Opportunity to exhibit for free at Venturefest 2008

Oxford, 28 February 2008

Small and early-stage science and technology companies will yet again have the opportunity to exhibit at Venturefest for free this year. The Technology Showcase Exhibition, taking place on Tuesday 1 July, will provide a forum for early-stage companies and individual entrepreneurs to show off their products and to meet potential funders.

The Oxford Trust, coordinator of the Technology Showcase, is inviting science and technology companies to seize the opportunity to exhibit themselves at Oxfordshire’s annual fair for entrepreneurs. Amanda Nolte, Head of Innovation at The Oxford Trust, commented ‘We are seeking companies from across the high technology spectrum to exhibit in order to represent the diversity of enterprise and innovation embedded within Oxfordshire’. Richard Mercer, Business Support Manager at the Trust, explains ‘we want to encourage SMEs to come to Venturefest and use this forum to exhibit their products. It will also enable them to meet potential funders and other support services to help them grow.’

Exhibiting companies will also be eligible for cash prizes given for best use of the exhibition space available. The winners will be selected from the votes of exhibition attendees combined with the decisions of a panel of judges made up of professionals and business support organisations.

Venturefest will take place at Unipart Group of Companies, Garsington Road, Cowley, Oxford on 30 June and 1 July 2008. The Technology Showcase Exhibition is coordinated by The Oxford Trust, a charitable organisation that works to support the growth and development of Oxfordshire’s science and technology business community. To register an interest in taking part in the Technology Showcase Exhibition, contact Richard Mercer at The Oxford Trust by e-mail: Richard.mercer[at]oxtrust.org.uk or tel: 01865 728953.

Press Contact: Anne Lechelle on 01865 728953 or e-mail anne.lechelle[at]oxtrust.org.uk

Notes to Editors

The Oxford Trust is a charitable organisation promoting the study, application and communication of science, technology and engineering. The Oxford Trust operates Science Oxford, a cultural centre for science in Oxfordshire. Science Oxford houses an exhibition area, an information centre, a series of public events and a Hands On Science Gallery for Children.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2008, Venturefest attracts an audience of entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, scientists and their professional advisers. Highlighting Oxford's commitment to new business innovation and providing much-needed free support and guidance to organisations and individuals seeking to start or grow their business, the event is especially suited to high technology and knowledge-based sectors.