Who we support
Imperial Incubator is home to ambitious science founders bringing new solutions into the world. We support early-stage startups with the space, tools and community to grow.
Is Imperial Incubator right for my startup?
The Incubator supports early-stage startups with flexible wet lab and office space in West London. Our curated community includes pioneers in biotechnology, diagnostics, therapeutics, novel materials, synthetic biology and more – both with and without a pre-existing Imperial connection.
Sector expertise
MedTech
Incubator Members are shaping the future of healthcare with novel technologies that will help people to lead longer, healthier lives.
Our proposition sits alongside wider MedTech accelerator programmes that support entrepreneurs at Imperial including MedTech SuperConnector and MedTechONE, and facilities such as Advanced Hackspace.
Climate Solutions
We’re a hub for sustainable technologies such as battery storage solutions, green hydrogen, chemical recycling, cleantech and agritech innovations.
Some of our Members have also benefitted from programmes run by Undaunted that support climate innovators at different stages of their entrepreneurship journey.
Bio Tech
Our community is creating innovative biology-based products with applications in healthcare, agriculture and environmental management.
Sustainable Fashion
Startups supported by the Incubator are making fashion more sustainable by replacing fossil-derived materials with biodegradable alternatives to nylon, polyurethane, plastic sequins and more.
Drug Research and Discovery
From new cancer treatments to discoveries in antibiotic and microbiome research, exciting medical treatments are being developed here.
Where potential becomes progress
The Incubator’s environment is purpose-built for early-stage science startups ready to scale. We know that each startup is unique and take a tailored, flexible approach to supporting each of our Members.
Beyond our infrastructure and support, we help unlock potential through networks and collaboration. Working closely with centres and initiatives across Imperial and beyond, we connect founders to world-class research, talent and facilities that accelerate progress.
Our impact 2016 – 2024
Companies incubated
£ million raised
Jobs created
%
Startup survival rate
Frequently asked questions
What types of startups are best suited to Imperial’s Incubator?
We welcome early-stage life science startups requiring wet lab space, such as those working in the fields of novel materials, biotechnology, diagnostics, therapeutics and synthetic biology.
What is included in the monthly licence fee?
Our licence covers access to shared lab benches or private lab space, shared lab equipment, co-working or private office space and infrastructure support such as Wi-Fi, waste disposal, lab coat laundry and mailroom services.
You say that terms are flexible. What’s the minimum contract duration?
We offer flexible contracts tailored to your stage of growth and evolving needs. Our minimum contract duration is one year license with a two month termination policy.
How do I apply for space in the Incubator?
Please submit an “Expression of Interest” via our website with details of your space requirements in the first instance.
Applications are reviewed based on the startup’s stage of development, scientific merit, team strength, feasibility and alignment with our facilities and mission.
How long can a startup be based at the Incubator for?
Most Members stay with us between 12 to 36 months, during which time they might have moved premises once or more within the Incubator (for example, from a shared facility to a private lab).
What happens if my startup outgrows the Incubator?
We support your transition into larger facilities through our network of property partners and can assist with planning your relocation.
Do you provide virtual office services?
No, we do not provide virtual office services for non-resident companies. Our support is designed specifically for startups that are actively working on-site within our lab and office spaces.
Do I need to have studied at Imperial for my startup to be considered?
No. We welcome both startups with an existing Imperial connection and those that are new to our community.
What are your safety training and compliance requirements?
All lab users must complete onboarding safety training, adhere to our operating procedures and comply with their own company’s health and safety protocols.
Can I bring in my own specialist lab equipment?
Yes, provided it meets our safety guidelines, has suitable utilities connections and fits within the boundaries of your space. All equipment must be approved by our Lab Manager before installation.
Do you provide access to core scientific equipment?
Absolutely. Our shared equipment room and labs offers access to commonly used instruments such as centrifuges, biosafety cabinets, fumehoods and cold storage (a full list is available upon request).
In addition, Members have access to wider specialist facilities through Imperial’s network such as the Hackspace, the Royce Institute and Agilent Suite (consult our “Innovation at Imperial” webpage for more details).
Is chemical and biological waste disposal included?
Yes. We have clinical waste disposal process as part of your membership. All members are entitled to dispose of 4 free clinical bags a month and the cost thereafter will be £25 per bag.
Is there Wi-Fi and IT support included?
Yes. We offer secure, high-speed Wi-Fi. IT support is managed through the building owner, Scale Space.
What are the hours of lab access?
Members have 24/7 access to the labs and office areas. A swipe card system is in place for security.
What type of business support do you offer?
Members have access to a network of mentors, investors and industry experts. Regular programming includes business seminars, workshops and “meet the expert” sessions.
Can I hire interns and staff through the Incubator?
We are always happy to promote job vacancies on your behalf (for example in our newsletters and on our Linkedin channel, as well as via word of mouth).
The Scale Space Careers Fair offers startups a valuable chance to connect with Imperial’s talented students, graduates and researchers – ideal for hiring, internships or building a future talent pipeline.
In addition, The White City Internship Fund gives startups the chance to tap into Imperial’s exceptional student talent. It supports summer internships (minimum eight weeks) focused on growth-driven projects, with businesses receiving a 50% salary contribution toward the cost.
Do you take an equity stake in my startup?
No, the Incubator does not take an equity stake in the startups it supports. For academic founders based at Imperial, the spinout formation process sets out terms and determines how much founding equity the university takes. For more information, visit the Founders Choice webpages.
Is funding available through the Incubator?
The Incubator does not directly fund startups, however we assist Members to access funding. For example the E-Lab’s Investment Services provides investment readiness support and our newsletter lists relevant grant opportunities and open calls for competitions. We also host joint events with grant-awarding bodies such as Innovate UK.
Are there opportunities for collaboration among startups in the incubator?
Absolutely. We actively promote collaborating through monthly social events, regular seminars and networking opportunities. Members can also communicate directly via our WhatsApp group. Some of our members go on to do business together.
Case study
Solena Materials
Solena Materials designs new proteins to develop fibres that are high performance, non-oil derived and biodegradable. Their mission is to reduce the environmental impact of the fashion sector by creating the next generation of synthetic fibres.
What key progress has the business made since graduating from the Incubator?
After initially signing a contract with a well-known sportswear brand, Solena Materials is now gaining traction within the luxury fashion sector. We’ve benefitted from a growing demand to replace synthetic materials with sustainable, high performing non-petroleum derived alternatives.
In May 2025, Solena announced a $6.7m raise to produce protein fibres at scale using AI and synthetic biology. Read more here.
James MacDonald, CEO & Co-founder