TutorTap wins with a technology platform that links students and tutors
Henley-in-Arden, 11 August 2014 Mercia Fund Management, a leading technology investor, in partnership with the newly launched Forward House Workspace, has announced TutorTap as the winner in ‘The Mercia Investment Pitch 2014.’
TutorTap collected a cash prize of £5,000, plus three months membership to Forward House Workspace inclusive of a hot desk, and strategic guidance from investment executives at Mercia Fund Management – with the prospect of equity investment in the future.
Entrepreneurs James Grant and Zyad Wright founded TutorTap in 2012. Both had previously worked as private tutors, helping hundreds of students reach their potential for exams, job interviews and university study.
They quickly realised that the industry was dominated by expensive agencies offering bespoke tuition. It was clear to them that technology could make tutoring more accessible and affordable. TutorTap was born out of this vision and provides a platform with over 1,000 tutors to help students across a number of subject disciplines.
James Grant, CEO of TutorTap commented on the win: “I am delighted to have won The Pitch 2014. It was great to get such constructive feedback from seasoned investors and I look forward to their continued mentorship as we move TutorTap forward. Congratulations to all the other finalists who made the day thoroughly enjoyable.”
Mark Payton, Managing Director at Mercia Fund Management, added: “TutorTap was up against stiff competition from start-ups with disruptive technologies and high growth potential. The TutorTap team’s presentation was clear and concise, and they confidently answered challenging questions from our investment team. Most impressive was their understanding of the tutoring market and the competitive landscape. We’re delighted that they will use the prize money to refine TutorTap’s offer and wish them the best of luck in the future.
“I would like to thank all the start-ups who took part in the competition on behalf of Mercia Fund Management.”
Runners up included:
RealTAG, a company that is developing anti-counterfeiting technology.
TwoTen http://twoten.is, an online protection and guidance service designed to protect a child whether they are browsing the Internet with a PC, a netbook, a smartphone or a tablet.
HEALI www.heali.co. develops clinical diagnostic and prognostic tests and decision tools that not only guide an individual’s choice of treatment should they become seriously ill, but also gives vital information that can aid health choices at every stage of life.