Call for more support for London’s IoT start-ups

With London Technology Week taking place this week, Jim Bowes, CEO and co-founder of digital consultancy Manifesto, suggests ways London can encourage future growth in its internet of things (IoT) technology sector.

The capital has been successful at attracting digital technology and software start-ups, but Bowes says more can be done to support research in SMEs.

He also believes recruitment could be affected by a lack of affordable houses.

“The primary focus is often on how to help the business itself, but with London becoming increasingly expensive as a place to live, and young people being priced out of the housing market, more needs to be done to help those working for SMEs and innovative businesses,” said Bowes.

“Addressing the housing crisis and creating affordable housing is a difficult task but a crucial one if London wants to remain the forefront of the digital world,” said Bowes.

More can be done by government to encourage businesses that want to take risks with research, create new products and develop new services.

Bowes believes that many London-based SMEs are unaware they are eligible for the Government’s research and development tax credit scheme.

“This could be addressed through the implementation of future partnership programmes, providing coaching for new entrepreneurs, or offering more tangible financial support. This should also include advice on taking advantage of existing national schemes,” said Bowes.

London Technology Week is holding a series of IoT related technology business events in the capital this week (20-26 June).