ROSLIN Technologies, a four-year-old business which partners closely with the Roslin Institute – Scotland’s world-leading institute for animal research – is embarking on a £50 million second-round capital raise, valuing the Edinburgh-based company at more than £55m.

The specialist AgriTech venture builder will use the funds to invest in a wide range of cutting-edge AgriTech initiatives and build relationships through its growing number of portfolio companies.

The investment round will be led by Milltrust International LLP and JBI Equity, two of the world’s leading AgriTech advisers, and both founding investors in the company.

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Founded to help turn the scientific discoveries of the University of Edinburgh’s Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies into marketable solutions for the agricultural and veterinary sectors, the company has broadened its scope to build partnerships around the world, investing both capital and expertise.

Recent investments include a Singapore-based business which turns insects into animal feed and fertiliser in a single process.

While Covid-19 is weighing on some investments, Roslin says it is likely to attract considerable interest due to its non-cyclical and defensive aspects, focused on improving food security and safety. Its sustainable qualities are also in demand – tackling the global food deficit and making agriculture more environmentally efficient.

CEO Glen Illing said: “The capital raise is a significant milestone for us, demonstrating our huge potential.

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“Our clients are eagerly embracing technology solutions our scientists are making, and we’re confident our new key initiatives in the fields of insect, shrimp and cultivated meat technology will become large-scale commercial ventures.

“Building on this incredible work, we believe Roslin Technologies will become one of the world’s leading AgriTech venture businesses.”

Milltrust CEO Simon Hopkins, said: “As a founding investor, it is very exciting to help the company take its next key growth step. We always knew the commercial potential for a business working with these leading scientists was excellent, and the next compelling pipeline of projects, along with current portfolio growth, is tremendous to see.”