It has been a big few months for PlantSea. Now that the headlines are out there, we want to talk more about what this actually means and where it takes us next.
PlantSea has been awarded a €3.5 million project by the European Innovation Council Accelerator to scale our seaweed-based polymer. The funding takes us from lab-scale production to 10,000 litres, and supports the establishment of our first demo biorefinery in North Wales.
What exactly is the EIC Accelerator?
The EIC Accelerator is one of those “if you know, you know” acronyms. It’s one of Europe’s most competitive innovation programmes, designed to back technologies capable of scaling at industrial level.
The process is forensic. Everything PlantSea has done to get this far was pulled apart and examined. After months of review and a final interview in Brussels, PlantSea was awarded the €3.5m project to scale our seaweed-based polymer.
What changes from here
The project funds three things: the move from lab-scale to 10,000 litres, the build of our first demo biorefinery in North Wales, and the transition from research to industrial supply.
It accelerates the work the seed round started. Plastic-free seaweed polymer in the hands of leading film manufacturers, at a price that makes the swap from PVOH an easy commercial decision.
The people behind the win
The EIC win did not happen in isolation. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts to everyone who supported us through the process. In particular, thanks to our investor Huw Bishop, who travelled to Brussels with us, and Zaz Ventures, who have been with us throughout.
Thank you to the team at PlantSea HQ for not just meeting the high standards our customers demand, but exceeding them.
And finally, to our co-founders Rhiannon Rees and Alex Newnes, for the hours, dedication and leadership they continue to invest in turning the tide on plastic, together.
We’re grateful, and we’re ready for the next chapter.
Talk to us
If you’re a film manufacturer or brand owner planning a move away from PVOH, let’s talk. Get in touch with us to arrange a meeting or for to discuss your requirements.