From Vision to Venture: CFT's Pioneering First Quarter
Cambridge Future Tech (CFT) stands as a pillar in the DeepTech sector, with its dedication to groundbreaking academic and corporate research. Their unique approach as a technology-first venture builder has enabled them to carve a distinct path in commercialising scientific discoveries and technical innovations across a broad spectrum of areas including Digital (AI, Data) and Physical sciences (Semiconductors, Materials, Quantum, Robotics).
The first quarter of 2024 has been particularly eventful for CFT. They have achieved significant milestones in expanding their network and influence within the UK's technological and academic landscape. The strategic formalisation of relationships with 18 different strategic, academic, and government technology transfer offices (TTOs), and advanced discussions with research labs at five leading corporate partners highlight CFT's proactive engagement in fostering innovation. The addition of Lucie and Josh to the analyst team, coupled with the formation of a new communications team, has strengthened their operational capabilities, contributing to their shortlisting for a number of awards.
CFT's consulting practice has continued to gain momentum, with the research team identifying 91 new deal-flow candidates since the start of the year. Their dynamic engagement in various events, including learning sessions with the Red Arrows, participation in CVC Unplugged in Monterey, finalist presentations at Hello Tomorrow in Paris, and strategic meetings in Zurich, demonstrates their commitment not just to innovation but also learning and collaborating at a global level.
A look into their venture news reveals an exciting array of developments:
The successful conduct of their first London Pitch Event in February, highlighting eight pioneering DeepTech ventures from their portfolio.
Literal Labs' rebranding from Mignon AI, alongside a new Innovate UK grant pushing their total grants to $590k.
Gitlife Biotech's formation of significant partnerships and team expansion.
Mimicrete's award to pilot and test on Phase 2 of the Global Centre Of Rail Excellence program.
NeuroXR's patent grant and the development of working demos tailored to different market segments.
Watch the CFT Pitch Event video
CFT's approach is not just about building ventures but also about integrating them into a broader ecosystem that includes corporate partnerships, SPVs (Special Purpose Vehicles) like Outfield Technologies, and engaging with the DeepTech community at large.
As CFT looks forward to building on their successes, they remain focused on addressing the world's most pressing challenges through DeepTech innovation, emphasising their commitment to tackling issues in ClimateTech, DeepTech, and AI. Their goal to co-found over 40 tech-first companies in the next five years, while expanding their venture-building-as-a-service to more corporate partners, reflects a bright and ambitious future for both CFT and the sectors they aim to transform.
For more detailed insights into Cambridge Future Tech's journey and their plans for the future, you can visit their website or the Cambridge Science Park's page dedicated to them.