Cacto Secures £15,000 Funding from University of West England
Cacto, the innovative soft drink manufacturer, has achieved a significant milestone by securing £15,000 in funding from the University of West England‘s Entrepreneurial Futures Award. This financial boost will pave the way for the brand’s ambitious expansion plans, which include a rebrand and the launch of two new products in February 2024.
In a competitive selection process involving more than 60 businesses, Cacto emerged as a standout choice, showcasing not only potential but also tangible traction in the market.
Founded in 2020 by Sam Jukes, a Bristol native and a former student of the University of West England, Cacto has been making waves with its range of sparkling drinks crafted from prickly pear cactus fruits.
The exciting news revolves around the imminent addition of two new products to Cacto’s lineup, both crafted from Sicilian prickly pear fruit. These forthcoming SKUs promise to be low in calories while packing a punch in terms of electrolytes, particularly magnesium and potassium.
What’s more, prickly pears are celebrated for being a rich source of electrolytes, vitamins, calcium, and antioxidants, including phenolic acid.
The passionate founder behind Cacto, has always believed in the holistic health benefits of the prickly pear fruit. Growing up in Bristol, the very city where the University of West England is based, Jukes’ connection to the region is deep-rooted.
Furthermore, his unwavering commitment to promoting the benefits of prickly pear fruit laid the foundation for the Cacto brand.
Upon receiving the £15,000 funding from the University of West England, Jukes expressed his delight, emphasising the immense value it brings to their burgeoning business. He believes this funding will enable Cacto to broaden its range of drinks, offering consumers the opportunity to enjoy health drinks that stand out from the crowd.
However, Cacto’s mission extends beyond merely providing delicious and nutritious drinks. In a world grappling with water scarcity and the environmental impacts of agriculture, prickly pears shine as an eco-friendly solution. These hardy plants require minimal water to flourish, a fact that deeply resonates with the Cacto team.
In a remarkable display of corporate social responsibility, Cacto pledges to donate a portion of its net profits to Water.org, a charitable organisation dedicated to providing clean drinking water to those in need.
This commitment underscores Cacto’s vision for a better world, where health-conscious choices align with sustainable practices.
As we usher further into 2024, Cacto is poised for an exciting journey ahead. The brand remains steadfast in its mission to normalise the prickly pear, and in making health drinks accessible to all. With their unique offerings and ethical values, Cacto sets a refreshing example in the beverage industry, where innovation and purpose blend seamlessly.
In conclusion, Cacto’s £15,000 funding win from the University of West England signifies not just a financial boost but a testament to their commitment to health, sustainability, and innovation.
As they embark on the path to rebranding and new product launches, Cacto’s journey promises to quench not only their customer’s thirst but also their desire for a healthier, more eco-conscious future.
This partnership with the University only exemplifies the potential of young businesses to make a positive impact on both local and global scales, all while staying true to their roots and values.
News Credits: Soft drink maker awarded £15K in funding by UK university
Things you may also like to know:
- Sweetdreams Confectionery Acquired by SugaRich
- Calbee UK Boosts Production with Fabcon Food Systems Partnership
- MYCO Holdings Sets the Stage for Sustainable Food Manufacturing