Case Study
Biomara
BioMara is an Edinburgh-based biotechnology startup founded in 2022, specializing in the extraction of bioactive ingredients from sustainably sourced Scottish seaweed. The company has developed a proprietary, water-based extraction process that preserves the bioactivity of fucoidan — a compound known for its health benefits—while also producing a high-fiber ingredient from the remaining biomass.
To date, BioMara has secured over £1.1 million in funding, comprising more than £520,000 in private investment and over £600,000 in non-dilutive grants, including support from Innovate UK. This funding is facilitating the company’s efforts to scale up production, conduct clinical research, and expand its product offerings in the food, nutraceutical, and cosmetic sectors.
“Our first hire was a critical appointment. Creating exciting products fromSeaweed is an emerging market with phenomenal potential. I engagedwith STEM to appoint a Technical Director. The person would level up theInnovate UK funded project with the University of Abertay and beresponsible for building a new laboratory in Edinburgh and begin to accelerate the research towards commercialisation.
When researching the potential of seaweed I had travelled extensively andconnected with so many experts within this small industry. Naturally, Iwanted to attract the best talent.
STEM were very consultative, they understood the market and gavemyself confidence that they could communicate with candidates to sellthe opportunity effectively. Their extensive experience and sciencebackround managed my expectations and built trust. The partnership andthe appointment was a success.
The team has grown in the last few years, we are received Blue EarthBE100 recognition, have received 2 private equity investments, somegrants and 3 fucoidan products on the market.”
Jay Dignan, CEO @ Biomara
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