Owen Thompson, CEO and Founder of Cambridge Future Tech (CFT), returns to the podcast for a fast-paced, candid conversation on how CFT has evolved from a scrappy venture builder to one of the UK’s most active deep tech venture studios.

💡Highlights

CFT is now creating 8–10 companies a year, having just incorporated its 17th and on track to hit 20 by year-end. The team takes a hands-on approach to IP scouting, spinning out from both universities and corporate R&D labs.

From the future of compute and quantum technologies to cooling systems and energy optimisation, CFT’s portfolio covers some of the most advanced sectors shaping UK innovation. With partnerships spanning 25+ universities - from Glasgow to Southampton - the studio’s reach is truly national.

CFT builds “mini ecosystems” around each startup, often bringing in experienced industry leaders as CEOs. As Owen puts it, “We’ve learned we’re not just a tech company - we’re a people company.”

The studio is expanding into investment with a new sister fund, Future Tech VC, launching soon marking a shift from simply building ventures to backing them through later stages.

🚀 Looking Ahead

CFT is tackling the ongoing challenge of fundraising in 2025 head-on, engaging family offices and developing tailored capital strategies. With initiatives like the Mansion House Act and British Business Bank signalling progress, the team sees major opportunities ahead—especially in dual-use defence tech, the next quantum wave, and sustainability innovation.

Tune in for an honest look at what it takes to build deep tech companies in today’s UK landscape - and why, as Owen says, “It’s all about the quality of relationships you’re building.”

Produced by Cambridge TV

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week James chats with Marco De Novellis, Group Editor at Founders Forum Group and Tech Nation, about the current state and future of AI in the UK.

Here are some key takeaways:

• The UK AI sector has reached a combined valuation of $230 billion, surpassing France and Germany combined. Marco notes, “AI is increasingly becoming a national security question,” highlighting its importance beyond just business.

• The demand for AI talent is skyrocketing, with companies offering lucrative packages to attract top researchers. Marco points out, “AI researchers are in massive demand,” and the competition is fierce, with salaries reaching up to £1 million.

• AI startups accounted for 27% of all UK venture capital funding in 2024. Marco emphasises, “Every company is becoming an AI company,” indicating that AI is no longer a niche but a necessity across sectors.

• To maintain its leadership in AI, the UK must create conditions that encourage startups to scale and remain based in the country. Marco states, “We need to stop the exodus of talent at growth stages going to the US.”

The conversation not only highlights the challenges and opportunities within the sector but also underscores the importance of collaboration and support for startups.

Produced by Cambridge TV

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode we discover more about the innovative work being done at Forefront RF. Dr. Leo Laughlin and Dr. Alexander Doust share their journey in developing cutting-edge technology for mobile devices. Here are some key takeaways:

• The Challenge of Signal Management: Leo explains, “Mobile phones need to transmit a powerful signal while simultaneously receiving a weak one. Our technology addresses this by using advanced signal cancellation methods.” This innovation allows for a more efficient and compact design in mobile devices.

• Tunable Filters: Their solution replaces multiple fixed-frequency filters with a single tunable component, significantly reducing complexity and size. “This opens up new use cases for devices that require cellular connectivity,” Alexander adds.

• Sustainability Focus: The technology not only simplifies device design but also contributes to sustainability by reducing the number of components needed. “We’re helping manufacturers create a single global variant of their products, which is a game changer,” Leo remarks.

• Navigating the Semiconductor Landscape: The duo discusses the challenges of scaling in the semiconductor industry, highlighting the importance of having a credible team and a clear strategy for market entry. “It’s about executing our plans and getting our product in front of customers,” Alexander states.

As Forefront RF gears up for its first product launch, the excitement is palpable. The team is focused on securing partnerships with manufacturers and getting their technology integrated into next-generation devices.

Produced by Cambridge TV

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.