THE best of Cornwall’s thriving tech scene was showcased in Newquay on Thursday.

Ten groundbreaking tech startups competed in this year’s Pitch Competition at Cornwall Slush’D, which was staged at the Lighthouse Cinema.

The finalists represented various technologies, from AI-driven marketing tools with KAIAKO AI to cutting-edge 3D visualisation solutions by Amutri.

Companies like Hydro Power Pods are leading the charge in renewable energy innovation, while Lumio is helping couples reach financial freedom.

Wylder is boosting well-being via nature, while output.industries is optimising production in manufacturing.

Cherish aids positive mental health in children while NLSQL is supporting medical staff with decision-making. From social impact platforms like Time4Good to climate monitoring with Climate-i, these startups span industries that address some of the most pressing global challenges. 

The innovative companies competed for a range of prizes designed to propel their growth, including a ticket to the prestigious Slush event in Helsinki thanks to Cornwall Space Cluster, Google Cloud Credits and support, mentorship from local business support providers, including positive impact consultancy IUSEGENIUS and local solicitors Murrell Associates, one year’s membership to Tech Cornwall, access to the Canopy Community, and a golden ticket to the Growth Forge accelerator Programme by Tech South West.

Michael Wright from Penzance, who is behind output.industries, was crowned the winner by the panel of judges, which included Emma Osman from Google Cloud, Laura Elvin from IUSEGENIUS and Nic Eversett from Canopy Community. 

Micheal Wright receiving his trophy from the panel of judges and Niki Davies, the director of Tech Cornwall and event director for Cornwall Slush’D (Picture: Warren Wilkins) ( )

Michael said: “We provide a manufacturing analytics platform called Busroot. With access to real-time data, manufacturing organisations will become more efficient, productive, and sustainable.

“I was really not expecting to win. I’m honoured, as the other pitches were amazing.”

The event included keynote speakers imparting their knowledge, which included Emmie Faust, founder of Female Founders Rise. Sanford Dickert discussed computational theory to build great tech products and seasoned non-executive director Liza Tullidge gave a talk offering various business advice.

Key note speaker Liza Tullidge giving her presentation (Picture: Warren Wilkins) ( )

A Venture Village showcased 16 startups, with the opportunity to meet the founders and experience their technology firsthand.

There was an exhibition of 15 local businesses offering services to support budding entrepreneurs and business leaders, from financial support to technology and product development.

The event additionally hosted an international Demo Night featuring five Cornwall-based companies presenting their innovations to a live audience.

Niki Davies, the director of Tech Cornwall and event director for Cornwall Slush’D said: “It’s been amazing. We managed to bring together 18 tech start ups from Cornwall and the surrounding area and showcase them to investors, business support and tech networks locally.

“The whole premise of the event is to ignite the tech start up community with the help of Slush’D, which is Europe’s biggest start up event.

“We have been able to do that thanks to all our partners and sponsors.”

Adrian Poole, director, Digital Natives UKI,, Google Cloud UK & Ireland, said: “As a global AI leader, Google Cloud recognises the importance of supporting startups at every stage of their journey. 

“By providing resources, mentorship, and exposure, we aim to empower these budding entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into reality. We believe that by fostering a thriving startup ecosystem across the UK, we can contribute to the UK's overall economic growth and technological advancement.”