University deal boost for pharma firm CF
KILKENNY-BASED animal feed supplement manufacturer CF Pharma has developed and commercialised two new animal healthcare products after teaming up with Ulster University as part of a cross-border SME initiative.
Based in Hebron Industrial Estate, Kilkenny, CF Pharma is a privately-owned nutraceutical animal feed supplement manufacturer.
The products, designed to prevent diarrhoea in farm animals, are being sold in 10 different European countries.
Through the Fusion programme run by cross-border development body InterTradeIreland, CF Pharma benefited from the expertise of former veterinary surgeon, Pavel Cirneala and Ulster University academic, Dr Violetta Naughton.
Mr Cirneala founded and now leads the regulatory affairs department at CF Pharma.
The collaboration between CF Pharma and Ulster University aided the development and commercialisation of two new animal healthcare products which helped open up opportunities in the European market.
Clare Hughes, CF managing director, said the collaboration has led to the company taking on an extra 24 staff.
InterTradeIreland said the Fusion initiative supports business development and innovation by partnering companies north and south with third-level institutions and high-calibre graduates in science, engineering or technology for up to 18 months.
The graduate works directly with the business to deliver new products or improved processes.
CF Pharma has been awarded ‘FusionProject Exemplar’ status, along with Ceramicx in Co. Cork; Deluxe Art & Theme in Co Armagh and Statsports Technologies in Co Down.
“We are delighted to support ambitious companies on both sides of the Border, which are committed to innovation,” said Margaret Hearty, Director of Programmes and Business Services at InterTradeIreland.
“I would like to recognise the hard work and dedication of the participants.”