Technology

Posted on March 12, 2019 by staff

Brain-tracking start-up Thought Beanie moves to Leeds

Technology

A tech start-up which makes hats capable of scanning brainwaves has moved from Bristol to Leeds.

Thought Beanie, which was set up by Alyn Morgan and Simon Harrison in 2015, will move from its current base in Bristol to the University of Leeds’ new £40 million Nexus hub this spring.

The business will have access to the university’s world-leading academic and research expertise and thanks to Nexus’ strategic relationship with leading professional services firm, KPMG, will also benefit from commercial advice and investment connections.

Thought Beanie’s patented EEG (brainwave monitoring) technology allows you to track what’s going on inside your brain, using state of the art sensors embedded in everyday headwear.

Powerful machine learning software delivers personalised, actionable insights to help maximise potential and enhance experience, whatever you’re doing from enhanced sporting performance to better sleep.

The growing business, which will be launching its first consumer product later this year and is working with partners to develop applications in the sport, construction and corporate wellness sectors, will be supported by Nexus’ dedicated team who are responsible for facilitating productive working partnerships and collaborations.

“We are still a relatively small business, so working with Nexus’ Engagement Manager, Chelsea Hardy, has been invaluable,” said Thought Beanie director Alyn Morgan.

“She has helped create the right environment for us and will facilitate productive working partnerships and collaborations with academic experts.

“While keeping our overheads at a minimum is a priority, Nexus gives us the potential to expand and collaborate with other like-minded people.

“A significant portion of our research and development efforts are in partnership with the University, so to be based within the campus makes perfect sense.

“Nexus offers genuine opportunities for start-ups to be part of a collaborative community and we’re looking forward to taking full advantage of all the hub has to offer.”

Thought Beanie has learned first-hand the benefits of partnering on research projects with academics at the University of Leeds. With ongoing research projects underway at the University’s Faculty of Medicine and School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, the decision to relocate to the Nexus centre was an obvious choice.

Nexus recently bolstered its team with the appointment of Jo Howorth as engagement manager for talent and skills.

Dr Martin Stow, Nexus’ director, added: “Securing Thought Beanie as our latest tenant is a major milestone ahead of our official opening this spring and we are thrilled to have such a forward thinking, innovative business joining us at Nexus.

“Not only is this great news for the team here, but it is a positive sign that businesses are recognising the talent pools and potential that the North of England has for growth.

“We look forward to welcoming Thought Beanie to Nexus in the coming months and helping them to further develop their business with our expert team of academics and business leaders.”