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Brett Cotten
Co-founder, Arda Biomaterials | Cambridge MBA for Biotech (MBE) | Author, Gene-trepreneur | 30u30 | Alt Protein, Biomaterials, & Climate-tech
Brett Cotten is the Co-Founder and CEO of Arda Biomaterials, a startup focused on creating sustainable biomaterials from waste, particularly brewery by-products. Founded in June 2022, Arda Biomaterials aims to develop animal-free and plastic-free alternatives to leather, starting with their product called New Grain™, which is derived from spent grain from the brewing industry. The company has successfully raised over £2 million in funding to support its operations and innovation in the biomaterials sector.125
Background and Education
Brett holds an MBA for Biotech (MPhil in Bioscience Enterprise) from the University of Cambridge. His academic and professional journey includes significant experience in the alternative protein sector, having worked with various startups and venture studios. Notably, he was part of Counterfactual Ventures, which specializes in alternative proteins, and has also contributed to Arkeon Biotechnologies, a company focused on converting CO2 into protein.248
Achievements
Cotten has authored a book titled Gene-trepreneur, which discusses leveraging biotechnology for entrepreneurship in food and materials to address climate challenges. Under his leadership, Arda Biomaterials has gained recognition for its innovative approach to sustainability and has been involved in discussions about scaling biomaterials within the circular economy.136
Vision for Arda Biomaterials
Cotten emphasizes the importance of transforming waste into high-value materials that can disrupt traditional industries, particularly fashion and automotive. His vision includes not only creating sustainable products but also advancing the development of a circular economy by utilizing resources that would otherwise be discarded.57

