Tech firms supported by mentoring and expertise

HCR’s leading technology law expert has been supporting growing companies being developed by Malvern-based tech accelerator BetaDen, which is now looking for its next group of entrepreneurs and tech companies to apply to join Cohort 4.0.

Nicola McNeely, who has worked with tech companies throughout her career, has been giving a day a month to the companies pro bono. An acknowledged expert in her field nationally, she offers legal advice on everything from their contracts and the structure of the companies, to negotiations with investors and suppliers and their market strategy.

She said: “It’s hard work, but I get the opportunity to work with really interesting tech businesses; I have spent my career with this kind of business and I really enjoy it. Their issues are very varied, and it is great to be able to help them set a course towards success.”

The current cohort of businesses are developing products and services using blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), drone mapping, 5G and thermal sensors. BetaDen is now keen to recruit more early stage technology entrepreneurs to benefit from its support – based at Malvern Hills Science Park, it offers nine months of free office space, mentorship, and access to Worcestershire’s 5G testbed. Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership also provides a £10,000 ‘proof of concept’ grant.

Linda Smith, CEO and founder of BetaDen, said: “We’re delighted to have Nicola on board; her background in IT and intellectual property is invaluable for the founders here. We have just started recruiting for our new cohort who will come on board in March next year, and I hope that HCR will continue to support us.”

The new Cohort 4.0 will benefit from BetaDen’s link up with high-performance tech company Steatite, and from enhanced access to 5G. To apply, visit BetaDen’s website here.

Harrison Clark Rickerbys has more than 500 staff and partners based at offices in Worcester, Birmingham, Cheltenham, the Wye Valley, Hereford, London, Thames Valley, Cambridge and Cardiff, who provide a complete spectrum of legal services to both business and private clients, regionally and nationwide. The firm also has a number of highly successful teams specialising in individual market sectors, including health and social care, education, technology, agricultural and rural affairs, finance and financial services, defence, security and the forces, and construction.