IBiotech is a research and development green-tech startup focused on biomaterial development, medical research, and solar-energy projects. They emerged victorious from the 2024 Heathrow World of Opportunity initiative, which helps exporters from the West Midlands sell their goods and services around the world.

The prize was a £2,000 grant and support which has enabled IBiotech to conduct in-depth research, access expert guidance, and make informed decisions about next steps.

Thanks to Heathrow’s World of Opportunity programme, IBiotech will be able to explore further opportunities within the international market and is preparing for large-scale bioleather exports to meet anticipated demand.

Heathrow is now calling for small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) in the West Midlands to come forward and share their exporting ambitions, following in IBiotech’s footsteps, in 2025.

This year’s World of Opportunity programme applications are open from 22 September to 31 December and 12 recipients will be chosen by a panel of business and government experts including representatives from Heathrow, the Federation of Small Businesses and the Department for Business and Trade.

The programme is designed to support the UK’s SMEs in boosting their export potential, with previous grants being used for trade missions, research, and training to further exporting ambitions.

Taking the step to export abroad is one of the best ways for UK businesses to grow, accessing new markets, larger customer bases and increasing sales and revenue.

Brian Johnston, Director, IBiotech, said: “Winning the Heathrow World of Opportunity grant is a huge boost for our business. It enabled us to complete our patenting process, which will allow us to reach European markets with our bioleather products.

“It also helped with our networking, facilitating invitations to high-profile meetings and giving us the resources to grow. With this support, we’re investing in expanding our knowledge of supply chain infrastructure and capabilities to explore new markets around the world.”

Heathrow’s Chief Communications and Sustainability Officer, Nigel Milton, said: “The West Midlands is home to entrepreneurs with enormous potential to succeed on the global stage. SMEs across the country produce and offer a wide range of outstanding products and services, and unlocking their ability to access international markets is vital for driving economic growth and supporting jobs.

“As the UK’s hub airport and largest port by value, Heathrow is proud to already support thousands of SMEs to grow their business through trade and we want to enable even more to be able to access the world of opportunity that is out there.”

Trade Minister Chris Bryant, said: “Small businesses right across the UK have incredible potential to grow internationally, and initiatives like this help turn that potential into reality.

“With Heathrow connecting UK firms to the rest of the world, this programme perfectly complements our Trade Strategy and provides a welcome gateway to funding and tools that help exporters succeed overseas.”