London Tech City East Initiative
London's 'Tech City East' initiative was launched by the UK Government to build on the existing cluster of technology companies in east London, also known as the Silicon Roundabout, to create a world-leading technology centre. The area is home to one of the largest concentrations of small, fast- growing digital technology companies in Europe including:
- Last.fm (sold to CBS in 2007 for $280million)
- Tweetdeck (award-winning social media browser)
- Songkick (the largest global database of concerts in the world)
- Dopplr (sold to Nokia for $22million)
With commitment from UK Government and active support from major global technology companies including Cisco, Intel and Google, east London is experiencing increased impetus and momentum. From budding entrepreneurs in technology incubators around Old Street and Shoreditch to major facilities in the Olympics Park available post-2012, Tech City East clearly holds opportunities for companies of all sizes. Benefits of locating at Tech City East:
- Access to Europe’s largest VC community
- First priority area for super fast broadband and Wifi connection.
- Access to like minded technology innovators and clusters of technology companies.
- Established and growing community of networking groups including TechHub, Developer’s Garage, The Tea Building, Hoxton Mixer and TechMeetUp.
- Prime location, at the convergence of London’s investment community and the advertising, music and broadcast media clusters. Two thirds of international advertising agencies have their European HQ in London.
- Close proximity to 4 of the world’s leading technology universities - Cambridge, UCL, Oxford and Imperial.
- Multi-cultural environment creating a buzz to generate new ideas and innovation and attract the best talent.
- London has the highest concentration of creative firms in any city or region in the world.
- Vibrant bar and social scene including The Boundary and Shoreditch House.
- Key transport hub – Brussels is less than 2hrs and Paris is 2hrs 15mins by Eurostar high speed train. Also, access to Europe’s largest air hub, London Heathrow and close to London’s City Airport.
- Competitive property costs.