PhovIR has successfully raised £4 million in seed funding, led by Northern Gritstone, to advance its innovative near-infrared (NIR) technology. This breakthrough allows for the detection of materials and substances through a small, cost-effective silicon chip, which can be integrated into portable devices like smartphones and smartwatches. Originating from the University of Manchester, PhovIR’s technology leverages MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) to offer a versatile and scalable solution for various applications, from health and safety to agriculture.
Under the leadership of Dr. Tim Echtermeyer and Dr. Steve Turley, PhovIR aims to launch its first commercial product, expand its team, and continue its mission to enhance human and environmental health. The company’s participation in Northern Gritstone’s NG Studios pre-seed programme has been pivotal in refining its commercial strategy.
Northern Gritstone, since its inception in May 2022, has invested in 38 early-stage companies and built a robust support system through NG Innovation Services. Duncan Johnson, CEO of Northern Gritstone, expressed confidence in PhovIR’s potential to become a global leader in deep tech, highlighting the University of Manchester’s excellence in materials science.
Dr. Echtermeyer and Dr. Turley, along with their engineering team, are eager to transform their vision into reality, demonstrating the UK’s capability to nurture groundbreaking technology. The University of Manchester, represented by Duncan Ivison, lauds PhovIR as a prime example of impactful innovation stemming from collaborative research.
