Why we invested: Radiant Matter
Sustainable Ventures is thrilled to announce our latest investment from our 6th Fund into Radiant Matter Ltd.
Radiant Matter is a new materials startup based in London developing high performance shimmer- and colour-effects from plant-based cellulose with applications across multi-billion dollar markets, including automotive, cosmetics, textiles, coatings and packaging.
Its technology leverages cellulose nanocrystals to create vibrant structural colours. Similar to the dazzling colours that are seen in nature, for example on peacock feathers, butterfly wings and beetles. Radiant Matter creates metallic-like glittering materials without the use of dyes, pigments, metals, minerals or plastics. Their technology will help manufacturers undertake the necessary transition away from microplastics and toxic colourants, which are being mandated by the evolving regulatory landscapes in the UK, EU and US.
Its market entry has been in B2B high-end textiles, where the vivid colouration of their materials has led to its BioSequin™ embellishment in garments from pioneering sustainability-driven fashion brands such as Stella McCartney and Been London. They are utilising this initial traction to build a strong value proposition around their materials, which has been bolstered by their ongoing customer partnerships. Leading to their exhibition at COP28 in Dubai along with media coverage from Bloomberg, BBC and Vogue US.
Radiant Matter’s team has significant expertise in material science and nanotechnology. CEO & Founder Elissa Brunato brings over a decade of industry experience in design, technical development, manufacturing & management, complemented by a Material Futures MA from UAL and training from Ecole Lesage Paris. CTO & Co-Founder Cyan Williams holds a PhD in Photonic Materials from the University of Cambridge, supported by start-up experience in developing innovations, R&D strategies and scaling up tech in pilot plants and factories.
This round, Radiant Matter has raised £1.2 million (mainly comprising investments and topped up with non-dilutive funding). Sustainable Ventures invested alongside impact-driven and deep tech investors Ada Ventures, Evenlode Impact Ltd, Martlet Capital Ltd, and with participation from the Cambridge Angels group and individual sector-specific angels. This investment will fuel crucial aspects of the company’s growth, including research and development, IP development, and scaling their manufacturing and commercial capacity.
Sustainable Ventures is delighted to support Radiant Matter in transforming how colour and materials are sourced and manufactured. This strategic investment addresses key global challenges around the damaging use of petroleum, resource consumption, carbon emissions, mining associated with human rights issues and microplastic pollution in our manufacturing sectors. Our support will be focused on expanding their commercial roadmap, supporting governance and accelerating their technical development.
