In this conversation, Mariana Fazenda shares her academic journey from biotechnology to her current role as a Programme Manager at EIT Food. She discusses her experience with the University of Strathclyde spin-out ENOUGH (formerly 3FBio), which originated from a bag of expired wheat, and the challenges and successes in commercialisation. Mariana emphasises the importance of supportive environments, building trust, and creating a research culture that supports commercialisation. She also reflects on her time at the University of Cambridge and offers insights into improving the commercialisation support system in the UK.