‘Airbnb-style’ workspace platform opens six-figure funding round ahead of London launch

A marketplace platform aiming to make use of underused workspace has launched a six-figure seed funding round ahead of its London launch.

Occupyd, which aims to provide an Airbnb style service to SMEs looking for workspace, has launched the round in the hopes of reaching its £600k goal over the next two months.

Founded in 2018 by Callum McPherson, Occupyd seeks to match unused spaces across a range of sectors, with small businesses looking for affordable and flexible working spaces.

Callum explained: “We facilitate connections between businesses that need space to work and businesses that have more space than they need, so that both can thrive and grow.

“This new round of funding will enable us to develop the platform further and increase collaboration between businesses.

The firm plans to officially launch in London this month, with its first international base planned to open in New York in early 2020.

Part of the Royal Bank of Scotland Entrepreneur Accelerator programme, Callum has previously secured £50k worth of investment to build the online platform with support from the bank.

Callum commented: “Being part of Royal Bank of Scotland’s Accelerator programme has helped drive forward this latest round of funding.

“Being around like-minded entrepreneurs and having access to support and advice from the bank’s mentors and finance experts has helped me to focus growth plans.”

Stuart Dearden, entrepreneur development manager at Royal Bank of Scotland, added: “Callum is a shining example of the businesses who come through our accelerator programme, and his ambitions for Occupyd over the next 12 months will help other start-ups and SME businesses on their journey to growth.”