Thomas, a leader and entrepreneur in the insect farming sector, founded Beta Bugs after spotting the opportunity for improved genetics to accelerate the growth of insect farming industry.
With support from private and public sector funders, Thomas established an industry-first nucleus population and selective breeding programme for Black Soldier Fly in Edinburgh, Scotland, based adjacent to the Roslin Institute, world leader in animal genetics.
Since then, the company has created 16 jobs, established the UK’s first dedicated Black Soldier Fly egg production facility and is supplying UK and international insect farmers. In Q4 2023, Thomas secured a further £1.7M in grant and equity funding to up-scale the business’ production, sales and breeding programme capabilities. Thomas believes that for the insect industry to reach its full potential, it will need to specialize and horizontally segment. Beta Bugs and genetics form part of this supply chain, supplying quality, genetically improved livestock that are used by insect farmers.
