Gateway2investment (g2i) has helped early stage technology companies in London secure more than £5m of investment in the last 12 months.
Backed by the London Development Agency (LDA), g2i aims to strengthen and develop the capital’s position as a global centre for science and technology.
The group provides tailored support, advice and market knowledge to entrepreneurs, helping them to prepare their business plans and improving their chances of gaining investment.
The group has been successful in enticing business angels and venture capitalists to invest in businesses in London.
So far, the group has helped 12 businesses attracted a combined total of over £5m, developed the propositions of 108 different firms and 62 companies have been selected for the G2i Investment Readiness Programme.
However, despite their success board member Sarika Patel says the group and London as a whole cannot afford to get complacent.
She said: “London has a dominant position in Europe but cannot afford to rest on its laurels.
“The evidence suggests early stage companies in London fare less well than the UK average when it comes to private investment as well as in securing grants and awards.
“Future success will only come by building up the flow of new technology companies to the investment market.
“In its first year, g2i has proven itself to be a key catalyst for bringing together the expertise needed to arm technology companies with compelling business propositions and I am confident it will continue to deliver these benefits to the capital.”
© Crimson Business Ltd 2006
