FACTS: The Startup Philosophy Powering Graphene Innovation

Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre 27 March 2025

At the University of Manchester, innovation isn’t just a buzzword—it’s embedded into the ecosystem we nurture across our research centres and industry partnerships. A standout example of this is the journey of Dr. Vivek Koncherry, CEO of Graphene Innovations Manchester (GIM), and his journey from concept to global scale-up, supported every step of the way by the Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre (GEIC).

In a recent fireside-style conversation between Dr. Koncherry and James Baker, CEO of Graphene@Manchester, we explored the philosophy that’s driving GIM’s success: FACTS. This practical, empowering framework isn’t just helping GIM thrive—it’s also a blueprint for other startups and SMEs navigating the challenges of deep tech, advanced materials, and commercialisation.

From research to real-world impact

James began the session by reflecting on Vivek’s trajectory:

“Five years ago, you were a researcher. Now you’re solving global challenges in data centres, carbon fibre, and sustainable construction. You’ve moved from startup to scale-up and beyond.”

Vivek added:

“Many people know about our beginnings through the Bridging the Gap programme at GEIC, which helped early-stage startups like ours move from research to real-world innovation (read more here). Now, almost 4 years later, we’re seeing significant results. One of our biggest successes has been in Saudi Arabia, where we’ve commercialised both graphene-enhanced concrete and carbon fibre at scale. More recently, we’ve launched a graphene-based cooling company in the US for data centres—tackling one of the biggest challenges in AI and computing, that of the rising energy demands of the sector.”

The power of the GEIC ecosystem

Both speakers underscored how vital GEIC’s support has been. For Vivek, GEIC wasn’t just a facility—it was the launchpad.

“I never saw GIM as a traditional startup. Even though we were small, we had the full backing of the GEIC and the University of Manchester. That alignment meant we could access tools, talent, and credibility beyond our size.”

James echoed the sentiment:

“Because of GEIC, startups like GIM have access to facilities and support usually reserved for large corporations. That’s our differentiator as an innovation centre.”

Introducing FACTS: a business framework

The heart of the discussion was Vivek’s business philosophy: FACTS, an acronym that reflects the pillars of his success.

F is for Facts

Vivek explained:

“Whether I’m pitching or problem-solving, I start with facts. For example, AI and data centres are growing fast. That’s a fact. They consume vast amounts of energy, much of it for cooling. That’s another fact. Graphene is the best-known conductor of heat. Again, a fact. I give people facts and let them connect the dots.”

Facts create credibility. They eliminate hype. And they accelerate trust.

A is for Alignment

“Alignment is everything,” Vivek emphasised. “Whether with a partner, a government, or an internal team, if we’re not aligned, we can’t move forward. In Saudi Arabia, we are aligned with their Vision 2030. In the US, we align with the national priority. At GEIC, we align with researchers, engineers, and facilities.”

James added:

“This message isn’t just for entrepreneurs. It’s for governments, too. The UK has world-class research and startups. What we need now is national alignment on funding, ambition, and policy.”

C is for Convenience

“Being based at GEIC makes life convenient. We can access equipment, experts, and decision-makers quickly. That speeds everything up. Even global clients find it easier to work with us because we’re well-connected through this ecosystem.”

He added that convenience applies across geographies: “In Saudi Arabia or the US via GIM StarLight Miami for example, we embed and align ourselves where it’s convenient for partners to work with us. That accessibility is a huge advantage and differentiator for our business.”

T is for Technology

GIM uniquely combines Graphene, Robotics and AI for product development.

GIM’s work is not speculative. It’s built on graphene’s proven, peer-reviewed performance:

“Tens of thousands of scientific papers confirm graphene’s potential. But it’s about taking that technology and applying it where it makes a real difference—like in construction, cooling, or composites.”

James noted that many early graphene adopters didn’t get results, but startups like GIM are changing the narrative:

“The industry now sees that graphene works—when applied well. Big companies are returning to the conversation because of what they see smaller innovators achieving.”

S is for Speed

“Speed is essential in innovation,” Vivek shared. “We focus on delivering something tangible quickly—even if it’s not perfect. That allows us to learn, improve, and stay ahead. In Saudi, for example, we’ve already shipped a commercial concrete machine and begun setting up production, while others are still in planning.”

This iterative approach to development encourages progress through action, not just planning.

James added:

“Speed is critical for startups or any other businesses. It’s about learning fast, failing fast, and moving forward. That’s how we stay agile and different. At GEIC, we embrace this mindset and empower our partners to do the same.”

Speed also means getting to market faster, which drives revenue and impact sooner.

Scaling with purpose

Both leaders highlighted that this isn’t just about one company. It’s about an ecosystem that scales ideas into industries.

James:

“There are now 60+ startups in Manchester working on graphene and 2D materials. That’s thanks to the momentum from companies like GIM. As these scale, others follow.”

Vivek:

“We’re in the Graphene Age—like the Steel Age or the Digital Age. Every aspect of life will be touched by it. And there’s room for thousands of companies, not just one.”

A model for the UK—and globally

The conversation closed with a challenge to UK industry and government:

Vivek:

“In Saudi or the US, there’s alignment between ambition, funding, and technology. In the UK, we have interest, but we need better alignment. Large-scale, long-term investment needs to come from institutions like pension funds. That requires coordination.”

James:

“Startups can’t do it alone. Universities, policymakers, and investors all have a role to play. FACTS is a philosophy for everyone involved in innovation.”

The right place to start—and scale

This isn’t just about one company’s growth—it’s a reflection of what’s possible when the right environment, tools, and mindset come together. For those navigating the uncertainty of launching or scaling a business, FACTS offers a grounded, practical approach.

Success doesn’t require having all the answers at the outset. It’s about making informed decisions, finding the right people to work with, and staying open to change along the way. With programmes like Bridging the Gap, world-class facilities, and a strong support network at the University of Manchester, entrepreneurs don’t have to go it alone.

At GEIC, we believe that ideas need space, tools, and collaboration to take shape. And through the FACTS philosophy, we see how small beginnings can grow into something impactful—locally and globally.

FACTS isn’t just an internal mantra at GIM. It’s a proven, scalable model for any entrepreneur, policymaker, or partner aiming to turn innovation into impact. At the University of Manchester and GEIC, we’re proud to support companies like GIM who live by it every day.

Whether you’re a solo founder, a student entrepreneur, or a global partner—the message is clear: follow the FACTS, and the future is within reach.

Interested in working with GEIC or launching your idea into the graphene ecosystem? Get in touch with our team and discover how the University of Manchester can support your journey.

Learn more about Graphene Innovations Manchester (GIM):
Visit: https://www.grapheneinnovationsmanchester.com