Twenty entrepreneurs from Bristol have been named on an exclusive list of the top 50 innovators helped by SETsquared, the global number one university business incubator.
SETsquared, which is backed by a number of universities including the University of Bristol, supports high-growth tech companies that have significant economic impact. Member firms have collectively raised more than £1bn of investment and created 9,000-plus jobs. 
The names on the Top 50 list were selected from more than 1,000 entrepreneurs who have been supported by SETsquared over the last 15 years. The names were revealed at a reception at the House of Commons – with Bristol having more entrepreneurs on the list out of the five SETsquared centres.
The Bristol entrepreneurs are:
· Anthony Hollander of Azellon
· Ivor Gillbe of Bioinduction
· Henry Nurser of Blu Wireless Technology
· Andrew Mulvenna and Chris Tanner of Brightpearl
· John Brewster of Imetrum
· Robbie Allan of Lobster Pictures
· Roy Johnson of Micrima
· Toby Hughes of MoneyHub
· Nick Davis of Neighbourly
· Karl Wills of Pelipod
· Roger Pettman of Revolymer
· Dan Fairs, Andy Littledale and Ted Littledale of SecondSync
· Mike Bartley of TVS
· Tom Carter and Steve Cliffe of Ultrahaptics
· Mark Lippet of XMOS
· Gareth Williams of YellowDog
In addition, Bristol entrepreneurs Becky Sage of Interactive Scientific, and Emily and Barnaby Kent of My Action Replay were named as ‘Ones to Watch’.
Gareth Williams of YellowDog, an innovative platform that harnesses under-utilised computer power for fast animation rendering services, said: “I’m delighted to be named as one of the top 50 SETsquared entrepreneurs and to be included as part of such an illustrious group.
“YellowDog wouldn’t be where it is without SETsquared Bristol. We’ve been able to conclude several investment rounds, further develop our technology and expand in the short 24 months of our existence. Now our plans are for accelerated growth as we continue to build the world’s fastest supercomputer and take our technology to new markets.”
Interactive Scientific’s Becky Sage said: “Interactive Scientific has had an incredible 18 months, in terms of both business growth and the product development of Nano Simbox.
“The Nano Simbox platform uses rigorous science, interactive visuals and engaging experiences to make the invisible world visible for science learners and researchers. By understanding and physically interacting with globally impacting scientific challenges, we hope that we are providing the next generation of inspiring scientists and entrepreneurs the confidence and work skills to make a difference.
“It is an honour to be recognised in SETSquared’s One to Watch list, alongside so many inspiring entrepreneurs who create focused solutions to challenges that surround us. I am extremely proud to lead an ambitious and driven team, especially as we look ahead to the launch of Nano Simbox in 100 innovative schools this summer.”
The companies honoured have reached milestone achievements, including raising significant investment, exporting products globally, creating thousands of jobs or achieving a world first.
SETsquared worked with an expert panel of investors and innovation corporate leaders to select the 50, which includes companies from across various industries such as health, green technology and 5G and wireless communication.
Michael Queen, an investor on the panel, said: “Creating a successful business requires talented entrepreneurs and a great idea but this isn’t enough. SETsquared acts as a catalyst providing support, logistics, training and mentoring to turn dreams into reality.
“Over the last 15 years, SETsquared has made a major contribution to building a dynamic technology based business sector in the UK.”
The reception at the House of Commons was an opportunity for the entrepreneurs to celebrate their achievements along with MPs and special guests, as well as sharing stories on how they have successfully raised investment, exported products globally or had a major impact on their industry.
SETsquared Bath-based innovation director Simon Bond said: “When I look back on the last 15 years, I am overwhelmed by the talent and achievements of the entrepreneurs that SETsquared has supported.
“They have brought world-leading innovations to market and these have been exported across the globe. SETsquared has provided support and a network for these entrepreneurs including access to mentors, experts, international markets and investors, and they are now out there doing SETsquared and the UK proud.”
SETsquared Bristol centre director Monika Radclyffe added: “Tech entrepreneurs and high-growth companies are vital to the future of the UK economy. Bristol has always had a vibrant and thriving culture of innovation but without the right support these companies will not grow into global leaders. SETsquared has played a key role in supporting tech companies in the south of England, helping put Bristol on the global innovation map.”
The full top 50 list is at setsquared.co.uk/top50
Image: Bristol entrepreneurs and SETsquared staff celebrate the top 50 announcement
