At Plexal, we’re committed to supporting 500 startups and creating over 1,000 jobs in Greater Manchester, which is being achieved through our Digital Security Hub (DiSH) initiative with Barclays Eagle Labs.
Step one was centred around place: the creation of an 11,000 square foot workspace alongside a consortium including Plexal, Barclays Eagle Labs, Lancaster University, University of Manchester and Manchester City Council.
Step two is geared towards innovation: Plexal and Barclays Eagle Labs‘ joint delivery of DiSH Accelerators, 12-week programmes that provide Greater Manchester-based digital security and cyber companies with the tools for growth.
Combined, this is a regional growth mission designed to help the Manchester cyber and tech ecosystem achieve continued scale and success.
Having successfully delivered two DiSH Accelerator programmes, we’re pleased to now reveal our third cohort, which includes:
- aFFirmFirst, a SaaS platform enabling online image control and validation.
- Appruvr, a blockchain-based platform supporting pre-employment checks for employers, institutions, and candidates.
- Bordercross Health, which empowers primary care staff to build digital organisations by helping them plan and manage their technology stacks.
- BreachLabs, a service designed to safeguard digital assets.
- Creating AI, which specialises in AI research and consultancy services.
- Cyber Aware Group aims to promote cyber security and fraud awareness to vulnerable groups, startups and under-represented communities in the UK.
- Cyber Data Law Solicitors is a law firm specialising in cyber security, data protection and AI.
- HoneypotDB is building a threat intelligence platform that leverages real-world attack data based on hacker activity.
- Lockular is a data provenance company providing solutions where data integrity and authenticity are key to the value of data and digital assets.
- Scintilla Systems has developed advanced facial pattern analysis systems to detect subtle body cues that provide critical indicators of deception and risk behaviours.
- TISOVA aims to safeguard students from online scams and fraud, elevating their overall online safety with advanced AI to provide personalised protection.
- YUDU has developed Sentinel Ping, a secure messaging app for incident response that enables teams to collaborate over crisis communications.
Commenting on his time with the programme as part of the second DiSH Accelerator, Patrick Smith, CEO at Zally, said: “As a founder, the DiSH Accelerator has been a transformative journey. Being a part of this vibrant community has enhanced my skills and broadened my perspective on entrepreneurship. The Manchester ecosystem, through DiSH, has provided a nurturing environment where innovative ideas are not just encouraged but celebrated.
Continuing with tips for our newcomers, Patrick added: “I advise the next generation of cohort members to fully embrace the opportunities DiSH offers. Engage actively, collaborate openly, and don’t hesitate to explore unconventional ideas. The power of this community lies in its diversity, so make the most of the different perspectives and experiences your fellow founders bring to the table. Remember, every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow, so approach them with tenacity and creativity.”
Ayaan Mohamed, CEO at Digitech Oasis, also provided her highlights to say: “The collaborative and supportive environment cultivated by DiSH was instrumental in shaping not only my startup but also fostering a sense of community within the wider Manchester ecosystem. To the next generation of DiSH cohorts, I’d say: ‘Embrace the challenges, leverage the network and never underestimate the power of collaboration. DiSH isn’t just an accelerator; it’s a family of innovators propelling each other toward success.’”
Are you interested in being part of the next DiSH cohort? Applications open soon and you can register your interest here: https://labs.uk.barclays/dish/dish/dish-accelerator/
Stay tuned to our social channels @PlexalCyber on Twitter, Plexal Cyber on LinkedIn and sign up to our Cyber Community newsletter for more updates on our cyber security programmes.
