I am Natalio Krasnogor, a researcher, entrepreneur and writer working at the intersection of science, technology and business. I direct the Interdisciplinary Computing and Complex BioSystems (ICOS) research group at Newcastle University, where my team explores synthetic biology, biosecurity, unconventional computing and DNA data storage. Alongside my academic work, I have founded two companies: GitLife Biotech, advancing tools for traceability and security in engineering biology, and Workli, a platform to help knowledge workers achieve deep focus and sustained productivity via remote, one-to-one personalised productivity coaching.

This blog is where I bring together years of experience in winning grants, building research programmes and securing investment for new ventures. It is a space to share candid, practical insights into the art and craft of grant writing, as well as the strategies that underpin successful funding applications across disciplines. I write not only about tactics and templates but also about the broader mindset required to navigate the complex and competitive world of fundraising.

The blog is for academics who need to fund ambitious research, entrepreneurs seeking capital to scale their startups, and leaders of not-for-profit organisations looking to secure resources to drive social impact. If you want to learn how to write stronger applications, avoid common mistakes, and approach funders with confidence, you are in the right place.

Here you will find no quick fixes or hollow promises, but tested approaches, practical tools, and honest reflections. My aim is to help you become a more effective grant seeker and, ultimately, to enable your ideas to make a difference.