Run by Cambridge Wireless and Silicon South West the free-to-enter Discovering Start-Ups competition will give 15 finalists the unique opportunity to pitch their ideas, technologies and business plans to 20 leading wireless industry investors and experts. This year, the line-up of judges includes senior executives from companies including BT, Google, Orange Labs, Qualcomm Ventures, Samsung and Vodafone Ventures as well as investors such as Cambridge Angels and NESTA.
“In its fourth year, Discovering Start-Ups is now recognised as one of the leading UK-wide showcases for the very best in wireless innovation and provides a great opportunity for budding entrepreneurs and new businesses to get noticed,” said Simon Bond, Founder of Silicon South West. “Any ambitious wireless start-up should jump at the chance to get in front of such a line-up of much sought-after investors and industry experts.”
Last year’s winning technologies included silicon carbide power semiconductors; a new software design automation system; a mobile-phone based service to detect skin cancer; a radical single-antenna for portable devices; and a web service to find and share information and resources.
"The UK has a strong tradition of innovation in technology and engineering and the Discovering Start-Ups challenge demonstrates that we still have a rich seam of up and coming creative and talented designers and entrepreneurs,” said Dr David Cleevely CBE, FREng FIET, Chair of Judges. “We are looking forward to reviewing this year’s entrants and spotting the technologies and individuals that will help drive the future of the wireless and mobile industry.”