Wilder Sensing Secures Investment to Boost Biodiversity Tech
Deal News | Jan 13, 2025 | SETsquared
Wilder Sensing, a member of SETsquared Bristol, has secured £700,000 in equity investment to enhance its innovative AI-driven biodiversity monitoring software. The oversight fund from The South West Investment Fund, alongside contributions from Oxford Innovation Finance and Cambridge Angels, signifies strategic support for the expansion of its platform capabilities. Established by Geoff Carss in 2022, the company utilizes bioacoustic recording equipment to capture and analyze wildlife sounds, a tool crucial for accurate biodiversity monitoring. Recently, the firm has expanded its customer base to include Somerset Wildlife Trust and various environmental entities. The company's software represents a significant leap in biodiversity data accuracy compared to traditional methods, and the new funding will create 15 new jobs to drive further innovations in this space. Industry leaders and government bodies are increasingly prioritizing sustainability, placing Wilder Sensing at the forefront of biodiversity conservation and sustainable development efforts. This investment not only underscores the growing need for reliable data-driven environmental solutions but also strengthens the economic vibrancy of the South West region.
Sectors
- Environmental Technology
- Venture Capital and Private Equity
- Agriculture and Farming
Geography
- United Kingdom – Geographical focus as Wilder Sensing is based in the UK, with funding from the South West Investment Fund.
Industry
- Environmental Technology – Industry focused on developing technologies for environmental monitoring and conservation. Relevant to Wilder Sensing's AI-driven biodiversity monitoring platform.
- Venture Capital and Private Equity – Industry involving investments in emerging companies with potential for growth. Relevant due to investment from SETsquared, Oxford Innovation Finance, and Cambridge Angels.
- Agriculture and Farming – Sector focusing on agricultural productivity and sustainability. Relevant as Wilder Sensing targets large-scale farming businesses with its technology.
Financials
- 700,000 – Total equity investment secured by Wilder Sensing.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wilder Sensing | Target Company | Company | Developer of AI-driven biodiversity monitoring software. |
| SETsquared | Incubator | PE | Incubator program that supports start-ups in various sectors, including Wilder Sensing. |
| The South West Investment Fund | Investor | Company | Provided £300,000 through The FSE Group for Wilder Sensing's expansion. |
| Oxford Innovation Finance | Investor | Company | Provider of additional funding for Wilder Sensing. |
| Cambridge Angels | Investor | Company | Angel investor group contributing to Wilder Sensing's funding. |
| Geoff Carss | CEO and Co-founder | People | Leader of Wilder Sensing and key figure in its development and strategy. |
| The FSE Group | Fund Manager | Company | Appointed fund manager for the South West Investment Fund’s contribution. |
| Somerset Wildlife Trust | Customer | Company | One of Wilder Sensing's initial customers in biodiversity monitoring. |
| Paul Jones | Senior Manager | People | Senior Manager at the British Business Bank, who commented on the investment. |