NetBop Technologies

University reaches out to business

Tuesday, 8th January 2008

A Swansea IT entrepreneur is backing an exciting new programme launched by the city’s University to help businesses across Wales.

The Swansea University Business Forum or ‘Uni-Bus’ will see experts from departments including Computer Science, Telecommunications and Engineering offering their expertise to help companies test products or solve problems.

Andrew Downie, a Swansea University Graduate, who set up the award winning NetBop Technologies five years ago, is sponsoring the scheme. Andrew was offered helped to set up his company via the Spin Out programme through the University, which provided some initial funding as well as advice and mentoring.

As well as a web developer, Andrew has created his own products including Bopspam, which blocks junk e-mails and BopControl, a simple way for businesses to update their websites. NetBop Technologies will be offering its web developing and marketing expertise to the Uni-Bus programme.

Uni-Bus - University reaches out to businessAndrew added, “It’s a great idea. The university helped me and I believe that it has a lot to offer business. It can test products or even come up with solutions for companies. There is a wealth of facilities on the campus as well as the expertise in the departments and it is a very useful business resource.”

The University is launching the programme at an open evening on January 10th. Businesses across Wales are invited to go along to talk to the experts and learn more about the scheme.

Tim McCaffrey, Programme Manager of the Department of Research & Innovation at Swansea University, has helped set up the Uni-Bus programme, he said, “Every business has problems. Some could be fixed with some simple brain or equipment assistance. Swansea University wants to meet and help business overcome some of these through its knowledge and facilities.”

He added, “We believe this is a major step forward for both business and the university so we are planning seminars, information transfer through all media including web seminars, audio and video downloads, newsletters and local meetings where there will be an opportunity to discuss business ideas that work and problems that companies want to overcome.”

The open evening will be held at the University’s Computational Conference Centre on Thursday January 10th from 6pm. To book a place ring 01792 513707 or email ask@uni-bus.co.uk

For further details please contact NetBop on 01792 588 277 or visit
www.uni-bus.co.uk

‹ Back to News & Press