Funding Life Sciences: From VC to Non-dilutive Grants
Unlocking Growth: Non-Dilutive Funding for Life Sciences Scale-Up
Presented by the Crick Science Entrepreneur Network (CSEN) and Ayming
Join us for an expert panel discussion exploring how innovative funding strategies, smart banking solutions, and public-private partnerships are reshaping the path from lab bench to market.
Our panel will tackle today’s toughest scale-up challenges — from de-risking private and public investment to financing pre-commercial expansion and achieving the ideal balance of price, quality, and quantity.
We’ll spotlight powerful non-dilutive funding routes, including grants, government-backed lending, blended finance, and evolving private capital models such as venture debt. Hear from top investors and bankers on what drives their decisions and how early signals of customer demand can unlock the next wave of funding opportunities.
Featuring an outstanding lineup of speakers:
Dr Jonathan Memel – Head of Grants, Ayming UK
Expert in major UK grant sources including Innovate UK, DESNZ and Horizon Europe, Jonathan has helped clients win funding from MedTech startups to top construction firms. Formerly co-led Manchester Uni’s research funding team (2nd in UK grant income).
Gautham Shankar – Vice President, Life Sciences and Healthcare Debt Finance, HSBC Innovation Banking
Gautham’s background is in Corporate Banking in Healthcare, with the last 3 years predominantly focused on venture debt/non-dilutive finance for innovative life-sciences/healthcare companies across the venture-backed eco-system from Series A to later-stage companies. Gautham also has experience in completing a variety of deals across the healthcare and life-sciences spectrum – namely in Pre-revenue Biotechs, Medical Device, Health-tech and Diagnostics/Tools.
Robert Hornby – Life Science Investor, Mercia Asset Management
Cristina Bertulli, PhD - Vice President of Business, Exactmer Ltd
A skilled professional with experience in business development, commercialisation of new technologies, scale-up of start-up businesses and R&D project management within the life sciences sector.
Whether you’re a founder, investor, or innovator, this is your chance to gain insider insight into how strategic finance and banking partnerships can fuel sustainable growth across the life sciences ecosystem.
Stay for networking and refreshments after the panel to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, funders, and visionaries shaping the future of UK biotech and health innovation.
Event timings:
5:30 - 6:00pm - Registration
6:00 - 7:00pm - Panel discussion
7:00 - 8:30pm - Networking