Midlands Mindforge has backed three seed rounds — Healome, KVector and IMS Solutions — after being set up by research‑intensive Midlands universities to invest in world‑class science and technology businesses created in the region. University of Birmingham Enterprise played a pivotal role in convening decision makers from the eight co‑founding universities and worked with Midlands Innovation to drive progress behind the scenes before the investment company was established in 2023.
In June this year, Mindforge announced it had entered the investment phase at the UK Global R&D and Science Investment Summit, which showcased the Midlands’ world‑leading research strengths and investment‑ready opportunities on a world stage.
Midlands Mindforge enters investment phase
Midlands Mindforge’s move into active investing was publicly revealed at the summit in June, marking a transition from setup to funding activity. The seed rounds for Healome, KVector and IMS Solutions are among the early investments involving the company.
Forging Ahead project to commercialise research
Collaboration between Midlands universities has been further strengthened through the £16m Forging Ahead project. Launched in 2025, Forging Ahead aims to turn the Midlands’ research and innovation strengths into commercial success by strengthening networks, building capacity and supporting diverse talent to drive inclusive economic growth.
Projects initiated or supported by the Enterprise team create impact and also deliver direct benefit to the Midlands by supporting innovative young companies, improving the well‑being of local residents, or fostering conditions where innovation can flourish.
