Hoberman in last-minute rescue deal for Tech Nation

THE Tech Nation industry champion set up by David Cameron to boost Britain’s digital economy is poised for an 11th-hour rescue deal after being stripped of government funding.

The City Road based body, which helped scale up as many as 40% of the UK’s tech unicorns through its growth programmes, announced last month it would be closing its doors at the end of March after ministers unexpectedly withdrew support in favour of handing it to Barclays.

But now parts of the business look set to be rescued by Lastminute.com co-founder Brent Hoberman via his startup investment business Founders Factory. He hopes to preserve the Tech Nation brand and revive its programmes and events.

Hoberman told the Standard: “Tech Nation has been a flagship set of brands to promote and support founders across the UK and shine a beacon of attractiveness as a destination for top entrepreneurs.”

Tech Nation said: “We end this impactful chapter with pride in everything it has accomplished, in awe of the incredible individuals and businesses we have been privileged to champion.”