An innovative drone and data survey company based in Clackmannanshire has won top spot at this year’s HEAT 2024 final. Skyview Surveys took the top prize with their innovative approach to using drone videography to survey and capture commercial and industrial assets. Their service helps businesses gather aerial footage and data to improve safety, reduce operational risks, and support promotion and development activities.
Second Place went to Square Peg Training, a social enterprise providing specialised training on dementia and learning disabilities. Their pioneering work, which involves co-developing resources with people with learning disabilities, addresses a crucial gap in health and social care.
Brown Owl Legal Support from Falkirk claimed third place for their virtual assistant service, which helps legal professionals by managing administrative tasks, allowing them to focus on their core expertise.
The Forth Valley HEAT 2024 competition, sponsored by Robertson Group, is run by Ceteris with support from Business Gateway. This Dragon’s Den-style competition is for businesses that have been trading for less than two years. With nearly £10,000 of prizes up for grabs, it attracted 25 entries from budding businesses from Clackmannanshire, Falkirk and the Stirling area. With an incredibly high standard of submissions from a variety of sectors, the selection of winners was a difficult decision for the panel of dragons.
The prizes were handed out by Josie Saunders, CEO of Ceteris, during the closing event of Forth Valley Business Week, held at the stunning venue of Inglewood House Hotel in Alloa. Each winner received a hand-crafted trophy designed by local firm Evison Creations.
Nathan Evans, Co-founder of Skyview Surveys (1st Place Winner) said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to have won the HEAT 2024 competition.
As a relatively new business, this recognition means a lot to us, and it’s a fantastic opportunity to get the word out about what Skyview Surveys offers. Our drone videography services are helping businesses improve safety, reduce risks, and capture stunning aerial footage for a wide range of commercial and industrial needs. We’re excited about the future and can’t wait to keep growing!”
Chris Buchanan, pre-construction manager for Robertson Construction Central East attended the HEAT final and said: “Congratulations to all who took part. The standard was very high and you could see how hard the finalists had worked on their pitches. The three prize winners should be very proud of themselves given the extremely high standard of the competition and I’d like to wish them the very best of luck with their business ventures.”
Mandy Campbell, HEAT organiser and Business Gateway Adviser said: “This year’s HEAT competition saw one of our highest ever number of entrants, and the standard of applications was truly outstanding.
The range of innovative ideas and businesses from across the Forth Valley was incredibly impressive, making it a tough decision for our judges. Skyview Surveys stood out for their innovation and the impact they’re already making in their industry. We’re excited to see how all our finalists continue to develop their businesses in the years to come.”
A big thank you to prize donors and judges
Winners will receive services and support from prize donors Robertson, STEP, Arm in Arm Accountancy, Forth Valley College, The University of Stirling, Ceteris and Cornwallis Business Services.
We’d like to say a huge thank you to the HEAT 2024 judging panel:
– Zak Stark from Forth Valley College
– Lynn Harris from Forth Valley Chamber of Commerce
– Dr Naja Yusof of Stirling University Management School
– Chris Buchanan from sponsor, Robertson Construction
– Neil Mackinnon from Arm in Arm Accountancy