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Innovative Support for UK Immersive Tech Start-ups

Innovative Support for UK Immersive Tech Start ups

In June 2018, a pioneering initiative to propel UK immersive tech start-ups is launching. This programme, a collaboration between Mercia Technologies and Digital Catapult’s Augmentor, is tailored to empower young companies specialising in virtual and augmented reality.

The 10-week programme offers an exceptional opportunity for businesses to receive guidance from industry experts and investors. By focusing on technical and business mentorship, this initiative aims to elevate the capabilities of emerging tech companies across diverse sectors in the United Kingdom.

Strategic Partnerships Driving Innovation

The collaboration between Mercia Technologies and Digital Catapult’s Augmentor programme marks a significant stride towards fostering innovation within the immersive tech landscape. By supporting early-stage immersive technology firms, this union seeks to develop the next wave of virtual and augmented reality technologies. Mercia’s active involvement in this sector is evidenced by its investments in leading companies such as nDreams, Gorilla in the Room, and Luminous Group.

Comprehensive Mentorship and Support

Augmentor provides a solid platform for emerging companies to hone their propositions before seeking seed investment. This programme is essential for companies aiming to build innovative applications of augmented and virtual reality across various fields, including digital health and manufacturing.

By establishing connections with key partners and mentors, businesses stand to gain invaluable insights and resources. This support is instrumental in helping participating companies thrive in competitive markets.

A Focus on Commercially-Focused Applications

The programme targets companies developing commercially viable applications of immersive technology.

By fostering innovation in areas like the creative industries, it aims to encourage the development of technologies that have a profound impact on everyday life.

Mentorship from industry experts is a cornerstone of the programme, ensuring that participants have the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed.

Critical Industry Endorsement

Chris Kilroy, Mercia investment manager, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting Augmentor as a “fantastic platform” for growing virtual and augmented reality businesses. This endorsement reflects the vital role that the partnership plays in shaping the future of the immersive tech industry in the UK.

Through collaborative efforts, the programme successfully attracts ambitious entrepreneurs eager to advance their innovations.

Opportunities for Early-Stage Technology Firms

With the deadline for application set for 23 May 2018, early-stage businesses in the UK are encouraged to seize the opportunity to join this exemplary programme.

Participants will gain direct access to industry veterans and investors, offering a competitive edge in their ventures.

Market-Driven Innovations

Innovations in digital health, creative industries, and manufacturing are fostered through Augmentor, which plays a pivotal role in shaping impactful technologies.

The guidance provided ensures that start-ups can align their products with market demands, thus enhancing their competitiveness in the tech landscape.

Such market-driven approaches to innovation are crucial for the long-term success of these enterprises.

Anticipating Future Technological Advancements

Looking ahead, the partnership between Mercia Technologies and Augmentor is set to continue driving advancements in immersive technologies throughout the United Kingdom.

This initiative is poised to nurture the next generation of tech leaders, ensuring sustained growth and development in the sector.


As the UK strives to maintain its position at the forefront of technological innovation, initiatives like the Mercia and Augmentor collaboration are indispensable. They provide emerging start-ups with the tools and support needed to excel in the expansive world of immersive technology. By harnessing expertise and fostering innovation, the programme promises to shape the future of tech across various sectors.

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