The Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Centre (IBioIC) welcomed more than 100 new members to its network in 2024, reflecting the ongoing growth of Scotland’s bio economy.

IBioIC now has more than 300 members, with start-ups Vaste and Seastex recently joining the group and helping to push its network past the milestone figure. Access to the innovation centre’s network can help businesses with scale-up expertise, facilities and funding opportunities for proof-of-concept studies, with biotechnology helping to create more sustainable materials and products through the use of bio-based alternatives.

As well as support for start-ups, IBioIC bridges the gap between industry and Scotland’s academic expertise, with research support, skills development programmes, and access to bioprocess scale-up facilities – FlexBio.

One of IBioIC’s newest members, Edinburgh-based Vaste, is developing an online procurement platform to connect suppliers of biomass feedstock, such as agricultural residues, forestry by-products and organic waste, with industrial buyers that can integrate these feedstocks into their operations.

In response to the growing demand for sustainable raw materials and low-carbon alternatives, Vaste is helping companies decarbonise by ensuring a consistent and reliable supply of biomass feedstock, supporting the transition away from petrochemical-based materials.

Evans Chelal, founder and chief executive of Vaste, said: “We are passionate about transforming the biomass feedstock market through the UK’s first trading and analytics platform. Our commitment to the bio-based industries is clear: to provide access to consistent, high-quality feedstock and deliver real-time market insights on feedstock availability and pricing.

Joining the IBioIC network and becoming part of Scotland’s biotech cluster has come at the perfect time as we seek collaboration opportunities to help businesses decarbonise on an industrial scale. I’m truly grateful for the warmth and generosity of the IBioIC team and I’m looking forward to connecting with other members at the conference in March.”

Another recent addition to the network is Seastex, a start-up that is transforming by-products from Scotland’s shellfish sector into a biodegradable textile it calls “sea-wool”. Made from mussel beards, or byssus – the elastic threads that help mussels attach to solid surfaces – the material is recyclable, lightweight and naturally fire-resistant. It has applications in construction, such as soundproofing panels, as well as other industries.

Sander Nevejans, chief executive at Seastex, said: “We’re already seeing the benefits of joining IBioIC as we set our sights on scaling up and broadening our impact. The network’s resources and access to facilities like FlexBio will be invaluable in helping us take our products to the next level. It’s also been great to connect with others in the biotech space who share our vision for turning waste into something valuable and sustainable.”

Since 2014, IBioIC has played a key role in the growth of Scotland’s industrial biotechnology sector, helping to attract £35 million in additional funding for research and development. Other members supported by the organisation include Diageo, Glasgow Science Centre, and Scottish Water.

The innovation centre is set to host its 11th annual conference at Glasgow’s Technology and Innovation Centre on 12 and 13 March. Speakers include Lord Vallance, minister of state for science, research, and innovation, and Dr Rita Cruz, head of molecular biology at Ingenza.

Dr Liz Fletcher, director of business engagement at IBioIC, added: “Reaching 300 members is a fantastic milestone and reflects the growing strength of Scotland’s industrial biotechnology community.

Our network is all about fostering collaboration and providing the tools and backing that companies need to scale up and make a real impact, and we’re excited to see what the future holds for Vaste, Seastex, and all of our members.”