uFraction8, a Scottish biotech firm specialising in microfiltration technology, has successfully raised £3.4 million in a funding round led by Foresight Group.

This investment is complemented by support from various entities, including the Polish Agency for Enterprise Development (PARP) and the University of Edinburgh’s venture fund, Old College Capital.

Founded by Dr Brian Miller and Dr Monika Tomecka, uFraction8 is based in Falkirk, Scotland, with a subsidiary in Poznan, Poland.

The company’s innovative microfiltration technology is designed to optimise the production of cells and biomass, offering a sustainable and energy-efficient alternative to traditional methods used in the food, feed and bio-based product sectors.

This technology aims to enhance scalability and affordability in bioprocessing, addressing significant challenges within the global biotech landscape.

The funding round also attracted investment from Scottish Enterprise, Alwyn Capital and Thia Ventures, indicating strong confidence in uFraction8's potential to disrupt existing processes in the biotech field.

The funds raised will be directed towards the commercialisation of uFraction8’s technology, which was initially developed at the University of Edinburgh’s School of Engineering.

The microalgae and biopharma markets are particularly promising, with projections indicating growth to $3 billion and over $30 billion, respectively, by 2030. This investment will facilitate advancements in microalgae production processes, potentially reducing costs and increasing efficiency in product manufacturing.

Tomecka said: “We’re thrilled to have secured this significant investment, which will drive forward this next stage of our growth. The support from our investors is a testament to the impact and potential of our innovative technology."

"These funds will ensure we can bring our solutions to market more rapidly, particularly the microalgae and bio-separation within biopharma sectors, and enable Fraction8 to continue its innovation within the alternative protein sector.”

Rubina Singh, senior investment manager at Foresight, highlighted the transformative potential of uFraction8’s continuous bioprocessing technology and its implications for multiple industries. She noted that Foresight is committed to supporting pioneering technologies that align with sustainable development goals.

Kerry Sharp, director of entrepreneurship and investment at Scottish Enterprise, added: "The biotech industry is a key opportunity area for growth for Scotland. Companies such as uFraction8 can play a vital role in transforming our economy by scaling-up, creating high value jobs and competing internationally”.