Welcome back to the Cambridge Tech Podcast, the go-to show for all things tech from the heart of the UK’s innovation capital. This week, Faye Holland and James Parton take us through some of the biggest headlines in the Cambridge startup scene and sit down with key players shaping the future of tech and investment. If you’re a founder, investor, or just passionate about cutting-edge innovation, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!
Cambridge Tech News Round-Up:
Trimtech Therapeutics secures a $31 million oversubscribed seed round. Led by Cambridge Innovation Capital, the round also saw participation from SV Health Investors, M Ventures, and Pfizer Ventures. Trimtech is pioneering targeted protein degradation to treat neurodegenerative diseases.
Jagex, the iconic Cambridge-based gaming company, announces John Bellamy as the new CEO, succeeding Phil Mansell. Bellamy brings global strategic expertise and a deep understanding of RuneScape, a franchise with over 300 million player accounts.
Cambridge Innovation Capital takes venture builder Start Codon under its management, following a successful investment period that raised over £50 million for its portfolio.
University of Cambridge Careers Office
James caught up with Emily Stoner, Careers Consultant at the University of Cambridge Careers Office, to discuss the growing interest in entrepreneurship among students and researchers.
Key Takeaways:
There has been a significant increase in students considering startups and entrepreneurship as viable career paths over the last four years.
Cambridge’s entrepreneurial ecosystem continues to expand, offering mentorship programmes, venture labs, and competitions that support startup growth.
Events like the ‘Working for a Startup’ panel provide direct networking opportunities for students to meet founders and VCs in the Cambridge ecosystem.
“It’s a line of sight thing—if I can see it, I can do it.” – Emily Stoner
#21toWatch: The Future of Cambridge Innovation
One of the biggest events in the Cambridge startup calendar, 21toWatch, celebrates emerging talent across People, Companies, and Things. This year, the list is dominated by advances in neuroscience, medtech, and AI-driven diagnostics.
Notable Winners
People:
Lucy Jung – Founder of LYEONS Neurotech, developing innovative solutions for neurological conditions.
Jonathan Fisher – CEO of Peter, a device helping Parkinson’s patients regain mobility.
Companies:
Bioscopic – Harnessing infant gut bacteria for medical breakthroughs.
Everalis – Pioneering enzyme technology for textile and plastic recycling.
Things:
Lambda Agri – Sustainable greenhouse tech increasing crop yields by 20%.
Vipercore – Developing energy-efficient data centre chips that reduce power usage by 80%.
“We do need more people engaged with us to take this journey, to actually make a huge impact.” – Lucy Young, Lions Neurotech
Why You Should Tune In
If you’re looking to stay ahead in the Cambridge startup ecosystem, this episode is a must-listen. Whether it's investment news, career opportunities, or disruptive innovation, Cambridge Tech Podcast keeps you informed and inspired. Subscribe now and never miss an episode: Cambridge Tech Podcast. Join the conversation: What are your thoughts on this year’s 21 to Watch winners? Connect with us on LinkedIn and let us know!
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