Discovery Park launches ‘Discovery Spark’ start-up competition

Discovery Park, the leading science and innovation precinct in Sandwich, Kent, has launched a new business support program and competition, ‘Discovery Spark’.

The program aims to lay the foundation for future company success and equip early-stage life science businesses with the skills they need to become investors.

The eight-week free, hybrid program aims to ignite the best of Discovery Park’s facilities, people and network. Delivered over four individual sessions, as well as mentoring, networking and group learning, sessions will cover teams, cohesive communications, financials, market impact and pitch preparation, all ending with drill pitches at Discovery Park.

Discovery Spark is currently accepting applications from life-science start-ups with a deadline of August 20. From the first group of 12 companies, one business will be selected to win a prize package worth over £100,000, including a £50,000 investment from Discovery Park Ventures, free lab space for a year at Discovery Park, as well as a wrap-up Around Business support is included. and dedicated guidance.

Renos Savva, Cambridge-based drug discovery CRO, original founder of Domenex and now head of innovation at Discovery Park, said: “Discovery Spark is a must-have for all future leaders who want to audit and excel in business and win investment want to improve your skills. You’ll also have unparalleled access to a new network of industry analysts, experienced leaders and executive coaches, as well as peer entrepreneurs for advice and support.

“The benefits will go even further for one company chosen to win a £50,000 investment, as well as a year of free lab space at Discovery Park. This special award also includes professional support from Barclays Eagle Labs and pro bono support from firms specializing in IP & Legal, Finance & Tax, Talent & Board Management, Marketing & PR, and Web & Data Management. In addition, as an experienced Bio-Business Facilitator and Mentor, I will provide dedicated and ongoing mentorship alongside other expert colleagues at Discovery Park.

Discovery Park CEO Meyer Schreiber said: “Discovery Park is the ideal environment for companies to start and grow, with a thriving incubator community and room to grow. We understand the pressure of finding lab space and the difficulties many scaling or spin-out companies face, so Discovery Spark is an important reflection of our commitment to using our facilities and network to strengthen the next generation of life science leaders Is.

Those selected for the program will have the opportunity to lobby for a £50,000 investment and support package at an investment conference sponsored by Discovery Park in London in November. Another ‘wildcard’ award of free lab space will also be available to event participants and will be voted on by attendees.

For more information applicants should register their interest on the Discovery Spark page.

Major Biospark Dates:

• Last Date of Application: midnight 20 August 2023
• Program Begins: September 26

To enter, companies must have been incorporated in the UK, demonstrated a proof of concept and have the freedom to operate, with the ultimate goal of pitching their business concept to a panel of investors, industry experts and partners to secure the award. must offer.

Full details of the entry and prize requirements are included in Discovery Spark.