Staff news

Technology talent on show

An event showcasing more than 40 computer science start-ups was held at the University’s Informatics Forum this month.

Informatics business event

Now in its third year, the annual Engage Invest Explore (EIE) is organised by the School of Informatics’ commercialisation wing, Informatics Ventures, in partnership with Scottish Enterprise and the European Region Development Fund.

Platform for investment

It provides a platform for Scottish technology talent to pitch to and network with investors and entrepreneurs.

Six companies pitching at the showcase were affiliated to the School of Informatics.

One of those, vibio.com, secured investment worth $1 million from Archangel Informal Investment Limited.

This year’s event drew around 200 investors including representation from Google, BSkyB, Scottish Water, Silicon Valley Bank and Balderton Capital.

Informatics excellence

The University’s School of Informatics is the largest Computer Science department in Europe and is regarded as one of the top four in the world.

Informatics Ventures was established in 2008 to support and nurture the creation of software companies in Scotland.

Edinburgh is in the top tier of UK universities in terms of successfully commercialising our programmes. The EIE event provides a great platform to engage our world-class invention with the businesses capable of realising its huge commercial potential.
Andrew MitchellProject Leader, Informatics Ventures