An AI startup moving its research hub to Leicester is a testament to the city’s “innovation and entrepreneurship”, according to the company.
Cyferd is a platform that enables other businesses to streamline their operations by building apps within seconds. It was set up in 2019 and according to Crunchbase has more than 30 employees and received almost £2m in funding.
The startup has opened a new head office and AI research hub in the Grade-II listed former Fielding Johnson Hospital building in Regent Road, close to the city centre and the city’s two universities.
A spokesman said:
“The decision to set up in Leicester reflects the company’s commitment to the UK tech sector and its passion for helping underrepresented groups advance their journeys to successful careers in technology.
“By establishing its head office in Leicester, Cyferd is committed to providing employment opportunities for local people and contributing to the city’s growing technology sector.
Founder and chief executive Ranjit Bahia said:
“We are thrilled to be establishing the new tech hub of the UK, here in Leicester.
“Our vision is to bring together the brightest and best minds from all corners of the country in our new AI R&D facility.
“We aim to inspire the youth of Leicester and the UK, and show them that they could have a bright future ahead in the world of tech at our Leicester hub.”
Leicester City Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby said:
“I’m very pleased that Cyferd has chosen to make its head office in Leicester, thereby joining what is the largest cluster of creative and digital businesses outside London.
“With two local universities at the forefront of design and technology on their doorstep, they certainly have a wealth of local talent to recruit from, and I welcome their commitment to developing local educational and job opportunities in this exciting sector.”