BetaDen, a first-of-its-kind dynamic launchpad for tech entrepreneurs in the heart of Worcestershire, has announced the first seven participants in its tech accelerator programme.
The first cohort into the accelerator spans emerging tech industries including healthcare, entertainment, sensors and security IoT.
Together the cohort is aiming to tackle some of the toughest challenges today’s businesses are facing, from data and privacy to the UK’s productivity crisis.
To achieve this, they will receive a nine-month programme of support at Malvern Hills Science Park designed to build their ideas and ready them for market launch, or catalyse the growth of their existing business.
Worcestershire is becoming one of the fastest growing economies in the UK, home to more than 17,500 cyber and digital companies and set to become the UK’s next big technology hub.
The region is also home to the Worcestershire 5G Testbed, which is driving advanced manufacturing innovation in the UK as part of the Government’s drive to move to Industry 4.0.
The successful companies joining BetaDen as part of the first cohort include GBR14, a cyber security start-up developing next generation technology in data protection and privacy; Orth Oracle, an independent resource of practical information for both experienced surgeons as well as those in training; and Shedeo, a start-up focused on the gaming industry due to launch its first game in 2019.
They will be joined by Solution Spark, a company that uses advances in images and video processing to allow companies to innovate and increase productivity; Syndial, a blockchain company focused on developing an alternative consensus algorithm for decentralised immutable ledgers; Titania, the world leaders in configuration analysis tools, helping to protect over 27 million end users; and Worcester Scientific, a nano sensor start-up.
“I’m delighted to announce our first cohort as a group of enterprising entrepreneurs, tech start-ups and individuals with inspiring ideas,” said BetaDen founder and chief executive Linda Smith.
“Their new home will provide them with the support they need to accelerate their businesses to the next level and position them at the forefront of future technology opportunities.
“Worcestershire continues to expand its growing network of industry and technology experts and we not only look forward to welcoming our second cohort later this year, but also engaging with local businesses, investors and entrepreneurs to discuss the exciting opportunities ahead.”
Mark Stansfeld, chair of the Worcestershire 5G Consortium, said: “The announcement of the first BetaDen cohort builds on the fantastic innovation already happening across the region.
“The newly launched accelerator at Malvern Hills Science Park, the Worcestershire 5G Testbed, and the recent Urban Connected Communities funding for the region all put the Midlands at the heart of digital transformation in the UK, making it the best place to do business and invest.”
Those interested in joining the second cohort will have the opportunity to apply from early Spring 2019.