No time to read this? Listen to Julie:
This week I was invited to be one of a group of mentors at the IBM SmartCamp - a global programme bringing together entrepreneurs, investors and experienced mentors. The event was held at the Imperial College Business School in London and, as mentors, we spent time with the finalists prior to the afternoon's judging and awarding of prizes.
The winning company Worldsensing has, amongst other equally impressive technological advances, developed some very small sensors, connected to equally small radios, that can be connected to the Internet. One of the ways in which they are using this technology is 'smart parking': giving real time information of parking space availability so that drivers can quickly and easily find an available space. We heard that the scheme is being piloted in Barcelona and there is lots of interest. It's a great idea and they were worthy winners of the first prize. I have no doubt that their business is headed for a great future.
The other finalists were equally impressive and I came away from the event feeling reassured that innovative and socially responsible entrepreneurs are picking up the business baton and have a vision to create a smarter future for our world.
Not only that, but I got to meet the brilliant Doug Richard.
A great event. I was pleased to be part of it.
