Britain's Got Start-Ups - Bath

Emily Wells | Head of Abstract Talent

April, 2024

Blog Topics

Transform Tech

Cultivating Innovation with Abstract Group's Expertise

The entrepreneurial spirit burns bright across the UK, with ambitious start-ups and scale-ups brimming with potential. However, fostering that potential requires not only a brilliant idea but also a strategic approach to growth. Last week, Abstract Group had the pleasure of participating in the latest Britain's Got Start-ups (BGSU) event in Bath. This dynamic initiative shines a spotlight on innovative businesses outside of London, connecting them with crucial funding and fostering a more balanced ecosystem for UK start-ups.

Our team, comprised of Emily Wells, Principal Research Consultant, and Liam, Head of Cloud Services and Governance Lead, actively participated in BGSU, offering valuable insights through insightful workshops.

Building the Dream Team

Insights from Emily Wells
Emily, a seasoned professional with a deep understanding of talent acquisition and its impact on business growth, firmly believes BGSU serves a critical purpose. "This event series plays a vital role in leveling the playing field for startups across the UK," she asserts. "By bringing investors and promising businesses together outside the usual London hub, BGSU facilitates access to funding and opportunities for a wider range of innovators."

Emily's workshop focused on a fundamental pillar of startup success: talent. She delved into the specific challenges associated with rapid scaling, particularly in the crucial arena of building a strong leadership team. "Hiring decisions have an amplified effect within a startup environment," Emily explains. "Every new team member shapes the company culture and capabilities. Choosing the right individuals sets the foundation for future growth, while missteps can create roadblocks." Her workshop offered practical guidance on navigating the talent acquisition process. She emphasized the importance of a well-defined talent strategy that aligns with the startup's overall vision and growth roadmap. "Attracting the best talent requires not just competitive compensation but also a compelling company culture and a clear path for career development," Emily advises.

Future-Proofing Technology

Liam's Roadmap to Success
Liam Sanders Liam, who oversees cloud services and spearheads transformation projects at Abstract Group, echoed Emily's enthusiasm for BGSU's mission. His workshop addressed a different but equally critical aspect of startup success: laying a robust technological foundation.

"Startups are often laser-focused on developing their core product or service," Liam observes. "However, neglecting to build a secure and scalable technology infrastructure can hamper growth down the line."

Liam's workshop championed the concept of a future-proofed technology roadmap. He advocated for the adoption of industry-standard security frameworks such as Cyber Essentials and ISO27001. These frameworks provide a structured approach to data security, access control, and incident response, making startups more attractive to investors and potential partners.
Moreover, Liam explored the value of strategic technology partnerships. Partnering with established players in cloud services, security, and other relevant areas can streamline operations and free up valuable resources for startups to focus on core innovation.

A Glimpse into Britain's Got Startups

BGSU isn't just about workshops. It's a vibrant platform for networking and learning from fellow entrepreneurs. Here are some additional insights gleaned from the event:

Diversity of Innovation: The participating startups represented a fascinating spectrum of industries, from cutting-edge fintech solutions to sustainable energy ventures. This diversity highlights the breadth and depth of entrepreneurial talent across the UK.

Investor Interest: The event attracted a significant number of investors, both local and international. This underscores the growing appetite for investment in regional startups, a trend further amplified by BGSU's efforts.

Collaborative Atmosphere: The event fostered a strong sense of community, with entrepreneurs and industry leaders exchanging ideas and building connections. This collaborative spirit is crucial for nurturing a thriving startup ecosystem.

Emily Wells and Liam Sanders presenting a workshop

Emily Wells, Liam Sanders and Tom Snowden having a discussion at BGS Bath

A founder pitching his investment at BGS Bath

A founder watching someone else's pitch at BGS Bath

Emily Wells and Liam Sanders stood with a founder in front of an Abstract and Vestd banner

Abstract Group: Your Strategic Partner for Growth

At Abstract Group, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities faced by startups. Our comprehensive suite of services is designed to empower you on your journey towards success.

Building on Emily's expertise in talent acquisition and leadership team development, we can help you assemble the dream team – a diverse and talented group with the skills and vision to propel your startup forward.

Liam's cloud services and security knowledge translates into practical solutions for building a future-proof technology foundation. From cloud migration strategies to robust security protocols, we can ensure your infrastructure scales seamlessly alongside your business.

Beyond Talent and Technology: A Holistic Approach

Abstract Group's commitment to your growth extends beyond talent and technology. We offer a range of services tailored to meet the specific needs of startups, including:

Market Research and Insights: Gain valuable customer and industry insights to inform your product development and marketing strategies.
Operational Efficiency: Streamline your internal processes and optimize resource allocation for maximum impact.