UK tech network Tech Nation has unveiled the 30 fast-growing tech start-ups selected for its Upscale programme. This initiative, now in its fourth year, aims to assist these young companies in navigating the challenges associated with scaling up.
Chosen from over 100 applications, these start-ups will receive coaching from some of the UK’s most successful entrepreneurs and start-up founders over the next six months. The selected companies span various tech sub-sectors, emphasising the diversity and innovation within the UK’s tech industry.
Overview of the Upscale Programme
The Upscale programme, now in its fourth year, is designed to help fast-growth tech companies progress to the next stage. Over the course of six months, selected companies will receive mentorship from some of the UK’s leading entrepreneurs and start-up founders.
The initiative aims to address the unique challenges that high-growth start-ups face, providing support in areas such as scaling operations, strategic planning, and leadership development.
Participants will benefit from the experience and insights of successful business leaders, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to achieve sustained growth.
Diverse Sectors Represented
The 2019 cohort includes start-ups from various tech sub-sectors, highlighting the programme’s diverse reach. A significant portion of the selected companies operate within the fintech and e-commerce sectors.
Among the London-based start-ups are Airsorted, Automata, Cleo AI, Doctify, Fluidly, Hubble, OLIO Exchange Limited, OpenRent, and Patch Gardens Ltd. Other notable inclusions are Bristol’s BookingLive, Coventry’s Fertility Focus, and Brighton & Hove’s FUTRLI.
Notable Mentors and Coaches
The programme features prominent mentors such as Brent Hoberman, co-founder of Lastminute.com, and Saul Klein, founder of Lovefilm. Their involvement brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the participants.
Past coaches have also included notable figures like Greg Marsh, co-founder of One Fine Stay, and Lesley Eccles, founder of FanDuel.com, who have guided previous cohorts through various growth-related challenges.
These mentors provide practical advice and support, drawing from their own experiences to help start-ups navigate the complexities of scaling a business.
Government Support and Vision
Margot James, Minister for Creative and Digital Industries, emphasised the government’s commitment to making the UK the best place to start and grow a business. She highlighted the ambition and success of fast-growth companies in driving the UK’s tech leadership.
The government’s Digital and Industrial Strategies aim to leverage the power of technology to improve people’s lives, supporting initiatives like the Upscale programme as part of this broader vision.
Such support underscores the importance of fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within the tech sector, ensuring the UK remains at the forefront of technological advancements.
Challenges of Scaling and Leadership
During the launch, participants heard from industry leaders such as Aneesh Varma, Founder & CEO of Aire, and Angie Ma, Co-founder & COO of ASI Data Science, on the challenges of scaling and leadership.
Cherry Freeman, Founder of LoveCrafts, also shared insights on the hurdles of managing rapid growth and maintaining effective leadership within a fast-paced environment.
These discussions provided valuable lessons on overcoming common obstacles, helping start-ups prepare for the demands of scaling their businesses.
A Focus on Future Growth
As OLIO transitions from Series A to being Series B-ready, Co-Founder & CEO Tessa Clarke expressed excitement about the benefits of participating in Upscale 4.0. This reflects the forward-looking focus of the programme.
The emphasis on preparing companies for future growth stages highlights the programme’s role in fostering sustainable development and long-term success.
By equipping start-ups with the necessary tools and insights, Upscale 4.0 aims to ensure participants are well-prepared to capitalise on future opportunities.
Conclusion of the Programme
The Upscale programme continues to play a vital role in supporting the UK’s tech start-up ecosystem, helping companies navigate the complexities of scaling and growth.
With a robust support system and access to experienced mentors, participants are well-positioned to achieve their growth ambitions.
The selection of these 30 start-ups underscores the vibrant and dynamic nature of the UK’s tech industry. By providing access to expertise and mentorship, the Upscale programme aims to equip these companies with the skills needed for continued success.
Through initiatives like this, the UK maintains its position as a leading hub for tech innovation and entrepreneurship, driving progress and development in various sectors.
