Glimpse of future at funding day
Apr 23 2009 by Stewart Watkins, The Journal
IT is with great anticipation that I look forward to an event where some of the North East’s most innovative young companies will pitch their ideas to a panel of experienced investors.
Having witnessed the development of two of these first hand, I am really excited to see them take the next steps to propel them on to the main stage.
Both ANTnano plc and Roar Particles plc are companies that are integral to the fabric of NETPark, the fast-growing science and technology park in Sedgefield, and both will be pitching for up to £1m each at a prestigious investment conference this month.
They are two of the nine cutting-edge companies selected to bid for funding at the Secure Futures Investment Conference to be held at Hardwick Hall on April 28.
The event, which focuses on the security sector, will host some of the most exciting science and technology companies in the country as well as offering unparalleled networking opportunities for companies keen to make key contacts in the security sector.
County Durham is already gaining a significant reputation for its expertise in the science and technology sector and the conference offers the opportunity for companies to access funding or information to commercialise their research work.
While the pitching companies are all based in the North East, the investors are from around the UK and have considerable experience in investing, mentoring and running businesses in the technology sector.
All of the pitchers offer technical solutions to security problems, but vary enormously in scope, demonstrating the tremendous variety of innovation taking place in this industry.
ANTnano plc deals with the monitoring, sampling and analysis of hazardous biochemicals that could be inhaled in the workplace or the general environment.
Roar Particles plc is dedicated to the research, development and manufacture of nanotechnologies for forensic and counter terrorism purposes. And the other companies are equally varied.
The event promises to be both vibrant and exciting and will offer a glimpse of what the future holds for the security industry.
Delegates at the event will be given an insight into the latest innovations and will be able to make some excellent contacts in the security sector, both in private organisations and in government.
For more information on the Secure Futures Investment Conference log on to www.connectnortheast.com
