Cisco reveals its six of the best
Networking giant's BIG Awards finale is set to take place on 21 September as final six are revealed
Cisco has announced the finalists for its2012 BIG Awards as it continues it bid to leave a lasting legacy after the London Olympic Games.
The semi-finalists were announced in May for the scheme which is a significant five-year investment of cash technology and human resources with the aim of developing the UK's innovation eco-system and create an environment where start up digital businesses can flourish and grow.
It is being run by Cisco in conjunction with partners JP Morgan, Bird & Bird, DNX and Octopus Communications.
The six finalists are:
- Category: Big Data · Shopitize Ltd - Transform Receipts into Personalised Mobile Shopping Assitant & Rewards
- Category: Collaboration · Six3 Ltd - Six3 Video Messenger
- Category: Future Cities · Nervecentre Software Ltd - Improving patient safety and hospital productivity through collaboration
- Category: Internet of Things · Digital Shadows Ltd - Digital Shadows
- Category: Mobility · ParkatmyHouse Ltd - Community Parking
- The finalist chosen through the Idea Market, also in the Mobility category is: · Snap Fashion Ltd - Snap Fashion - A Visual Search Engine for Fashion
The six finalists now have until 21 September to prepare for the final which takes place at Cisco House, overlooking the Olympic park. They will present their business plans live to a judging panel, who will then choose the winner.
The winner will receive a total prize package of approximately $200,000 - comprised of $100,000 cash, 12 months of mentoring from Cisco and a 12-month support package covering PR, marketing and legal services.
Runners up and semi-finalists will also receive cash and support packages to help develop their brands and businesses.
Phil Smith, chief executive of Cisco UK and Ireland, said: "We have seen some phenomenal talent showcased throughout the Cisco BIG Awards process and we're delighted to announce the final six.
"It has not been easy to select the finalists and so we felt it right to allow our extensive BIG Awards community to support and vote for their favourites through the Idea Market. We truly believe the final six are each a testament to the thriving entrepreneurial community within the UK, and look forward to working with them and supporting them in developing their brands and ideas."