Blackpool automotive spare part start-up E4-3D raises six-figure funding

Investors in this round: Private investors match-funding £76,000 of Innovate UK grant funding

A Blackpool-based automotive spare parts platform is poised to shake up the automotive industry after raising over £150,000 in investment.

E4-3D has created a 3D printing marketplace which sells certified digital design files of automotive spare parts, increasing efficiencies in the traditional spare parts supply chain.  The marketplace eliminates the need for a warehouse to store products. The on-demand 3D printing system optimises logistics, speeds up delivery times and reduces the CO2emissions generated through traditional practices.

Irma Gilbert, Founder and CEO said, “I sought investment to continue building the first ever Blockchain, AI-based Digital supply chain for spare parts, providing effective logistical management, faster delivery time and a reduced carbon footprint.

“The money raised will help us build the platform more quickly and is a major step in our efforts to transform the archaic automotive spare parts industry. I can’t overstate the value of NorthInvest’s advice and guidance. Since I first contacted them, the team were honest and communicative. They gave me invaluable strategic advice well beyond simply how to approach investors and grant funding application support.’’

The raise includes private investors match-funding £76,000 of Innovate UK grant funding awarded through the Regional Angel Investment Accelerator (RAIA) programme. This Innovate UK programme is delivered across the wider North by Leeds-based investment non-profit NorthInvest, in partnership with North East-based Innovation SuperNetwork, North East Business Innovation Centre (BIC), and the national UK Business Angels Association (UKBAA).

E4-3D is one of the latest IP-rich tech start-ups to benefit from the RAIA project. The programme has secured a further £2m from Innovate UK following the deployment of £1m worth of pilot funding to support innovation-led businesses across the North in 2019 & 2020.

The funds will support E4-3D to move from proof-of-concept by further developing its IT platform and hiring a sales team.

NorthInvest Investment Director, Jordan Dargue; said “Founder Irma Gilbert and her experienced team have succeeded in building a revolutionary platform that will transform the automotive spare parts industry, combining AI and 3D printing.   E4-3D is yet another successful example of the highly innovative businesses that the RAIA programme enables, funded by Innovate UK.  We’re delighted to support Irma and E4-3D in securing this funding.”