Northern Gritstone

Northern Gritstone is a UK investment company founded in 2021 to back science, technology, and IP-rich businesses originating from the North of England’s Universities. Northern Gritstone has a “profit with purpose” philosophy; the firm aims to generate strong returns while driving regional innovation, job creation, and economic growth in areas historically underserved by venture capital. Since launch, it has raised over £360 million from institutional and private investors, making it one of the largest investment initiatives of its kind in the UK.

Northern Gritstone focuses on early stage university spin-outs in sectors such as advanced materials, health and life sciences, digital technology, and AI, positioning itself as both an investor and a catalyst for the Northern innovation ecosystem. The firm has supported 32 investee companies and 744 employees along with creating 245 jobs.

Merseyside Pension Fund invested £20m to Northern Gritstone throughout 2023 and 2025.