Tech Nation has been acquired by Founders Forum Group.
The growth platform for tech scaleups closed its doors at the end of last month after the government instead awarded the £12.1 million Digital Growth Grant to Barclays Eagle Labs in a shock move.
In the days prior Tech Nation was in talks with Founders Forum, a global community and group of businesses supporting entrepreneurs at every stage of their journeys.
Now the deal has closed. Some of Tech Nation’s almost 50 staff, including mid-stage scaling lead Mo Aldalou – who has joined Baltic Ventures as programme director – have already moved on.
FF plans to revive several of Tech Nation’s programmes and tech sector reports, and also manage its Global Talent visa scheme.
Tech Nation founding CEO Gerard Grech and director Sarah Wood join the Founders Forum Group’s Tech Nation Advisory Board.
Grech wrote on LinkedIn: “This exciting milestone will see Founders Forum Group continue Tech Nation’s mission to empower tech entrepreneurs, scale innovative startups and provide a united platform for UK tech founders.
“With Tech Nation’s expertise in supporting and promoting startups & scale-ups, and Founders Forum’s global network and resources, UK tech looks well-positioned to drive even greater growth and innovation going forward.
“Thank you to everyone who has supported Tech Nation and been part of the journey. As well as many of you who have sent messages of support over the last few months and the whole Tech Nation team, past and present for making it happen!
“Here’s to the next chapter of UK tech!”
Brent Hoberman CBE, FF Group co-founder and chair, said: “By recognising and fostering remarkable digital talent and accelerating startup success nationwide, Tech Nation has positioned the UK as a world-class innovation hub.”
Digital Minister Paul Scully added: “Founders Forum Group will build on this by continuing the work of Tech Nation, which will complement our ongoing support for the sector.”