US genomics accelerator expands to Cambridge

Genomics start-ups will be able to apply for funding, gain access to next-generation technologies, and receive business guidance thanks to a new accelerator based in Cambridge.

DNA sequencing company Illumina has launched the first international location of its Illumina Accelerator. Founded originally in San Francisco in 2014, the Illumina Accelerator is designed to help build breakthrough genomics start-ups.

The first funding cycle is expected to begin in Spring 2020 with applications beginning November 1, 2019. Successful companies will be offered access to seed investment, sequencing systems and reagents, as well as business guidance, genomics expertise, and fully operational lab space adjacent to Illumina’s campuses in Cambridge, UK or the San Francisco Bay Area.

“With 21 years of experience advancing the field of genomics, Illumina is delighted to foster the next generation of global genomics innovators,” said Paula Dowdy, Illumina’s senior vice president and general manager, commercial operations, EMEA. “With the launch of Illumina Accelerator Cambridge, we are expertly positioned to further catalyse the rapidly expanding genomics ecosystem across EMEA.”

Professor Sir John Bell, lead for the UK Life Sciences Industrial Strategy, said: “I am delighted that Illumina has chosen Cambridge as the first location to expand its Accelerator. Illumina Accelerator Cambridge will undoubtedly contribute to the UK’s life sciences effort by galvanising genomics startups to harness the rapid and affordable next-generation sequencing technology pioneered by Illumina and develop applications that will benefit human health the world over.”

“In launching Illumina Accelerator Cambridge, we look forward to partnering with leading entrepreneurs and venture investors to harness the unique strengths and genomics expertise in the UK and beyond,” said Mostafa Ronaghi, Illumina’s senior vice president, chief technology officer and co-founder of Illumina Accelerator.