Case Studies

Real examples of SME clients we've helped to focus, execute and grow. Some names may be anonymised; results are real.

B2B Services SME

CASE STUDY - Aila Biotech

Aila Biotech is developing gene therapies designed to treat neuro-inflammatory diseases, with a lead focus on Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (PPMS). Aila Biotech’s approach aims to regulate neuro-inflammation and promote central nervous system repair, slowing disease progression and improving patient outcomes.

 

Aila Biotech received targeted support from Chris Roberts in several areas:

  • Questioning assumptions & market research that strengthened our understanding of market opportunity

  • Coaching & advice on Investor readiness led to a much stronger investor pitch and more robust data room

  • Refining R&D grant applications and EOI’s that led to near clinical readiness without dilution.

 

Aila Biotech aims to secure a £4M seed round to fund early clinical development, establish strategic partnerships with manufacturing partners for future scale-up, and strengthen its position as a leading innovator in gene therapies for neuro-inflammatory disease.

 

Dr James Dooley, CEO of Aila Biotech, said "working with Chris Roberts has been a great experience. His insight, encouragement, and strategic guidance helped us translate our scientific strengths into a compelling commercial plan. This support has enabled us to move forward confidently with our fundraising and regulatory strategies, while staying focused on delivering impact for patients with progressive neurological disease.

Manufacturing SME

CASE STUDY – Joyner Bolt

Joyner Bolt is a specialist manufacturer of structural fixings engineered for timber-to-timber and timber-to-steel applications. Their precision-designed products support safer, stronger and more efficient construction across the building sector.

 

Joyner Bolt received targeted 1:1 support across innovation, funding & international expansion, including:

  • Digital sales and marketing ideas, guidance & implementation
  • Advice on strengthening their IP & IP strategy
  • Funding and finance guidance, including pitch deck preparation

 

Key outcomes achieved so far include:

  • Securing supply contracts with Tool Station and Ironmongery Direct.

  • Entering new markets in Ireland and progressing discussions with partners in the USA and Australia.

  • Gaining support from UK social-media influencers, boosting brand visibility and sales.

  • Identifying alternative suppliers in Taiwan and Turkey to reduce costs.

 

This support has helped transform the business, enabling Joyner Bolt to double turnover in just six months, secure major distributor relationships, expand internationally and strengthen its marketing capability.

 

Dan Hardingham, MD of Joyner Bolt said “We’ve been lucky enough to have the support of Chris, who’s helped us stay on track with focus-driven, task-oriented monthly meetings.”

Tech Scale-up

CASE STUDY – Lambda Energy Ltd

Cambridge-based Lambda is an Agri-Tech company that has developed a light changing spray coating for greenhouse panels that can increase crop yields by 20%. Their award-winning innovation enhances plant growth, yield and sugar content all at a lower cost than custom LED lighting.

 

Monica and her team have received expert advice from their innovation and growth Advisor, Chris Roberts on:

  • Market research and developing marketing strategies
  • Training & guidance on Investment readiness and pitch deck preparation
  • Refining the business model and monetisation strategy.

 

During our work with Chris, we successfully:

  • Raised £595k of grant funding and investment.
  • Developed patents in Europe and USA.

 

Monica Saavedra, CEO of Lambda said “Chris has given us access to grants and a safe space to talk about our strategy and governance”