This region has an optimistic take on the tech industry. AI and cyber security are problematic for all, but local firms are working on solutions. Yes, tech salaries are lower across East Anglia than in London or the US, and the challenges faced by startups regarding investment can stymie growth. But innovation and strategic thought are visible throughout East Anglia and the region provides a vigorous example of doing things differently.
The 2024 Tech East report, which covers Norfolk and Suffolk, states that “we are community of startups, scaleups, and late-stage tech businesses, academia, and the public sector.” And community is at the heart of the forthcoming Norfolk Developer’s conference to be held from 27 to 28 February at Norwich’s King’s centre.
Community is vital
Conference organiser, Alex Scotton, is proud that: “The conference hosts talks from both local and international speakers and ensures there are talks for both beginners and senior developers, alongside a mix of business/startup talks.” With attendees numbering around 300 on each of the two days, the conference demonstrates a thirst for knowledge and sharing and also encourages younger members of the local community to get involved through its scholarship tickets and liaison with local schools, universities and colleges.
Fascinating speeches
From a speech that will fascinate developers, ‘Defy architectural uncertainty by building Schrödinger’s app,’ by John Meeuwissen to the more tangible delivery by Emily Delva, who describes herself as “Project manager and a permanently exhausted pigeon,” looking at ‘Resilience in tech (and every other industry probably)’ the conference illustrates the creativity of software and its potential both in the present and the future.
Innovation in Cambridge
The zest for the eastern region’s dynamism is demonstrated by the Cambridge-based company, Pragmatic, that’s building an ‘integrated microchip platform,’ that doesn’t rely on silicon. The company states that: “Our revolutionary technology uses thin-film semiconductors to create flexible integrated circuits that are thinner than a human hair and are significantly cheaper and faster to produce than silicon chips. “The process is sustainable and uses far less energy than that used in the production of silicon.”
Dynamic Suffolk
Suffolk’s Adastral Park is home to both BT’s laboratories and Innovation Martlesham comprising around 150 information and technology companies (ICT).
Stowmarket-based Orbital Media has devised a multitude of AI-based solutions. These range from helping prison staff assisting prison leavers with brain injuries, and planning their lives once they return to the world outside.
A Rwanda-based project (in conjunction with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation) will predict the human and medical resources needed for the country to deliver an effective medical campaign.
Creative Norfolk
The online publication Tech Nation has described Norwich as, ‘a vibrant technology cluster’. The city boasts Akcela, which is the city’s only ‘start-up incubator’, providing mentors, community-support and invaluable advice to those who have a tech project that they want to develop into a viable business.
There are numerous tech start-ups throughout the city and county. The Callie personal safety app will trigger a safety alarm when the wearer needs help. The company also devised safety jewellery where the wearer can set off a ‘silent alarm,’ to summon aid. Callie was rated as one of Tech Nation’s rising stars.
A dev’s delight
Anyone attending the Norfolk Developer’s conference will have the opportunity to meet and engage with many vibrant and innovative minds. At ‘East Anglia’s largest tech conference’, attendees will have a rare opportunity to listen to a series of fascinating expert talks, network and share ideas.
A few tickets are still available
