Bangalore, 11th February 2013 – 16 of the UK’s rising technology start-ups have this week kicked off the long anticipated Web Mission 2013. Over an eventful seven days (9th-16th February), split between Bangalore and New Delhi, the participants will learn firsthand how to accelerate their business internationally as they meet with influential business figures keen to help them turn their Indian dreams into realities.Supported by the Technology Strategy Board and UK Trade & Investment (UKTI), and organised by The Long Run Venture and the Co-Sponsorship Agency, this Mission will showcase the growth opportunities available to these selected UK start-ups - companies that can offer India transformational products and services, but need to find out more about how their technology can support India’s populace.
David Bott, Director of Innovation Programmes at the UK’s innovation agency the Technology Strategy Board, commented: “The fast growth-rate of technology industries in India is exceeding that of other markets and it is essential that UK companies work with the Indian business community to establish ties within this thriving industry. These participants have the opportunity to establish connections, secure investment and be inspired, to help launch their business into an evolving technology market.”
The Mission agenda, already underway in Bangalore, includes visits to the well-established Electronic City, where participants will meet with successful Indian exports including Infosys and Wipro as well as emerging start-ups from the local community. A hub of technological creativity, the Bangalore visit will allow participants to absorb innovation in action, by witnessing real-life case studies of India’s digital society, renewable power and affordable healthcare, making a difference to low income groups and the emerging middle classes.
Peter Ward, Chief Executive of Wayn has been on a previous Web Mission “WebMission 2008 was where it all began. To meet so many like-minded entrepreneurs and be taken on a roller coaster journey of the tech scene outside of London, was eye-opening, inspiring, and fostered the relationships with entrepreneurs from the community, who I now regard as good friends, 5 years later. “
From here the mission will depart to New Delhi and have a practical and financial focus as participants have the opportunity to consolidate key business partnerships. Learning about the country’s macro and micro opportunities available, from open data and e-governance through to enterprise, guest advisors including Ericson, Logica and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry will provide companies with strategic insight into how best to integrate their innovation into this market.
Having played a significant role in helping to secure over £180 million in funding to help some of the UK’s tech start-up success stories including Crisp Thinking and Brave New Talent, previous Mission participants have also commented on the strong business community that has evolved from attending the trip.
Mission Alumni Bruce Hellman, uMotif said: “By establishing some key connections when on my Mission, I was able to take my business to the next level.
You can follow the progress of these companies during their visit at http://webmission.com/ or on twitter at: https://twitter.com/TheWebMission