The aim of the competition is to encourage PhD and postdoc entrepreneurship in the North of the UK and the greater flow of investment into areas which have great potential for growth.
A number of presentations guiding applicants in the creation of an impactful business proposal were given by highly experienced entrepreneurs and investors as part of the competition.
A shortlist of 3 finalists was selected from the entrants. who then pitched their business plans to the investors and entrepreneurs:
Louis Allen (SMS)
Kieran O'Regan (About Energy)
Noukhez Ahmed (Twin Dynamics)
Louis Allen's presentation and pitch proved to be the clear winner, with its focus on smart manufacturing technologies, and SMS will receive the competition prize of $20,000 in investment along with additional mentoring support to help accelerate their growth. SMS is based in Sheffield, South Yorkshire.
R42 Group is a venture fund and an institute which invents, invests and informs covering AI, deep science, 5G mobile, biotech and fintech.
Mandashi is a family investment fund which invests in innovation that makes a positive difference to our world and local community.
