SMG UK launches new team to help tech start-ups

Starcom MediaVest Group UK has today unveiled NextTECHnow (NTN), a new team designed to “accelerate unique collaborative partnerships” with tech start-ups.

The move will see SMG UK develop start-up propositions in a bid to deliver “real business benefits” for clients, particularly in the areas of mobile, social and data.

Headed up by strategic development director Jim Kite, the NTN team is made up of eight specialists from across SMG’s portfolio. The NTN function, which follows a successful pilot throughout 2014, will bring the latest technology into the agency to allow the team to match clients with start-ups.

“Over the last year we have introduced over 70 start-ups to our clients, and several of these introductions have already resulted in partnerships that have been activated,” said Kite.

“We’re in daily contact with entrepreneurs from Tech City – either here in our offices or in the Shoreditch area – and the launch of our dedicated NextTECHnow team reinforces our belief that this area has massive growth potential for all parties involved.”

Steve Parker, co-CEO of Starcom MediaVest Group UK, added: “By harnessing the great entrepreneurial talent this city has to offer we will become a much smarter, stronger and more agile agency.

“Today’s announcement builds on our growing reputation for delivering innovation in an open and collaborative way. Ultimately, our aim is to be the agency of choice for tech innovation hubs, start-ups and clients who want to connect forward thinking tech solutions to brand consumer experiences and business goals.”