2014 Future of Wireless International Conference highlights 'Start-up Zone'

A previous participant in the Start-Up Zone is Cambridge based Omnisense, whose “Cluster” technology provides highly accurate real time tracking without the cost, inconvenience and disruption needed to install a fixed infrastructure. “It helps to have local relationships such as we enjoy with S-Tech, who are knowledgeable about the market,” says the company’s CEO Andy Thurman. 

Having developed the technology the company is now targeting volume niche markets that typically have challenging radio environments. “Tracking dairy cows was one potential market that immediately came to the fore, as did workers on an industrial site such as a ship’s engine room.” While start-ups do have their issues, such as access to finance or convincing target markets that your product can do a better job than the competition more cost effectively, for Andy the key is to focus on the positives.
“You need to make your own way, focus on what you are doing and maintain a belief in your product or solution,” he advises.

To meet the very specific needs of start-ups S-Tech offers Tech-Start, a product designed specifically for these companies. S-Tech’s David Lowe explains: “Just as there is nothing standard about the ideas coming from these companies, standard business insurance is simply not appropriate or comprehensive enough to cover against the unique set of risks facing innovators in the technology sector. On top of this they need insurance that is flexible enough to meet their needs as they grow and, very importantly, sensibly priced. No two start-ups are the same and we work closely with entrepreneurs and innovators to understand their technology before helping to create and evolve a comprehensive risk management strategy and insurance provision.”

“Nurturing and supporting innovation has always been at the core of Cambridge Wireless and the Innovation Hothouse is a great showcase for the next generation of wireless technologies and companies, made possible through the support of S-Tech,” said Dr Soraya Jones, CEO at CW. “Among the exhibitors at this year’s conference will be the five winners of our Discovering Start-Ups 2013 competition that all gain a free place as part of their prize. This is a great opportunity for wireless start-ups and we will shortly be announcing the 2014 competition.”

The 6th Future of Wireless International Conference takes place on 30 June and 1 July at The Moller Centre in Cambridge.