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:
- Massive Bio (AI), an AI-driven platform connecting cancer patients to tailored clinical trials.
- CyLock (Cyber Security), which tests IT systems’ resilience to cyber-attacks and provides actionable solutions.
- Grubtech (Digital Trade Solutions), empowering restaurants and grocery chains with omnichannel capabilities.
- Bottobo (Connected and Automated Mobility), specialising in robotics to improve industrial efficiency.
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 participate in a roundtable discussion at Downing Street to explore how the UK can continue fostering innovation.
Minister for Small Businesses Gareth Thomas praised the country’s thriving technology ecosystem, stating, “The UK’s tech sector is valued at over $1 trillion, making it one of only three economies globally to achieve this milestone. Our Pathfinder Awards highlight why the UK remains a prime destination for tech businesses.”
The competition drew finalists from across the globe, representing key areas of technological advancement:
- AI: Massive Bio, Pix Force, Westwell, Tessact.
- Cyber Security: CyLock, Cyberdes.
- Connected and Automated Mobility: Bottobo, MooVita.
- Digital Trade Solutions: Grubtech, Gallarus Industry Solutions.
Massive Bio’s AI platform, which streamlines clinical trial connections for cancer patients, earned top honours in the AI category. Co-founder Cagatay Culcuoglu said, “Winning the UKPA award highlights the UK’s potential as a global hub for healthcare technology. We look forward to expanding our operations with DBT’s support.”
CyLock’s Chief Executive Diego Padovan emphasised the trust their platform builds with customers by improving cybersecurity readiness. Similarly, Grubtech’s CTO, Mohamed Hamedi, noted the UK’s strategic importance in accelerating their global growth. Bottobo co-founder Sancak Gülgen applauded the UK government’s clear vision for supporting future-focused startups.
The awards also built on the success of 2023’s Tech Rocketship Awards, which facilitated £67.4 million in UK investments. The government remains committed to attracting international businesses to the UK, further strengthening the country’s reputation as a hub for technological innovation and investment.