Yorkshire AI PLC - Why Is David Richards Leading The Investment?

Something pretty big is happening up North. An investment company called Lift Global Ventures has decided to go all in on artificial intelligence, changing its name to Yorkshire AI PLC. And to lead the charge, it has brought in a major name from the tech world, David Richards. It is a move that signals a huge push to turn Yorkshire into a powerhouse for cutting edge technology, focusing on everything from manufacturing to healthcare. This is not just a simple name change; it is a statement of intent.

A new name for a new game

Let us break it down. A company that used to focus on general technology and financial media has completely changed its tune. It is now called Yorkshire AI PLC, and as the name suggests, its new mission is all about artificial intelligence. Think of it like a football team deciding to focus only on winning the Champions League instead of just playing in the local league. The company is based in Sheffield, and this rebranding, which needs a thumbs up from shareholders, shows it is serious about becoming a key player in the AI world. This strategic shift is a significant investment in the future of technology.

Leading this new venture is David Richards MBE, who has been appointed as the executive chair. Richards is a well known figure, having founded the software company WANdisco. His journey has not been without its bumps, though. He previously left WANdisco after a fraud scandal came to light, which was linked back to the actions of a single sales employee. But now, Richards is channelling his experience into this new company, aiming to drive its growth and innovation. His appointment is a clear sign that Yorkshire AI PLC means business and is ready to make some serious investments in the future of AI.

So, what is the big idea with Yorkshire AI Labs?

A key part of this whole plan is the close relationship with Yorkshire AI Labs, also known as YAIL. Richards is a partner at YAIL, which is a really interesting organisation. You can think of it as a sort of talent scout and coach for brand new AI ideas. YAIL works with brainy people at universities, big established companies and start up founders to find the most promising AI concepts. Then, it helps them grow into proper, scalable businesses. This is where the magic of applied AI research happens.

Because of this partnership, Yorkshire AI PLC gets a front row seat. It gets early access to a stream of exciting new AI ventures. These are not just pie in the sky ideas; they are focused on solving real world problems in big industries like:

• Manufacturing
• Healthcare
• Finance
• Energy

This connection to YAIL is the new company’s secret weapon, giving it a head start in finding the next big thing in applied AI innovation before anyone else. It is a smart way to ensure a steady pipeline of top tier investment opportunities.

Kicking things off with a clever investment

Yorkshire AI PLC is not just talking the talk; it is already making moves. The company recently announced a deal with IntelliAM AI PLC, a firm based in Dinnington, South Yorkshire. IntelliAM is all about making manufacturing smarter using artificial intelligence and is listed on the Aquis exchange. Through a share swap, Yorkshire AI PLC now owns a piece of this promising manufacturing tech company. This first investment is a clear signal of the kind of high growth technology ventures the company wants to back.

IntelliAM is already working with some big names, like the bread maker Hovis, helping them use AI across their factories. It has even landed its first order in the US and is working with the Connection Technology Centre. The company stated to the London Stock Exchange, “The shareholding in IntelliAM provides immediate exposure to a proven SaaS business model in a global smart manufacturing market and is the first transaction in a planned pipeline of AI investments developed with YAIL.” This move provides immediate growth potential and exposure to the booming smart manufacturing market.

The master plan: turning Yorkshire into an AI hub

The bigger picture here is incredibly ambitious. The team behind Yorkshire AI PLC wants to put the region on the global map for AI. Mark Horrocks, a non executive director of the company, puts it simply:
“Our mission is simple: to back the pioneers of artificial intelligence who are redefining industries and creating lasting economic value. IntelliAM exemplifies that ambition as a homegrown Yorkshire company using AI to make manufacturing cleaner, smarter and more competitive.”

He continued, highlighting the scale of the vision:

“This marks the start of something much bigger for the Company. By combining the expertise of our working relationship with Yorkshire AI Labs with the access and visibility of a public company, we are building a platform capable of turning Yorkshire into a global centre for applied AI innovation. We are backing real companies solving real problems and delivering tangible returns for our shareholders.”

The plan is to connect the three things every great tech hub needs: bright ideas, skilled people and money. With David Richards at the helm, the company believes it has the right leadership to make this happen. His experience with AI advancements is seen as a massive asset.

Horrocks added:

“I am delighted that David Richards has accepted the appointment of executive chairman in order to drive our push into AI. David’s forward thinking approach ensures that the company remains at the forefront of AI advancements, capitalising on emerging opportunities. His established connections within the industry will facilitate partnerships and investments that are crucial for growth. We are excited to leverage his expertise and vision to propel the company into a leading position in the AI investment landscape.”

Ultimately, the new name and new focus are all about creating a powerful engine for growth in the North of England.

“The new identity aligns the company with its long term vision to champion the growth of world class AI companies from the North of England and beyond, connecting capital, talent and innovation.”