Wales’s digital dozen shine in London

A group of innovative, high-growth Welsh tech start-ups took part in a successful trade mission to London last Thursday.

The businesses pitched their ideas and products to investors and industry heavy-weights at an event that took place in London’s Digital Catapult Centre.

Six start-ups were selected to take part in the trip. These include agile fintech platforms, cutting-edge social media tracking software and an app designed to streamline healthcare.

They took to the stage to discuss how their businesses have developed over the years and to discuss their products. More than 50 potential investors attended the event.

It was organised by Innovation Point, the Welsh Government-backed company set up to drive technology in Wales, in a bid to showcase the innovations and inventions coming out of the nation.

Richard Moore, head of investments at Calculus Capital, said: “It’s clear that Wales is starting to emerge as a fertile ground for tech start-ups and investment.

“It’s an exciting time for the nation and its tech space. As an investor, it’s great to see Innovation Point driving forward this initiative.”

David Murray-Hundley, a successful tech entrepreneur, added: “The tech scene is good right now for investment – there is still a lot of noise in the UK around it and some gems exist out there. Tech start-ups are not just in London, and I’m always keen to see what is coming out of other areas.”

The line-up of companies consisted of Delio, DevOpsGuys, Echosec, Elidir Health, Learnium and Wealthify. They all pitched for potential support and funding from the investors.

Jason Jubinville, co-founder and senior executive of Echosec, one of the start-ups at the event, said: “Access to Innovation Point’s network, expertise, and talented team has provided Echosec with a number of incredible opportunities to connect with engaged, industry-relevant investors. Their vision of a start-up rich Wales aligns perfectly with our vision for growth.”

David Warrender, chief executive of Innovation Point, said: “Innovation Point strives to know what new technologies are being developed, and uses this information to cultivate the very best of Welsh innovation.

“Through events like this, we make it easier for entrepreneurs and small businesses to build partnerships and for investors to participate in these exciting growth opportunities.”