Innovation UK > News > Innovation News > Ilika sets sights on China

Ilika plc, the UK-based advanced cleantech materials discovery company, has appointed Diverso, a China-based clean technology investment company, to develop new business opportunities on its behalf in the People?s Republic of China.

Diverso will be the Company?s business development representative in China, focusing on the energy sector, including batteries, photovoltaics, hydrogen storage materials and fuel cells. Its appointment will initially last for three years.

Graeme Purdy, Ilika?s Chief Executive, said: ?Diverso?s proven expertise in introducing innovative technology to Chinese manufacturing partners is a great attraction to us. Given its large and growing energy needs, China offers fantastic opportunities for the Company?s energy sector capabilities.?

?We are delighted to have signed this agreement with Diverso, which we hope will unlock a major market for us.?

Diverso?s mandate is to arrange and secure collaborative research projects or licensing agreements between the Company and third party commercialisation partners in the People?s Republic of China.

Stephen Edkins, Partner at Diverso, said: ?We believe Ilika?s ability to rapidly develop novel materials suitable for the cleantech sector is of tremendous value to companies based in China. Growth in China?s R&D spending has averaged over 20% annually and, with strong government backing, we expect this trend to continue. ?