Northern Gritstone

Northern Gritstone is an independent investment company dedicated to fostering the growth of innovative businesses in the North of England. Established with the support of the Universities of Manchester, Leeds, and Sheffield, the firm focuses on commercializing science and technology ventures that originate from these institutions and the broader region. By providing funding and strategic support, Northern Gritstone aims to transform research and intellectual property into successful, high-impact enterprises.

The company's investment strategy centers on sectors such as deep technology and life sciences, including areas like semiconductor design, novel materials, secure computing, artificial intelligence, health technology, and gene therapies. Northern Gritstone seeks to partner with visionary teams possessing strong intellectual property and the ambition to make a positive global impact. Their approach encompasses supporting companies from early stages through to later growth phases, emphasizing long-term partnerships that deliver both attractive returns and societal benefits.

Since its inception, Northern Gritstone has built a diverse portfolio of companies, including QV Bioelectronics, Opteran, Simanalytica, Imperagen, Silveray, Crucible Therapeutics, Iceotope, Mimetrik, AssetCool, Optalysys, Floreon, Pragmatic Semiconductor, Pencil Biosciences, adsilico, Phagenesis, Cavero Quantum, MicroLub, Exciting Instruments, Partful, Re:course, Auxetec, Phlux Technology, Bettering Our Worlds (BOW), and Apini Therapeutics. The firm operates under the philosophy of 'profit with purpose,' aiming to deliver attractive returns to shareholders while contributing positively to the economic and societal development of the North of England.

Northern Gritstone's commitment to responsible investment is evident through its adherence to the United Nations Principles for Responsible Investment. The firm integrates environmental, social, and corporate governance considerations into its investment analysis and decision-making processes, actively promoting these principles within the investment industry. This dedication underscores Northern Gritstone's role as a catalyst for innovation and economic growth in the North of England, striving to create a 'Silicon Valley of the North' by nurturing and scaling high-potential businesses that emerge from the region's esteemed academic institutions.