Naturbeads

University of Bath spinout Naturbeads has successfully secured €4.1 million (approximately £3.6 million) in non-dilutive grant funding from the EU's European Structural Fund.

Summary of transaction details:

• Value: €4.1 million (£3.6 million)
• Sector: Climate Tech / Advanced Materials
• Advisor: Not disclosed
• Key Entities: Target: Naturbeads; Grant Provider: European Structural Fund; Key Executive: Giovanna Laudisio (CEO)
• Location: Bath, UK (HQ) / Puglia, Italy (Production Plant)

Note: Naturbeads is tackling the global microplastic pollution crisis at its source. The company has developed a patented process that refines cellulose—a naturally occurring plant material—into perfectly round, fully biodegradable microspheres. These plant-based beads act as a direct, drop-in replacement for the plastic microbeads commonly found in cosmetics, detergents, paints, and coatings. This EU grant will partially reimburse the construction costs of Naturbeads’ first commercial production plant in Puglia, Italy, which is currently undergoing stress testing ahead of a full commercial ramp-up expected in June 2026.