Innovators pitch their business ideas
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A PROTOTYPE mobile satellite bringing broadband to unconnected locations, was among several new ideas pitched Dragon’s Den-style by a group of Highland entrepreneurs.
Along with Inverness firm External Reality Limited’s mobile satellite solution, the other ideas pitched to potential investors were: Aurora Sustainability Ltd’s bio-refining applications for mushrooms; Creativity in Care CIC’s communications solutions for people with communication or memory difficulties; Forbovi Limited ideas to improve health in dairy cattle; Kazbeg Ltd’s scientific consulting and technical writing service; Orrin Equestrian Products Ltd’s revolutionary horse saddle design; Pinnacle Business Solutions Ltd’s engineering and construction project streamlining software; and Visual Performance Management’s software providing manufacturers with real-time information on their production process.
The eight entrepreneurs recently completed the Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) 12-week Pathfinder Accelerator programme to help them bring new ideas to market more quickly and at less expense.
Open to small and medium sized companies in the life sciences, engineering and technology sectors, it is delivered by specialist coaches and takes place across the Highlands with sessions in Inverness, Caithness, Skye and Lochaber.
The programme culminates in a pitch to a panel of prospective investors and partners.
James Cameron, HIE’s head of life sciences, said: "The Highlands and Islands benefits from a strong profile of life sciences and technology expertise; sectors which typically deliver high levels of innovation.
"Commercial success of any new idea depends on a strong business model and being able to reach the right market. The Pathfinder programme not only guides companies and start-ups through this process but assists with funding, networking and expert insight."
The next Pathfinder Programme sessions take place in Inverness and Thurso in the autumn. More details can be found online at http://nih.hie.co.uk/pathfinder
