridge Enterprise has supported since its initial IP disclosure – by Novartis Pharmaceuticals for an impressive sum of up to $1.5 billion.
- £50 million Series B funding round secured by portfolio company Nyobolt, propelling the company’s mission in sustainable energy storage, and scaling up manufacturing operations.
- A new Commercialisation of Research out of Social Science (CRoSS) initiative in partnership with the University’s Social Sciences Impact team, funded by the UKRI Economic and Social Research Council, inspiring novel approaches to social sciences commercialisation.
- The ongoing success of DigiVis, an innovative software to self-administer eye tests and improve medical support for eye care, the copyright of which was licensed by Cambridge Enterprise to Cambridge Medical Innovation Limited.
- Ongoing work to tackling the innovation gap needed to achieve Net Zero with a newly launched Sustainability Initiative, as part of the University’s leadership on and commitment to Net Zero.
- A total of £10.6 million invested in 34 spin outs in the last financial year.
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