Spotlight on Innovation

A: Around 2013, we realised we needed help to expand our research capabilities, particularly in biological-based medicines like proteins. Early in our journey, we engaged with Enterprise Ireland for research and development grants. As university-based founders, we knew Enterprise Ireland's profile in funding academic and applied research. Although we didn’t know the specifics, we quickly moved past early-stage grants to secure a significant R&D grant. 

A: Over a decade ago, they provided us with a grant to help us improve the manufacturing process of biological medicines in large bioreactors. This support allowed us to develop our team and the science. Since then, Enterprise Ireland's support has included employment expansion grants, innovation grants for AI digital design of medicines and help with a large expansion in January 2023. 

A: The grants really encouraged us to invest more in key areas of our business, such as team development, systems, and infrastructure. This support was an incentive to push us to innovate and expand. As a result, we developed a better understanding of manufacturing biological medicines, established new business units, expanded our facilities, and integrated AI into medicine design. All of this has led to real business growth and solidified our position as a leader in pharmaceutical innovation.

A: R&I enabled us to put science at the core of everything we do and emphasise the importance of research and innovation within our organisation. This focus has led us to better science, products, services, and overall business growth. And, programs like Leadership for Growth have helped us operationalise innovation. Everyone has great ideas, but it's the people who can execute those ideas and make them part of a valuable exchange for a customer.

A: Many companies develop great ideas, but even if these ideas are valuable for customers, they often struggle to implement them internally. Doing something new can be challenging because employees might not be accustomed to it, and we still face this struggle today. It's not a trivial task. So, there are two key points to focus on: first, think about how your innovation benefits the customer; second, ensure your organisation has the structure and measurement models to implement and track the success of these innovations.