Unveiling Catalyst 2020 line-up

Eight early stage businesses took a leap forward today as their founders began Catalyst 2020, Southampton Science Park’s prestigious business accelerator programme.

Following a competitive pitch process, the companies selected to take part this year have been announced as:

• 3D Generates, automating digital asset production and computer-generated imagery.
• Absolar, using artificial intelligence to accelerate the uptake of solar energy.
• Maverick Aviation, creator of a wearable jetpack, able to reach inaccessible terrains.
• Otsuka Health Solutions, improving mental healthcare with digital predictive analytics.
• Quantum Solutions, developing new nanomaterials for the optoelectronic industry.
• Sooba Medical, designing novel and improved urological devices for public healthcare.
• Zelemiq, providing support to SMEs developing new medical technology and devices.

Over the next six months, the founders of these companies will benefit from one-to-one mentoring and commercially focused workshops in their peer group of like-minded early stage science and technology businesses. They will benefit from having Southampton Science Park as their business home for the duration of the programme. On completion, participants will have created an investment-ready Business Plan, Management Team Plan and Funding Plan, as well as the knowledge and networks needed to fast-track their growth.

Absolar’s founder, Phil Wu, commented: “To gain a place in the 2020 Catalyst programme is absolutely fantastic. We are really looking forward to the wealth of expertise and guidance that it can provide to our newly formed team, helping us build on our recent success and propel us into a sustainable venture that delivers serious impact.”

Caroline Gadd, founder of Otsuka Health Solutions, added: “I am delighted to have been successful with the Catalyst programme. Having access to business development expertise and support is invaluable for an early stage business like ours. It seems that we have started on the right track and the Catalyst will help us to learn to grow our business and get a little closer towards achieving our vision.”

Nearly 60 companies have benefited from Southampton Science Park’s Catalyst business accelerator programme over the last eight years. These companies have raised over £15 million in grants and investments, with many primed for substantial growth.

To find out more or to express an interest in the next programme, click here.