We joined innovators from the region at Venturefest South on 21 October to exhibit and show our support for the growing and inspiring innovation ecosystem in the South.

This year we showcased some of the amazing innovations from Dstl and the Ministry of Defence that we have helped take to market. From super a water-repellent coating to a chance discovery that now helps to fight crime by recovering fingerprints from ‘impossible’ surfaces, we enjoyed highlighting these examples of how we work across government to bring together people to deliver new capabilities into the hands of users.

In addition, our CEO, Hetti Barkworth-Hanton, was privileged to be invited onto the judging panel for the Festival of Innovation Awards. Three start-ups were chosen so be awarded Innovator of the Year, Early Stage Innovator Award, and Sustainable Innovation Leader. Speaking about her experience, Hetti said:

Being a judge is a fantastic opportunity to see a diverse group of brilliant innovators and their ideas for improving all our lives. I want to thank all the innovators at Venturefest South who took part, and a huge congratulations to the winners.

Dr Mark Gostock, our commercialisation manager that leads our life sciences portfolio, said: “Venturefest South allows us to support and drive innovations in the South. It was exciting and refreshing to meet with local entrepreneurs and seeing their latest ideas”.

The Ploughshare stand was busier than ever, with visitors eager to understand the work we do with Dstl and to learn more about the incredible innovations we have available.

About Venturefest South

Venturefest South is a not for profit initiative made up of people, organisations and businesses which recognise the innate value of engaging with, and investing in the south’s innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem.

This one-day event gives inventors the ability to speak to businesses and organisations they may otherwise not have the opportunity to approach. It also allows companies and organisations to discover the new and upcoming ideas that could be the perfect investment opportunity.

Stay in touch

We are excited about upcoming events happening again ‘in real life’ and look forward to returning to Venturefest South in 2022.

To keep updated on the events we attend and how you can get involved with Ploughshare and discover the impact we make on society, follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.

Image gallery

Images courtesy of Carswell Gould / Venturefest South.