In a bid to bolster the UK’s deep-tech sector, a new government-funded training program for early-career venture capital (VC) investors has been launched today. The initiative, a collaboration between the Royal Academy of Engineering, Imperial College London, and the Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology, aims to address the growing challenge of attracting well-informed investors to the deep-tech market.
Deep technology, which includes emerging fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, robotics, and biotechnology, often requires substantial investments and a high level of expertise to evaluate. However, there has been a noted shortage of VC investors with a clear understanding of these complex technologies, which has hindered the growth of many promising startups.
The new program, which will select 22 early-career investors, is designed to provide them with both theoretical and practical knowledge about deep-tech ventures. Participants will gain insight into evaluating cutting-edge technologies, managing risk, and fostering innovation. They will also have access to a network of experts in various deep-tech fields, helping them make informed decisions about where to invest.
According to the UK government, this program is a crucial part of a broader strategy to strengthen the country’s position in the global deep-tech market. The program’s organizers believe that increasing investment in these technologies could help accelerate growth in key industries, such as health, energy, and manufacturing, ultimately leading to job creation and economic growth.
“We are at a crucial point in the development of emerging technologies,” said Dr. Emma Wilson, head of innovation at the Royal Academy of Engineering. “To realize the potential of deep-tech, we need investors who can see the long-term vision of these startups and support them through the challenges of scaling up. This training program will equip a new generation of investors with the tools they need to do just that.”
The training program is expected to have a positive impact on both the UK’s venture capital ecosystem and its technological advancement. As the world’s economies continue to embrace deep-tech solutions, the success of this initiative could serve as a model for other countries looking to invest in the next wave of technological innovation.
