Fast Facts

• Formed in February 2011; producing high-quality 3-D engineering data for simulation training
• Key markets; defence, energy, transport, architecture and engineering
• Required investment for growth, new markets and to broaden proposition
• Presented to investors at GAIN Investor Day in September 2011
• Secured substantial investment

Background

As Western Morning News Start-up Business of the Year, Real Visual was already a successful company, working in partnership with global media firm Twofour, producing highly accurate 3D simulation training programmes.

Within a year the full-time team of seven had reached a point where external investment was necessary for long-term growth and to engage with new markets.

GAIN – the benefits

Based at Tamar Science Park, Real Visual was introduced to the Park’s chairman Simon Chamberlain, who subsequently agreed to join the board as chairman. Simon in turn introduced Charles Howeson, chairman of the First Great Western Advisory Board and Nick Buckland, chairman of the Board of Governors for Plymouth University, as non-executive advisors to the business.

In September 2011, GAIN organised its first Investor Day in Plymouth to create high-quality opportunities for large and specialist venture capital firms to invest in local businesses.

Nick Palfrey said GAIN’s Investor Day was a unique and timely opportunity to get in front of major investors who can help businesses reach that crucial next level.

“We went in as a successful albeit small company and met with our new chairman Simon Chamberlain, Rob Sargeant, former CEO of investment bank Lehman Brothers, and Stephen Decani of New Scape Fund Managers, who jointly made the initial investment.

“The guys asked some very good questions and we were able to demonstrate both innovative and exciting plans for growth as well as reducing their risk through our robust proposition and good planning.”

GAIN is running a series of Investor Days to introduce investment-ready businesses from the Peninsula to a variety of potential investors.

Results and the future

• Access to flexible, easy-in, easy-out, high quality business accommodation
• Highly experienced non-executive advisors appointed via the GAIN network
• Capital investment in place to open new markets and expand the proposition
• Plans in place for manageable growth
• Continue to innovate within GAIN’s supportive and collaborative environment

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