MediaCityUK tech firm Formisimo wins £30k funding package

Greater Manchester-based tech firm Formisimo has secured five-figure funding following a competition against eight other North West enterprises at Venturefest.

After battling it out in the business event’s Innovation Showcase Competition, the MediaCityUK-headquartered company won a £30k funding package. Formisimo has confirmed it plans to use the cash to expand its product offering.

The firm, founded by digital entrepreneurs Al Mackin and Tom New, aims to use technology to personalise and improve customers’ online shopping experiences. Its clients include automaker Lexus, Arsenal FC and travel company Secret Escapes.

Lee Frater is the manager of Business Growth Hub, which organises the event.

She said: “The main objective of Venturefest was to make businesses aware of the support that is available to them, whether they are just starting up or already established and looking to take their business to the next level.

“One of the key things that will transform the way that businesses operate is technology. It helps save time, increases flexibility and, most importantly, encourages companies to become more innovative and therefore productive.”

Last year’s event was won by Abdul Alim, the man behind the Manchester Science Park-based technology business OfferMoments.

He commented: “Winning at Venturefest changed everything. The Business Growth Hub’s extensive networks and connections put us in touch with a number of other businesses and we are now at a point where we have built one of the most powerful billboard solutions for retailers looking to increase their customer base.”