James Bedford

Digital Tech Cluster Manager – STFC (Science and Technology Facilities Council)

James is creating a new digital tech cluster at Sci-Tech Daresbury (between Liverpool and Manchester) for the Science and Technology Facilities Council, part of UK Research and Innovation. Launched in November 2021, the cluster will create an environment for digital tech companies to grow rapidly within a supportive community. Focussing on helping digital tech start-ups and scale-ups find new markets for their products, attract talent and raise investment, the cluster will grow to over 400 companies and create 1000 jobs in the next 10 years.

James was previously Director of OXO Consultancy, an advisory firm specialising in rapid-growth tech companies. Prior to this, James was Head of Investment Partnerships at Tech Nation and Head of Investment Strategy at Tech North. He has previously led on the creation of co-investment funds and was responsible for the Digital Powerhouse report which highlighted assets and opportunities in the North for tech companies.

Panel: 12:25 PM – 1:10 PM

Backing Innovators Solving the Unsolvable

Disruptive innovations in science and engineering have the power to change the world but require collaboration to make it a success. This panel of industry experts will discuss the unique nature of deep tech innovations, including longer R&D cycles and tackling the unsolvable. Dialling in on everything from deep tech clusters to university spin outs, this panel will pull back the curtain on the UK’s growing deep tech ecosystem.