Author: Sam Allcock

Four tech scale-up companies have been announced as winners of the prestigious Unicorn Kingdom Pathfinder Awards (UKPA), the UK government’s largest global competition for emerging technology businesses. The awards, hosted by the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), celebrate innovation in sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), cyber security, connected and automated mobility, and digital trade solutions. The winners, revealed during a ceremony at LinkedIn’s headquarters in London, include: These businesses will receive a bespoke growth programme, offering support from industry experts, DBT specialists, and access to the Global Entrepreneur Programme to expand their UK operations. The winners will also…

A Romanian entrepreneur who overcame significant personal and professional challenges has launched a new social media agency in London. Claudiu Stoica, who built a successful construction business in the United States before relocating to the UK, has founded Strategy Campaign Brigade to help small businesses in the construction industry thrive. Stoica’s journey is one of perseverance and determination. Born in a small Romanian town, he moved to the United States in 2003 with limited English skills and minimal experience, hoping to create a better life. Initially working multiple jobs, he eventually established his own construction business in a highly competitive…

Swiss fintech Klarpay AG has announced its rebranding to Bivial AG, marking a significant evolution in its identity as it broadens its range of financial services. Known for its modern Swiss accounts and expertise in global corporate payments, the company’s rebranding aims to reflect its vision of providing comprehensive financial solutions while highlighting a more personal connection to its founders. The transition to Bivial AG will take place over the coming weeks. The new name, chosen to symbolise the importance of two-way transaction flows in payments and business, incorporates the initials of the company’s founders. Klarpay, a well-recognised name in…

‘Creative Crochet By Shani’ by multi business owner Shani Moore, a vibrant new crochet store and workshop hub, has officially launched in Swindon, bringing with it a unique blend of creativity and community. Since opening its doors in June 2024, the business has quickly become a haven for craft enthusiasts and those seeking a therapeutic escape from life’s pressures. With a passion for crochet and a mission to support mental well-being, Shani has created a space where people of all skill levels can learn, connect, and find solace in the calming rhythm of the craft. The response from the local…

Swiss-based fintech Klarpay AG has announced plans to rebrand as Bivial AG in the coming weeks, marking a new chapter for the company as it aims to expand its services and reinforce its position as a comprehensive financial solutions provider. The name change reflects the firm’s updated vision and values, along with a personal nod to its founders’ initials. Klarpay AG, known for its corporate-focused cross-border payment services, has grown its reputation by facilitating efficient and secure financial transactions for businesses globally. With the rebranding to Bivial AG, the company is signalling its intention to broaden its range of financial…

FPT, a global IT services firm and a Preferred NVIDIA Cloud Partner, has officially launched its FPT AI Factory in Japan, aiming to bolster the country’s artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities with a robust, full-stack computing platform powered by NVIDIA. This comprehensive facility is designed to accelerate Japan’s AI development, catering to the growing demand for high-powered, secure computing solutions as the nation strives to advance its AI and digital transformation ambitions. Announced at the NVIDIA AI Summit in Japan, the FPT AI Factory provides an end-to-end infrastructure for AI development, featuring three main services. The FPT AI Infrastructure offers cloud…

In Parallel, a tech company aiming to revolutionise strategic execution with AI, has secured €2.8 million in a seed funding round led by Finnish venture capital firm Lifeline Ventures. The funding aims to help In Parallel scale its AI-driven “Intelligent Operating Model,” designed to digitise and enhance enterprise strategies in the rapidly evolving business landscape. In Parallel’s unique platform, described as “Strategy-Execution-as-Software,” offers companies a new approach to aligning strategy and execution. The AI-powered “Parallel Twin” functions as a digital replica of an organisation’s strategy, enabling real-time monitoring and adjustments without relying on traditional, costly consulting services. The tool automates…

AIT Worldwide Logistics has expanded its footprint in the Asia-Pacific region with the opening of two new offices in Malaysia, located in Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur. This development aims to enhance services for AIT’s clients in the technology and manufacturing sectors, positioning the company closer to high-demand areas within the Southeast Asian market. Johor Bahru, recognised for its growing status as a manufacturing and technology hub, will play a key role in AIT’s regional strategy. With close proximity to Singapore and other burgeoning economic centres, the office offers a gateway to a strategic cross-border network. Greg Weigel, Chief Business…

Sports memorabilia specialist Memento Exclusives has been named Big Business of the Year 2024 by All Things Business, in recognition of its rapid growth and innovative approach to licensed sports collectibles. The prestigious honour was announced at a ceremony at Northampton’s County Ground, where Memento CEO Barry Gough was also shortlisted for Business Person of the Year. Founded in motorsport and now a global leader in sports memorabilia, Memento Exclusives has gained international recognition for its partnerships with top-tier sporting organisations. The company provides fans worldwide with unique, officially licensed memorabilia and immersive sports collectibles. Its platforms, including F1 Authentics,…

A Manchester-based litigation finance firm is positioning itself at the forefront of the battle against cryptocurrency fraud, supporting over 1,000 victims in their quest for justice. IQuote Limited, an award-winning firm, has announced funding for legal cases that seek to recover losses sustained by individuals who fell victim to crypto scams. The firm is dedicating substantial financial resources, with cases worth between £10,000 and £10 million, and is committed to aiding clients in retrieving stolen assets or lost funds. The initiative by IQuote comes amid an increasing number of high-profile cryptocurrency scams. Recently, a couple was sentenced for their role…