Keynote guest speakers announced ahead of this year’s Venturefest
Ian Vickers Founder of METCLOUD and Emma Jones CBE Founder of Enterprise Nation have been announced as the keynote speakers for this year’s Venturefest.
Taking place on March 24, Venturefest offers the opportunity for entrepreneurs, innovators and investors to share ideas for co-operation and collaboration. The keynote speakers were selected based on their outstanding contributions to the field of science and emerging technologies.
The event is being led by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and Innovation Alliance WM, working with local enterprise partnerships, universities and Bruntwood, a leading property provider to the science and tech sector. It is being backed by several key sponsors including the Midlands Engine Investment Fund. Tickets can be booked at today.
Since launching METCLOUD in 2017, Ian Vickers has become recognised for his innovation after creating one of the most secure cybersecurity platforms in the UK.
Ian has won dozens of internationally recognised awards for innovation and has raised £1 million `seed’ funding from Midlands Engine Investment Fund (MEIF). During his session, Ian will share insights into his success and the barriers, opportunities, collaborations and support along the way.
Similarly, launching in 2005, the Enterprise Nation has helped thousands of people start and grow their businesses. Led by founder Emma Jones CBE, Enterprise Nation continues to be the most active UK small business community and a leading campaigning voice for small business. During her keynote speech she will outline three key routes to growing a small business in 2022 with top tips on how to sell to bigger brand clients and make the most of the international trade opportunity.
Running alongside the event will be Minerva Birmingham Pitch Up, which is a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style competition enabling businesses to raise their profile both in the West Midlands and in front of a national audience of investors. Business owners are invited to present their ideas in a pitch for investment.
Nathan Guest, corporate partner & head of technology at VWV LLP, who is a sponsor at this year’s event, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be sponsoring Venturefest this year and to be supporting Midlands-based science and emerging technology businesses.
“Venturefest is a great opportunity for us to reinforce our commitment to the fast-growing Midlands tech sector as it enters its golden era. It provides a great platform for entrepreneurs, investors and innovators to meet and engage, collaborate through sharing ideas and experience, and gain invaluable insight not only into the sector but also into growing a successful tech business. It is a really exciting event to be part of and we are thrilled to be able to play a key role.”
Venturefest will take place on Thursday March 24 at the Eastside Rooms, Woodcock Street, Birmingham B7 4BL, from 8:30am to 5pm.
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