20 startups set to enter London

The programme is an initiative aimed at high growth, knowledge-based companies formed after 2000. Of 345 Indian companies that entered the programme this year, 50 startups were shortlisted, and top 20 were selected at an event held here.

The IE20 programme launched by the Mayor of London Sadiq Khan’s business and promotional agency, London & Partners, supported by Santander UK, BDO and Newland Chase, has uncovered some of India’s most promising companies looking to expand on the international stage.

These 20 startups — from travel tech to dairy tech, and from stem cell technology to science for children, will be able to expand, scale up and start business in London. 

These companies have been invited to London, during the London Tech Week which will start on June 12, to help facilitate international partnerships, alliances, business opportunities and discover how to take advantage of London’s unique position as a global business centre.

Last year too, 20 startups were selected as part of this programme. From last year’s cohort, two companies have already set up offices in London — LatentView Analytics and Curadev Pharma.

David Slater, London & Partners’ Director of International Trade and Investment, said, “India is one of the highest sources of foreign direct investment to London. This programme helps both startups from India and companies from London to establish mutual trade relationships.”

“The diversity of businesses on the latest IE20 mission shows the vast international potential of Indian business and London offers the greatest place in the world for companies to scale and grow,” Slater added.DH News Service

The UK exported goods worth €6.35 billion to India and services valued at €2.24 billion, and is the third largest investor in India. Data released recently by London & Partners shows that Indian companies are the third biggest investors in London, behind the US and China.

Speaking on the occasion, Arbinder Chatwal, BDO’s Head of India Advisory Services in the UK said the recent Asia Business Association (ABA) report headlines that 11% of London’s GDP is contributed by Asian businesses, of which India stands as the highest contributor. Some of the winners this year include GOQii, Smartivity Labs, Stellapps Technologies, Thrillophilia, and Transcell.

Founders of startups said they are delighted to be a part of the programme, which will open the doors to set up business in London, and in other markets from there.