Equiwatt named as one of the UK’s most exciting tech startups

Equiwatt, the ECCI-supported start-up that plans to ‘Uber-ise’ the energy market using digital technology, has been shortlisted for TechNation’s prestigious Rising Stars competition.

The Newcastle-based company, supported through the Climate-KIC Accelerator programme at ECCI, has developed an innovative platform and smart hub technology that pays households for saving energy when the grid is under stress.

Rising Stars offers early stage companies the chance to raise their profile and connect with and learn from other founders, mentors, investors and influencers. They can also win a prize package designed to supercharge their business.

Equiwatt impressed the UK-wide judging panel who shortlisted 33 of the best companies to go through to the Rising Stars semi-final in January 2019. The semi-finalists will receive pitch training from a team of experts before presenting to an expert judging panel, with 20 companies going on to the Grand Final in London in March 2019.

Launched by the then-Prime Minister David Cameron in 2011, TechNation empowers ambitious tech entrepreneurs to grow faster through growth programmes, digital entrepreneurship skills and a visa scheme for exceptional talent. It also champions the UK’s digital sector through data, stories and media campaigns.

Johnson Fernandes, Co-founder and CEO of Equiwatt, said: "We are thrilled to be named as one of top three tech startups in the North East by TechNation.

"It feels amazing to be battling for the Rising Stars Award amongst other exciting startups around the UK.

"Climate-KIC at ECCI has such a great entrepreneurial vibe and has been instrumental in supporting Equiwatt's growth over the last six months."

Have you got a business idea to help tackle climate change? Register by 13/01 to be first to hear about ECCI's 2019 Climate-KIC business support programmes.