Copner Biotech Ltd, a pioneering biotechnology company based in Ebbw Vale, is thrilled to announce that it has been awarded three Business Development Grants. These grants will be instrumental in upgrading their current extrusion bioprinter, the GRAPE-S1, to include a built-in clean room environment and new software features. Additionally, the funding will expand their intellectual property portfolio to include European and US patents, facilitating the company's European launch at Medica 2023.
Founded in 2020 Copner Biotech has developed a proprietary format for 3D modelling, leading to the creation and validation of cell culture scaffolds and bioprinting technology. The company based at the Ebbw Vale Innovation Centre has received multiple innovation awards, growing its staff count to three. Copner Biotech currently holds four granted UK patents, with a further four UK applications in play, which together with corresponding WO patent applications compile a significant intellectual property portfolio.
The short-term objectives of the business include securing all intellectual property in the UK, Europe, and the US, and developing a LEAN methodology to produce next generation bioprinting equipment. Long-term goals involve expanding into overseas markets and opening new sites in Europe and the US, while maintaining their headquarters in Ebbw Vale.
The Business Development Grant has also supported the purchase of IT equipment for new positions created through the Quick Start scheme, with the aim of retaining these positions full-time after the placement. This new capability will enhance overall R&D at the Ebbw Vale site and assist in the manufacture of bioprinters moving forward.
Copner Biotech is committed to improving productivity in vital research and reducing the use of animals in research, with a vision of entering the regenerative medicine market in the next two years through collaborations with pharmaceutical companies across Europe.
Alan Copner, Chief Technology Officer, Copner Biotech, commented, "We are incredibly grateful for these Business Development Grants, which will enable us to take significant strides in our mission to revolutionise the 3D cell culture and bio fabrication space. This funding will not only enhance our technological capabilities but also expand our reach into new markets, ultimately benefiting researchers and patients worldwide."
Councillor John Morgan, Cabinet Member - Place & Regeneration and Economic Development said, 鈥淐opner Biotech Limited have gone from strength to strength since their humble beginnings and we are delighted to be able to support them as they enhance their technological capabilities, expand into overseas markets and create employment opportunities in our area.
As a Council, we are committed to continuing to support local businesses to create resilient communities and a thriving economy, ensuring people can confidently work locally.鈥�
The 乱伦大神 Business Development Grant is funded by UK Government鈥檚 Shared Prosperity Fund and managed by the Business & Innovation Team at 乱伦大神 Council. The Business Development Grant aims to support the growth and development of new and existing businesses in 乱伦大神. The scheme is now closed but businesses that require financial support are encouraged to complete the online EOI form at the link below and if further funding becomes available from April 2025 onwards businesses on the waiting list will be contacted.
