SAGES secures £190k from British Design Fund to scale sustainable dye production
The London startup will use the capital to advance product development and commercial deployment of its food waste dyes.
Sages creates patented, bio-based dyes from inedible food waste to replace polluting synthetic alternatives across various industrial sectors.
SAGES has secured £190k in funding from British Design Fund to accelerate the commercialisation of its food-waste-derived dye technology. The capital will be directed towards product development, pilot-scale production, and strategic partnerships across fashion and interiors.
Founded by Emily Taylor and Alice Simpson, the company produces biodegradable, water-soluble colour alternatives extracted from waste streams such as onion skins, coffee, and blueberries. The formulations aim to eliminate toxic synthetic dyes while integrating into existing manufacturing processes without compromising performance.
From the founder
"Synthetic dye is used in everything from clothing to bedding and cosmetics. But this type of dye is highly toxic, carcinogenic and incredibly polluting."
Emily Taylor
Co-Founder & CEO at Sages
Investor perspective
"SAGES is tackling a critical environmental challenge with a solution that’s both scientifically rigorous and commercially viable. The founding team brings deep expertise and a clear vision for scale, and we’re pleased to support their journey as they develop sustainable alternatives for industries in need of change."
Damon Bonser
CEO, British Design Fund
Use of funds
- 01Continue product development
- 02Fund the next phase of growth