University of Warwick: Midlands universities aim to raise £250m investment for startups in the region

Plans to raise up to £250 million to boost startup growth in the Midlands have been announced today.

Midlands Mindforge Limited, co-founded by the University of Warwick, along with seven other universities*, aims to secure significant private investment to support early-stage businesses across the region.

The ambitious plan will involve raising funds from strategic corporate partners, institutional investors and qualifying individuals, with the money used to help transform cutting-edge science and technology into successful businesses with real-world impact.

New investment will also be used to support skills, build capabilities, and create jobs across the region, particularly in life sciences, computer science and health technology.

The University of Warwick already plays a key role in driving innovation and supporting new businesses within the West Midlands.

An independent report from innovation and investment consultancy firm, Beauhurst,** estimated businesses within the Warwick Innovation District had raised over £100 million in investment since 2020 and supported over 700 new businesses.

Professor Stuart Croft, Vice Chancellor at the University of Warwick, said: “The Midlands is home to so much talent, innovation and expertise – which makes it an ideal place for start-ups and new businesses in so many ways.

“However, the reality is that we need to find new ways of ensuring the funding is in place to support our entrepreneurs so they can grow their companies here in the region. That’s why I’m delighted to have co-founded Midlands Mindforge to help bring in the new investment the region needs to help businesses thrive during those challenging early stages.

“Supporting business growth benefits the region, with jobs, skills and inward investment. We’re proud to be playing our part in helping startups to flourish.”