Innovation, Entrepreneurship and excellence under one big roof
The Event
South-West Innovation Expo invites businesses from across the region to come together and explore the latest feats in technology, entrepreneurship and of course – innovation! In collaboration with the University of Exeter and the University of Plymouth, the event had a emphasis on resilience – using technology to aid environmental sustainability, digital innovation within the health and social care sector, and how business can use digital tech to enhance health and wellbeing – which is where Soundview comes in.
Our Contribution
Soundview attended the event represented by managing director Gareth Allen (and Ceri, the photo-taking intern) to deliver a talk about an app in development for use alongside smart glasses to increase access to screen entertainment, and to record a podcast on-site at the event. First up, the talk about our innovation which was followed by a panel discussion about how collaboration is key. We introduced the idea of “The Includiverse” – a place where inventors and innovators “design in” inclusion to their products – paving a way to ending systemic discrimination. Our other scheduled appointment was right in the middle of the action – on the podcast stage with other experts to talk about inclusive tech.
In-Between
While we weren’t busy presenting inventions or recording podcasts, the event provided opportunity to mingle, connect, and even try out some of the tech ourselves! Check out the picture of a robot dog below – not science fiction anymore. A plethora of incredible speakers were lined up alongside Gareth for the event, including Richard Marsh and Stuart Elford, CEO of Exeter Chamber and Devon and Plymouth Chamber, respectively.
Mingling with industry giants is always a plus, but it is equally important to acknowledge and encourage those starting out in their careers. There was an opportunity to watch a a pitch-fest, where incredibly brave entrepreneurs from the Universities of Plymouth, Exeter and Falmouth got up on stage in front of influencers and investors to pitch their ideas. A massive congratulations to all those involved.