IFS Maven Equity Finance invests in Concinnity Genetics

Edinburgh University spinout, Concinnity Genetics, a gene control company, has successfully raised £3 million in a seed funding round led by Eos Advisory with support from Scottish Enterprise, Old College Capital (OCC), the University of Edinburgh’s in house venture investment fund, and IFS Maven Equity Finance.

Concinnity is developing an AI-driven RNA design platform to rapidly and predictably build gene control systems for use in cell and gene therapies. Genetic disease is caused by an alteration in an individual’s DNA, often inherited or sometimes occurring spontaneously. Genetic diseases and mutations (such as cystic fibrosis, muscular dystrophy, sickle cell disease, cancers and late-onset Alzheimer’s) are debilitating and often life threatening. 

A pioneer for advancements in gene therapy safety and efficacy, the business has developed a proprietary AI platform and synthetic biology expertise. Its highly modular RNA-based control systems enable precise, post-dosing control of gene therapies, mitigating off-target effects and ensuring targeted therapeutic activity. This innovative approach represents a significant leap forward in tackling intractable diseases with unprecedented precision, enhancing patient outcomes worldwide.

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

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 Genetics represents the spirit of innovation that the Investment Fund for Scotland was created to support. Their cutting-edge RNA control systems have the potential to revolutionise gene therapy, improving safety and precision in 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

This marks the tenth investment made by IFS Maven Equity Finance, showcasing Maven’s strong track record of identifying and nurturing high potential businesses, and 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, 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.