An AI startup from Leicester has been named one of the brightest tech firms in the UK by Tech Nation.

Inicio is a platform that uses natural language to help someone who falls into debt.

The company was shortlisted as one of 33 regional winners in Tech Nation’s ‘Rising Stars’ competition.

Selected by expert judges from across the UK tech ecosystem, the regional winners will benefit from significant profile raising, masterclasses and networking opportunities to put their business in front of leading investors, influencers and corporates.

Matt Exley, Rising Stars Lead at Tech Nation, said:

“Over the past five years Tech Nation Rising Stars has searched for, supported and celebrated the UK’s best early-stage tech companies. Our expert judges from across the tech economy have selected the 33 from nearly 400 applicants and assessed them on their potential to scale. These companies now receive support on preparing for corporate ventures, improving sales and marketing, engaging with investors and improving their pitch.

“Being named a Tech Nation Rising Star doesn’t just get you noticed in the UK; the global tech economy recognises and values this endorsement.  These 33 businesses represent the most promising emerging tech teams, products and services of 2023 and are certainly the ones to watch. “

Some notable key trends amongst the 2023 cohort show that 1 in 3 companies are using AI technology in their product and service development. When looking at sectors, healthtech, cleantech and marketing tech came second as  top areas of focus for this year’s Regional Winners. Additionally, 45% of companies include at least one female founder and almost 20% include a founder from an ethnic minority.

The Regional Winners are progressing to the Semi Finals in February where the competition will culminate with a showcase of the top 10 National Winners in March.