In most universities, scientists and engineers are engaged in groundbreaking research that could make a real difference in the world. Future Worlds was formed in 2015 to take advantage of this and help talented people to unlock their potential and maximise their impact.
About the project
The Future Worlds project team works with researchers to help people studying and working at the university develop and launch their ideas. The team provides support and mentoring for young entrepreneurs, and connects them with industry experts, partners and investors in the Future Worlds network.
Although based in the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Future Worlds’ services are open to the wider university community, from all disciplines and at all levels, and from undergraduates to professors. Their work is showcased on the world stage, both digitally and each year at CES, an annual trade show organised by the Consumer Technology Association.
Impacts of the project
Since its launch, Future Worlds has supported more than 500 aspiring entrepreneurs, with over 50 of them going on to launch successful startups and spinouts. More than £20 million has been invested in companies that are emerging from the startup accelerator.
One such enterprise is the startup company Aquark Technologies, formed by Dr Andrei Dragomir, a physicist pioneering research into quantum physics. Dr Dragomir has been able to make the transition from researcher to entrepreneur.
“[Future Worlds] has kept me on track and given me the tools to work with,” he said. “I’ve been on the brink of quitting a lot of times, but they have been very good at shifting the focus back onto what I’m doing and why.”