Venturefest 2008 announces Keynotes

Oxford, 06 March 2008

Venturefest has announced its two Keynote speakers for 2008.

The ever-popular enterprise forum takes place this year on 30 June & 1 July at Oxford’s Unipart Group of Companies and will host opening and closing keynotes by Lord Sainsbury and Dr Mike Grocott, the leader of the “Caudwell Xtreme Everest” team of doctors and scientists that climbed Everest in 2007.

Celebrating its 10th year in 2008, Venturefest is a free enterprise Fair developed to promote and support enterprise and innovation. As one of the UK’s original enterprise and networking events mimicked around the country, Venturefest is viewed by its attendees as an essential resource for start-up, developing, and fast growth businesses. Each year, some 1500 people attend Venturefest’s free conference sessions, seeking professional advice and support, access to sources of potential funding and to learn about new technologies with commercial potential.

Special conference coverage for 2008 includes new ideas in medical and bioscience technologies, alongside the ever-popular how-to seminars, investment pitches and Venturefest Village: a networking hub and home to changing exhibits and showcases throughout the two days.

Reflecting on the event’s 10-year history, Venturefest’s original founder, Peter Johnson commented,

“The multiplicity of ideas, businesses and people is key to the vitality and constant renewal of Venturefest. Presenting things differently always provokes new thoughts and possibilities, and the serendipity of start-ups is a remarkable feature well fostered by the Fair. I believe that this multiplicity is critical to innovation.”

Echoing this sentiment Venturefest’s current Chair, Dave Waller of Oxfordshire County Council, supported Johnson’s views,

“Diversity and energy are both essential to innovation success. Venturefest has been extremely privileged to provide a platform for some major enterprise and innovation launches during its short history, introducing some significant technological innovations to funding sources and enabling young companies to grow rapidly into successful businesses.

“We’re delighted that Lord Sainsbury and Mike Grocott will join us at Venturefest this year and we feel sure that their Addresses will provide our audience with inspiration through example.”

ends

Editor’s Notes:

Venturefest 2008 takes place on 30 June & 1 July at Unipart Group of Companies, Oxford

Venturefest, launched in 1999, is a free two-day conference, open to all, supporting enterprise and innovation and promoting the commercialisation of new technology.
Venturefest is a not-for-profit event and is funded by sponsorships from organisations and institutions dedicated to the promotion of enterprise.
Venturefest is steered by a Board of organisations and individuals who develop and contribute to the regional economy in a variety of ways. They include representatives from Oxford’s universities, Oxford’s city and county councils and commercial organisations that provide essential services to start-up and growing businesses.
The event is held annually in Oxfordshire, showcasing some of the region’s most innovative educational, R&D and commercial establishments. Past hosts have included University of Oxford campuses, the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory and the UKAEA at Culham.

Further information from the organisers:
Rubicon Communications Ltd
E: info@venturefest.com
T: +44 (0)1865 327813