In the latest episode of the Cambridge Tech Podcast, hosts Faye Holland and James Parton dive into Part 2 of their conversation with David Cleevely. David, a serial entrepreneur and investor, is a fixture in the Cambridge innovation scene. With experiences spanning public policy, founding organisations, and shaping impactful programs, David shares the essence of what makes Cambridge a global tech hub.
Highlights from the Episode
In this engaging episode, David sheds light on the importance of creating networks and fostering serendipitous encounters to drive innovation. Here’s what you can expect:
The Power of Networking: David recounts the founding of Cambridge Network in 1998, a community-centric initiative aimed at connecting innovators, investors, and academics. He recalls that this network sparked numerous collaborative projects, saying, “We need to do something about networking Cambridge together, and everyone agreed.” Today, it remains a cornerstone of the Cambridge ecosystem, fuelling partnerships and growth.
Founding Cambridge Wireless: David also co-founded Cambridge Wireless in 2001 to ensure Cambridge stayed at the forefront of technological advancements. Originally focused on 3G deployment, it has since grown to encompass wireless and 5G technologies, enabling Cambridge to become a major tech testing ground.
Supporting Startups through Cambridge Angels: David’s role as a founding member of Cambridge Angels has helped bring early-stage funding to ambitious tech companies. For him, Cambridge Angels are “engineered to create a bridge between budding startups and experienced investors,” laying the groundwork for many success stories.
Serendipity in Innovation: David is a firm believer in engineered serendipity—creating environments where chance encounters can lead to groundbreaking collaborations. “Serendipity is not just about chance but about creating opportunities for unexpected meetings that can change everything,” he says. Programs like the Impulse Program, a Cambridge initiative for innovation, embody this philosophy with its tagline, “Where chance encounters happen.”
Key Quotes from the Episode
“Cambridge doesn’t need to follow the Silicon Valley model. We need chance encounters that foster innovation right here.”
“Innovation is about more than inventing; it’s about the execution—how we get these ideas to the people who need them.”
“If you make some money, you ought to give back. Cambridge thrives on a culture of paying it forward.”
Episode Takeaways
Scaling Innovation: Cambridge’s growth should focus on intentional, community-based models rather than emulating Silicon Valley’s rapid scale.
Importance of Infrastructure: David discusses the crucial role infrastructure plays in supporting tech ecosystems, from broadband in the early 2000s to modern 5G networks.
Public Policy and Future Planning: Through roles in policy-making and local economic planning, David emphasizes that tech communities need both visionary and practical planning to sustain their growth.
For tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and anyone passionate about the future of innovation, this episode is a must-listen. David’s insights offer valuable lessons on scaling with purpose, fostering community, and creating an environment ripe for serendipity.
Head over to the Cambridge Tech Podcast on your favourite platform, and don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes that celebrate and dissect the UK’s tech heartland.
Stay tuned for more exciting episodes from the Cambridge Tech Podcast!
To listen and subscribe, search for ‘Cambridge Tech Podcast’ on your favourite podcasting platform or visit cambridgetechpodcast.com.