Dr James MacFarlane is the founder and CEO of Grantwise, a consultancy that helps innovative UK businesses secure non-dilutive funding through high-scoring, expertly crafted grant applications.
With over 15 years’ experience at the forefront of innovation funding, James has supported more than 400 companies across a wide range of sectors — from engineering biology and medical devices to agritech, green tech, advanced materials and digital solutions. To date, his work has helped secure over £100 million in grant funding from major UK and EU sources.
James brings deep, hands-on knowledge of Innovate UK, Scottish Enterprise and EU programmes including EIC Horizon, and is an active reviewer for major UK grant-awarding bodies such as UKRI (IUK, EPSRC, NERC) and the Royal Academy of Engineering. This gives him unique insight into what makes an application stand out.
At Grantwise, James leads a team that delivers bespoke, strategic funding support — no templates, no fluff. Just carefully tailored applications that bring your innovation to life and maximise your chances of success.
