The Innovative Entrepreneurs programme supported Kareemuddin, founder of KNAFT, through coaching to identify the most relevant avenues for his business to further enhance and scale the impact of KNAFT’s innovations.

Purpose of Support

Kareemuddin entered the programme with a wealth of technical expertise, his goal was to deepen his understanding of business strategy, entrepreneurship, and how to effectively navigate the path to commercial success.

Kareemuddin is the visionary founder of KNAFT Ltd, a company at the forefront of design and engineering innovative solutions to positively impact the sustainable energy and fuels sector. His wealth of experience, combined with a passion for driving progress in clean energy, has positioned KNAFT as a leader in developing groundbreaking technologies aimed at addressing some of the world's most pressing environmental challenges.

Before establishing KNAFT, Kareemuddin has enjoyed a distinguished global career as a process engineer, specialist and consultant applying his deep technical expertise to bring innovative concepts from the lab to market, he has an extensive portfolio of patents.

Challenges Faced

Multiple industry verticals seeking to decarbonise and adopt clean technology have presented challenges for KNAFT in identifying the readiest opportunities for adoption and full deployment.

The programme provided him with the structure and coaching needed to better understand and explore these opportunities, enabling him to identify the most relevant avenues for KNAFT.

Engagement Process

Kareemuddin joined the Innovative Entrepreneurs programme seeking to further enhance and scale the impact of KNAFT’s innovations.

The engagement began with a thorough exploration of market opportunities and an in-depth understanding of the complexities of the burgeoning carbon capture industry, culminating in a clear plan with actionable steps.

Regular coaching sessions allowed Kareemuddin to test hypotheses fluidly and explore various avenues. By employing subtle decision-making strategies, he successfully developed a proposal for a pre-feasibility project with an industrial partner.

The coaching relationship established at the outset proved transformative, delivering significant outcomes for KNAFT.

Whats Next?

The company is well-positioned to deliver high-impact solutions that address the global need for cleaner, more efficient energy sources.

Kareemuddin’s journey from scientist to entrepreneur underscores the importance of combining technical knowledge with entrepreneurial vision to create technologies that benefit both business and society. His participation in the Innovative Entrepreneurs programme has empowered him to turn KNAFT into a scalable, impactful enterprise that is set to contribute significantly to the future of the sustainable energy and fuels sector. Kareemuddin is now able to further his project with the support of Innovate UK and the wrap around support provided by Innovate UK Business Growth.

Support Outcomes and Benefits

By the end of the nine-month coaching programme, there has been significant strides in advancing KNAFT’s objectives. One of the key milestones was Kareemuddin’s successful presentation of a proposal to a manufacturer, who expressed strong interest in collaborating with KNAFT to tackle their carbon capture challenges. This potential partnership opens doors to implement its innovative technologies in real-world industrial applications, addressing a critical issue in the transition to a low-carbon future.

In addition to carbon capture, the collaboration also highlighted further opportunities in circular economy practices and industrial symbiosis. These practices aim to reduce waste and optimise resource use across industries, aligning with KNAFT’s mission to contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious energy sector. The manufacturer’s interest marks a pivotal step for Kareemuddin, as it represents a tangible pathway to commercialise KNAFT’s technologies and amplify the company’s impact on sustainability.

Quote from Advisor

It has been an absolute pleasure to work alongside Kareemuddin over the past nine months. I am genuinely in awe of his remarkable technical capabilities and his ability to work deeply and intensely to fully understand and resolve complex challenges. His approach embodies dedication, integrity, discipline, and professionalism, and I don’t think I have ever met anyone as calm, focused, grounded, and kind.

Kareemuddin’s unwavering commitment to his work is truly inspiring, and I have every confidence that he will continue to grow KNAFT Ltd into a significant player in the sustainable energy sector. His blend of technical brilliance and steady, empathetic leadership sets him apart, and I look forward to seeing the impact KNAFT will make on the future of sustainable energy.

Quote from Client

Gail’s coaching style is both motivating and empowering. She provides insightful feedback and constructive advice that has helped me overcome obstacles and maintain focus on my goals. Her support goes beyond traditional coaching – she genuinely invests in the success of her mentees, offering continuous encouragement and holding us accountable to our commitments.

Thanks to Gail’s strategic approach and unwavering support, I’ve put together a strategy to progress KNAFT towards deploying the technology. Her expertise in business support has equipped us with the tools and confidence needed to navigate the complexities of this potential deployment opportunity.

I wholeheartedly recommend Gail Cherry to any business seeking to enhance their performance and achieve their strategic objectives. Her dedication, knowledge, and personalized approach make her an exceptional coach and a true partner in success.