Polish start-up Apeiron Synthesis, company that uses metathesis technology to produce efficient and environmentally friendly pharmaceuticals and fuels, is the first European company using this technology to open a branch in the United States. Its founder is Dr. Michał Bieniek, winner of the INNOVATOR programme of the Foundation for Polish Science.
Apeiron Synthesis is a privately held company based in Wrocław, founded in 2009 by Dr. Michał Bieniek and colleagues. The company focuses primarily on the development and application of innovative metathesis catalysts - technology widely used in the manufacture of more efficient and environmentally friendly pharmaceuticals, fuels, polymers, dyes, fragrance compounds, flavours.
The expansion of the company to the American market occurred after Dr. Michał Bieniek, with support from the SKILLS project of the Foundation for Polish Science, took part in an intensive one week training program for entrepreneurs Ignite. The program is carried out by the Centre for Entrepreneurial Learning (CfEL) at Judge Business School of the University of Cambridge.
It is addressed to young and ambitious entrepreneurs and inventors, and focuses on the commercialisation of research results for the business needs. Since 2011, with the financial support of the Foundation for Polish Science, Polish 35 scientists, researchers and inventors have participated in Ignite.
According to Dr. Bieniek, participation in Ignite has helped him carry out his business plans. "The experience gained in the program, in addition to a clearly broader view, gave me the basic tips on how to enter global markets. I expanded my contacts, collected tips and advice from experienced entrepreneurs and experts. Their help was invaluable in making strategic decisions concerning attracting new investors and signing contracts with customers" - he said.
"Dr. Bieniek is an excellent example of what Polish entrepreneurs can achieve through the participation in the training of business skills and knowledge" - says external communication expert in the SKILLS project of the Foundation for Polish Science Katarzyna Pronobis.
PAP - Science and Scholarship in Poland
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