Reach and Rescue has emerged victorious at Venturefest North West 2018, capturing the overall award in front of an audience of hundreds at Manchester Central.
The Wigan-based company has developed a 17-metre versatile rescue pole, utilised by 80 per cent of the UK’s fire and emergency services. The device, aimed at ‘reaching out to save lives,’ was praised for its innovative yet straightforward approach. Patricia Keating, a key figure on the event’s Three Tribes panel, commended the invention as ‘a simple approach to innovation,’ highlighting the effectiveness of well-thought-out engineering.
Furthermore, Reach and Rescue is currently adapting the rescue pole for animal rescue operations in collaboration with the RSPCA. Their success came after competing against 12 other finalists, each presenting their groundbreaking ideas.
The digital innovation category saw Corporation Pop win for its Xploro mobile application. The app employs 3D augmented reality interactive models and games to help children prepare for hospital visits, significantly reducing their stress and anxiety levels. The pitch delivered by CEO Dom Raban was described by Keating as ‘the perfect pitch.’
Meanwhile, the innovative established business award was secured by Whitham Mills Engineering from Rochdale. They impressed with their food waste tipping solution. Urban Chain triumphed in the service innovation category for its blockchain-based platform, which allows consumers to switch to better energy deals instantly.
In the audience-voted competition, Telcom, represented by Doug Ward, won with its Node technology. This innovation connects landlords and tenants, enhancing property management efficiency. Corporation Pop and Brain In Hand were the runners-up in this segment.
The event was expertly hosted by CEO Priya Lakhani, adding another layer of prestige to the highly anticipated showcase. The other noteworthy finalists included Fulfilment Crowd, Call Me Help, Clyz Labs, Million Stars Sustainable Events, Radic8, and Redman Racing Boats.
The diverse range of winners and finalists at Venturefest North West 2018 highlights the impressive array of innovative solutions being developed across various sectors. These trailblazing ideas promise to make significant impacts in their respective fields.
