This oncology-themed cohort, supported by Capital Enterprise Network, CRUK, NHS Kent & Medway Cancer Alliance, and the University of Kent, brought together businesses developing future empowering solutions in diagnostics, therapeutics, AI, and medical technologies. Over the course of the programme, participants gained invaluable mentorship and took part in expert-led workshops to propel their ventures forward.

Following an intensive final pitch day, Capital Enterprise Network nominated Protalea Bio and its founder, Elena Pavlova, the winner of a prestigious place on the CRUK-funded Cancer Tech Accelerator Bootcamp (CTA). Protalea Bio impressed the judges with a clear and compelling pitch, showcasing groundbreaking research that aligns perfectly with the support offered by the Cancer Tech Accelerator. Protalea Bio is pioneering cell therapies and bispecific biologics to tackle cancers and autoimmune diseases, particularly blood cancers, by targeting sphingolipid metabolism. The support from CTA will be instrumental in accelerating the company’s scientific and commercial development, helping advance Protalea Bio's path to market.

Elena Pavlova, Founder of Protalea Bio said: “I am incredibly honoured and excited to have been awarded a place in the Cancer Tech Accelerator Bootcamp through Discovery Spark. The programme has been wonderful, providing insightful guidance and mentorship. This next step with CTA will be crucial in advancing our research and making a greater impact in oncology.”

Discovery Park and its partners recognised the exceptional quality of all participating companies, leading to a split prize approach. Rather than a single company receiving the entire package, the prizes were allocated based on which companies would benefit most from specific support areas. Selected participants will receive free tailored support from Discovery Park’s host of prize partners.

This collaborative approach ensures that all companies in the cohort stand to receive elements of the resources, expertise, and network connections they need to succeed.

Discovery Park is firmly establishing itself as a centre of excellence for oncology innovation, supporting startups and scaleups at the forefront of cancer research and treatment. The programme aligns with the Park’s ongoing commitment to building an ecosystem of world-class cancer technology businesses.

Dr. Renos Savva, Head of Innovation & Venture Development at Discovery Park, commented: “We’ve been truly impressed by the ambition and ingenuity of all the participants. The Discovery Spark programme continues to attract some of the most promising startups, and we are thrilled to see Protalea Bio receive well-deserved recognition from our partner Capital Enterprise Network. We look forward to seeing their technologies transform cancer diagnostics and treatment in the years ahead.”

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