Nexus signs wearable tech start-up as latest member

Nexus has secured another major member, bringing one of the UK’s most innovative start-ups in brainwave technology to Leeds.

Thought Beanie, which was set up by Alyn Morgan and Simon Harrison in 2015, will move into Nexus’ new £40m building this spring. The business will have access to the University of Leeds’ 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.

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.

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

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.”