Norwich Research Park recently played host to a fierce competition, pitting eight innovative businesses against each other for a chance to win a year’s free virtual tenancy at the research park, along with a £500 cash prize—the event aimed to promote entrepreneurship and support promising startups in the region.
In a five-minute pitch, TraitSeq, a pioneering software company harnessing AI to predict agricultural traits for high-yield and climate-resistant crops and animal breeds, emerged victorious. The firm’s victory grants them access to invaluable resources such as funding, mentors, networks, and events, with the ultimate goal of accelerating their business’s growth.
TraitSeq wins top prize
In a competitive field of eight promising businesses, TraitSeq outshone the competition with their innovative approach to agriculture. Using advanced AI technology, they specialize in predicting agricultural traits that are essential for the development of high-yield and climate-resistant crops and animal breeds.
Their impressive five-minute pitch caught the attention of the judges, securing them the coveted top prize in the Innovation Hothouse competition.
Prize package offers growth opportunities
As part of their winnings, TraitSeq will enjoy a year’s free virtual tenancy at Norwich Research Park. This prime location provides them with a dynamic ecosystem of innovation and collaboration.
Beyond just office space, the company will also gain access to crucial resources that can significantly impact its growth trajectory. These resources include funding opportunities, mentorship programs, extensive networks, and participation in various business-related events.
While TraitSeq claimed the top spot, two other deserving companies also secured free tenancies at Norwich Research Park. OPAU, a pioneering waterless technology company, and Ediform, specializing in designing solutions for individuals with swallowing difficulties, showcased their innovative ideas and earned their places at the research park.
OPAU: Revolutionizing waterless technology
OPAU’s breakthrough approach to waterless technology impressed the judges and secured their spot at Norwich Research Park. Their innovative solutions have the potential to revolutionize water conservation and usage in various industries. The company’s inclusion in the research park community offers them the opportunity to further develop and refine their groundbreaking technologies.
Ediform’s dedication to improving the lives of individuals with swallowing difficulties earned them a well-deserved place at the research park. Their innovative designs and solutions address a critical healthcare challenge, and the resources available at Norwich Research Park will undoubtedly facilitate their mission to create more accessible and effective products.
Dr. Soraya Jones, the Event Chair and UEA’s Royal Society Entrepreneur-in-Residence, shared her perspective on the competition’s significance. She emphasized the University of East Anglia’s commitment to supporting students and academics in their entrepreneurial endeavors.
The university aims to enhance participants’ knowledge of entrepreneurship, foster a deeper understanding of the commercialization process, and encourage engagement with the business and investor communities. The Innovation Hothouse competition is a crucial component of this initiative, providing a platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to showcase their talents and gain access to valuable resources.
