ORDNANCE Survey, Registers of Scotland and HM Land Registry might not be the first things that spring to mind when you think of cutting-edge technology start-up companies.
However, its innovation wing Geovation has been running for five years, now boasts more than 800 members and has helped propel 125 innovative young companies introduce their digital products and services to their respective markets.
On the way they, in turn, have created more than 550 new jobs and raised over £86 million in third-party funding.
Now, Carly Morris, the former head of innovation at International Airlines Group (IAG), has been appointed Geovation’s new chief.
During her time with IAG she led emerging technology trials within the group’s logistics business, as well as their Hangar 51 accelerator programme.
Prior to IAG she specialised in trade and working capital in financial services.
“We are delighted Carly is joining us to lead the Geovation team,” said Paul Cruddace, head of research and innovation at Ordnance Survey. “Since its inception, Geovation has firmly established itself within the British start-up and entrepreneurial community and supported the UK economy.
“I am looking forward to working with Carly, as we build on this and help Geovation break new territory.”
Start-ups face many challenges to succeed, and with the Covid crisis, this might not be the best time to start your own company – but it is still happening.
Morris has received industry recognition for her work and was a finalist in the 2020 Everywoman Transport and Logistics awards, and this year’s TechWomen100 Awards.
She said: “The UK is a global innovation powerhouse, and we are there to help the entrepreneurs of the future thrive.
“Geovation provides start-ups with access to one of the world’s richest and most accurate location and property data banks.
“The opportunities are endless. Everything happens somewhere, and if an entrepreneur’s idea involves the use of location property information, we are going to ensure Geovation is the best place to help that idea flourish.
“We will evolve Geovation, so it can help find, grow and launch some of the best start-ups you haven’t heard of yet.”
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