Technology, innovation and entrepreneurship comes together at South West Innovation Expo

The talent and economic importance of the region’s technology sector is showcased at the South West Innovation Expo, bringing together leading South West technology companies, innovators, entrepreneurs and investors to see innovation in action, meet and collaborate. The region’s flagship technology and business event, SW Innovation Expo will host panel discussions, an interactive technology showcase, Pitchfest competition and networking opportunities.

Andrew Dean, University of Exeter, says, “The pandemic has confirmed that technology is shaping the future for every type of business. When we look ahead to the global challenges facing us all we can see that new technology and innovation offers solutions and a way forward. At SW Innovation Expo we are bringing together some of very best innovators and investors to support the ongoing development of the technology sector in the region. We have a fantastic line-up of speakers and exhibitors and are looking forward to welcoming delegates from across the business spectrum who want to learn, understand and adapt.”

The keynote speech will be delivered by Dhiraj Mukherjee, Co-Founder of Shazam and experienced investor in tech start-ups. Recognised by the Financial Times as one of Europe’s Top 50 technology entrepreneurs Dhiraj’s keynote address will focus on his experience of pitching to investors, advice for start-up businesses and entrepreneurs and his insight into emerging technology.

Dhiraj will also speak to start-up businesses taking part in Pitchfest at the event, a free opportunity for tech start-up founders to pitch their businesses to an audience of influencers and investors. Pitching businesses include Paranimo, creators of a technology platform that matches vulnerable people to the right mental health support; VetScript Technologies using technology to ease veterinary workloads by automating prescribing, consent and insurance claim processes and

The Honestly Good Smoothie Co, creators of 100% organic, ready-to-blend smoothie kits delivered direct to households nationwide.

Delegates can also access sessions with leading industry experts sharing their knowledge on key themes including Leadership and Management with expert advice for SME’s, innovators and entrepreneurs on utilising networks and collaborations to support innovation and growth. The session on the SW green revolution looks at business growth opportunities from a more circular economy in the region while other session strands include Innovation on a Budget, Diversification, Business Resilience, Attracting and working with investors and the South West’s Blue Revolution.

Attendees have the chance to experience for themselves some of the most exciting technology developed in the region in the Innovation Showcase, including Hydro Surv with its uncrewed surface vehicle for future ocean data acquisition and the School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics RTU agricultural robotic platform.

HotSWLEP will also launch Technopole at SW Innovation Expo, a virtual support platform to enterprises providing advice on access to academic expertise, funding and collaboration opportunities, peer to peer learning, themed events and funding.

A collaboration between University of Exeter, Falmouth University and University of Plymouth, SW Innovation Expo is supported, sponsored and partnered by KTN, Innovate UK, Michelmores / MAINStream, Heart of the South West LEP, British Business Bank, SWCoESA, Thomas Westcott, Exeter Live Better, Impact Lab, Exeter Science Park, Plymouth Science Park, Devon County Council, One Voice Media & PR Ltd, EXIST and SETSquared Exeter.

Tickets for SW Innovation Expo are now on sale. Visit www.swinnovationexpo.co.uk  

Exhibition space is available at SW Innovation Expo – for more information visit www.swinnovationexpo.co.uk