OxFIIP

The first Oxentia Foundation International Innovators Programme (OxFIIP), invited 4 innovators from countries with an evolving innovation ecosystem, whose ventures would benefit from 1:1 mentoring support from experienced mentors. Supporting these entrepreneurs, who’s ventures demonstrated the potential to deliver societal impact, were given free training, mentoring, and consultancy services. OxFIIP equipped these 4 entrepreneurs with the skills to accelerate and expand their business, and have shared their stories to help inspire others:

The participants

Bio-EcoMatter develops sustainable materials and solutions for reducing environmental impact, where they aim to replace traditional, polluting products with sustainable alternatives. From packaging, construction, and consumer goods, their innovation encourages a circular economy, helping combat climate change and contribute to a more sustainable future for all.

SciEduc make science education more fun by teaching STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) skills through hands-on experiments, interactive workshops, and immersive learning experiences. This prepares students for future STEAM careers, by nurturing the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.

Apliqueducação Aprendizado e Tecnologia develop interactive learning platforms and educational software to bridge the gap between traditional education methods and modern technological advancements to improve literacy rates and educational outcomes across various regions. OxFIIP supported them in their mission to democratise education and make quality learning tools available to all, regardless of geographic or economic barriers.

STEAM-Club promotes STEAM ( Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education through after-school programs and community workshops. By giving students with hands-on projects, collaborative learning experiences, and mentorship opportunities, they prepare students to tackle complex global challenges by facilitating both analytical and creative skills.

The partners

We were proud to have delivered the programme in partnership with regional organisations who are embedded in local innovation ecosystems, working to support entrepreneurs’ growth. Our partners included:  

New Ventures, a leading Mexican company known for their work with startups and their focus on environmentally friendly entrepreneurship and social impact. Through their network and investment programs, NV helps drive positive change in the business landscape by promoting sustainable business practices and innovation in Mexico and Latin America. 

The Bertha Centre for Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business is a globally ranked centre of excellence dedicated to advancing social innovation and entrepreneurship. Their mission is to build capacity and knowledge – with partners, practitioners and students – to advance the discourse and systemic impact of social innovation. 

FUNDECYT-PCTEx is a regional organisation that provides the space and services needed to facilitate exchange of know-how, science and technology for the socio-economic development of Extremadura, southwest Spain. They do this by delivering a range of services to support innovation, entrepreneurship and cooperation for the promotion of smart, sustainable and inclusive growth of the region. 

Wylinka is a non-profit organization that promotes scientific based solutions and startups, connecting innovation ecosystem`s stakeholders to universities and researchers, aiming to generate positive impact, economic and sustainable growth in Brazil.

Our mentors 

Sarah Allison – Sarah has a background in Life Sciences. Sarah works with entrepreneurs from around the world to commercialise their innovations. She has a particular interest in route to market determination, business planning and communication. Sarah works to support promising technologies – those which could significantly enhance and make a difference to people’s lives – to reach the market and get to those that need them most. 

Andreea Iacoban – Andreea has a background in Chemistry and Life Sciences, and she works with corporate companies and start-ups on evaluating new technologies in these sectors. She enjoys working on technical innovation challenges and helping clients leverage innovation in making an impact, in particular, in the health and manufacturing areas. 

Britta Wyatt – Britta has an interest in Humanities, Arts and the Social Sciences, where she applies her expertise in early-stage investment, business analysis, and strategy. She thrives on supporting projects that look to transform society by generating sustained and significant impact. 

Silvana Jimenez – With a background in Life Sciences and 7 years of experience, Silvana Jiménez has been supporting researchers and start-ups in transferring their research results to the market. Her passion lies in knowledge exchange and finding ways to apply research to meet society’s needs. 

Bruno Reynolds – Bruno has a background in Life Sciences, along with 10 years’ experience supporting entrepreneurs in all sectors; his specialism being IP strategy development. He is passionate about supporting ambitious projects aiming to make a significant impact on society.