Exeter Impact Awards: Enterprise

During a glittering ceremony last night in the Great Hall, the winners of the University of Exeter Impact Awards 2013 were revealed.

The impact awards celebrate the outstanding contributions researchers at the University have made to wider society.

Each award was separated into categories to showcase the particular area that they benefit.

Research and innovation aren't limited to academic study however and the Enterprise award sponsored by chartered accountants Francis Clark championed those companies that have an outstanding impact on the business world.

The winners were Simpleware a company that designs innovative software that is used by designers all over the world.

Since Simpleware was founded by Prof Philippe Young in 2000 the company has seen a 600 per cent growth in revenue, selling to high profile customers such as NASA, the US Naval Research Laboratory, and Siemens.

The twenty five-strong team have won numerous awards in recent years including two Queen’s Awards (one for Enterprise one for Innovation) in 2012 and 2013.

The company develops, markets, and distributes world-leading software solutions for the conversion of 3D image data into computer models used for design and simulation.

The business secretary Vince Cable, has praised the company for their innovation.

Mr Cable said: "the UK is home to some of the most innovative businesses in the world, especially in sectors such as manufacturing and telecommunications which draw on disciplines like engineering, which have a base in physics.

"we have every reason to be proud as a country of the scientific work that's being done here."

Simpleware is a privately owned company with its headquarters in Exeter and is supported by a world-wide network of distributors and sales partners.