IFS Maven Equity Finance invests in Concinnity Genetics

Concinnity is a recent spinout of the University of Edinburgh and will use the seed funding, totalling £3m, to develop its unique RNA-based gene control system platform. The investment was provided by the Investment Fund for Scotland, managed by Maven, alongside lead investor Eos Advisory and with support from Scottish Enterprise and Old College Capital.

A pioneer for advancements in gene therapy safety and efficacy, Concinnity has developed a proprietary AI platform to rapidly and precisely build novel gene therapy control mechanisms. Its highly modular RNA-based control systems enables precise, post-dosing control of gene therapies, mitigating safety issues seen with first-generation gene therapies and helping to ensure targeted therapeutic activity. This innovative approach represents a significant leap forward in optimising gene therapies, tackling intractable diseases with unprecedented precision to enhance patient outcomes worldwide.

Concinnity was co-founded by bioengineers CEO Jessica Birt and CSO Dr Matthew Dale, both affiliated with Professor Susan Rosser’s world-renowned UK Centre for Mammalian Synthetic Biology at Edinburgh University.

The funding will be used to launch three new programmes developing control systems for key applications in the cell and gene therapy market. It will also support the continued advancement of Concinnity’s existing control systems, gathering critical data to initiate partnerships with potential customers.

“We are so excited to be taking the next step in our spin-out journey and want to sincerely thank all the investors and supporters who have helped us make it happen. Our ambition is to be the go-to partner for gene control to make gene and cell therapies as safe as possible. This commitment from our investors, building on the ongoing support from Scottish Enterprise, speaks to the potential they see in our work, and we look forward to using the funding to further develop our technology.”

Jessica Birt, CEO and Co-founder of Concinnity Genetics

“Concinnity is a great example of the innovative and disruptive businesses that the Investment Fund for Scotland was created to support. Its cutting-edge RNA control systems have the potential to revolutionise gene therapy, further improving the safety and precision of these life-changing treatments. We are proud to support a business that enhances Scotland’s reputation as a leader in synthetic biology while advancing innovative technology with a meaningful impact on global healthcare."

Victoria McLaren, Investment Manager at Maven

"A core goal of the Investment Fund for Scotland is to help high-growth potential spin-outs and early-stage companies access the funding they need to thrive, and we look forward to seeing Concinnity make a tangible impact in this critical area of healthcare.”

Sarah Newbould, Senior Investment Manager at the British Business Bank

This marks one of the latest investments made by IFS Maven Equity Finance, showcasing Maven’s strong track record of identifying and nurturing high potential businesses, as well as the opportunity in Scotland to drive innovation and growth. The Fund has also backed B-Corp accredited water treatment specialist, Scotmas Group, optimisation software, Corporate Modelling Services, 3D printed micro-tumour specialist, Carcinotech, and premium Indian ready meals business, Praveen Kumar.

IFS Maven Equity Finance can provide investment of up to £5 million to support ambitious earlier and later stage businesses across Scotland. If your business, or the business you advise, is looking for an equity investment as a solution to fund future growth, get in touch here.