Novalia displays high growth on global stage with Innovate UK support
Novalia, an award-winning innovative tech company based in Cambridge, has been at the forefront of developing multitouch technology that transforms ordinary surfaces into interactive displays. This revolutionary technology, designed to connect brands with audiences through unique interactive experiences, has made significant strides with Innovate UK support.
Novalia’s journey with Innovate UK began with a Global Cooperation Feasibility Studies grant, before it started working with Innovate UK Business Growth in 2021 (all Innovate UK competition winners are offered support from the service). Recognising the potential of its technology, Innovation and Growth Specialist Richard Carey-Evans created a bespoke action plan to accelerate Novalia’s growth.
This partnership has been pivotal in transforming Novalia’s innovative technology platform into marketable products with global reach, according to Chris Jones, Chief Operating Officer at Novalia.
“Our collaboration with Innovate UK Business Growth has been invaluable. The support we received, particularly around access to funding and finance, has been instrumental in positioning Novalia to develop from a technology platform into a marketable product with global applications.”
Novalia’s technology integrates traditional print with electronics & software to create interactive digital experiences; printing conductive inks to create sensors that make surfaces touch-sensitive.
Novalia’s experiential technology transforms everyday items like posters, packaging and magazines into interactive surfaces delivering digital experiences in unexpected places. It can be used to develop educational tools, create interactive merchandise for entertainment and produce digital-enhanced printed media for publishers and media companies for unique user experiences.
Novalia’s multitouch technology product is a highly sophisticated Human Machine Interface (HMI) that targets a wide range of sectors, including consumer goods, transport & automotive, smart home and entertainment.
The company’s innovations are boosting the UK economy by creating skilled tech jobs and enhancing productivity across sectors such as retail and education. This growth benefits local economies and stimulates related industries.
Furthermore, Novalia’s success highlights the strength of the UK’s innovative capability, reinforcing the country’s global reputation as a leader in technology and contributing to broader economic and societal progress.
Strategic support and IP management
One of the critical elements of Innovate UK Business Growth’s support was enhancing Novalia’s investment readiness. This included participating in the Invest-Ability Intensive Training programme, which equipped Novalia with the skills and knowledge to secure substantial investments.
Consequently, Novalia raised £1 million in investment and secured a £1.2 million Innovate UK Innovation Loan, significantly boosting its product development capacity.
Additionally, Novalia benefited from an IP Audit, leading to a robust IP strategy. This audit facilitated the filing of four new patents, helped secure the technology’s market position and paved the way for future innovations.
“The IP Audit and subsequent strategy have been critical in protecting our technology and enhancing our competitive edge in the market,” adds Jones.
Internationalisation and market penetration
Innovate UK Business Growth’s support extended beyond funding and IP management. Recognising Novalia’s potential in international markets, particularly the USA, it facilitated introductions to the Department for International Trade (DIT).
This collaboration enabled Novalia to exhibit its technology at prestigious events, like the CES Conference in Las Vegas and the SXSW Conference in Austin, Texas, showcasing its innovative products to a global audience.
Moreover, the £21,000 Global Explorers grant, awarded to Novalia, has deepened its understanding of the US market and created significant commercial opportunities. “The support from Innovate UK Business Growth and the introductions to key markets have immeasurably accelerated our impact and expanded our global reach,” says Jones.
Impact on jobs and future growth
The partnership with Innovate UK Business Growth has not only catalysed Novalia’s technological advancements but also positively impacted its employment growth. Over the past two years, Novalia has created two engineering roles, with plans to add further technical and engineering positions and commercial roles over the coming 24 months.
With Innovate UK Business Growth’s continuous support, Novalia is poised to introduce new multitouch products to the US and global markets. Its ongoing collaboration with the DIT in the USA, coupled with a well-protected IP portfolio and significant financial backing, sets the stage for Novalia’s continued growth and expansion.
The support we received [from Innovate UK Business Growth], particularly around access to funding and finance, has been instrumental in positioning Novalia to develop from a technology platform into a marketable product with global applications.
– Chris Jones, COO at Novalia