Stirling-based advanced sensor producer iGii has been given government support to expand into Japan through its selection for the UK-APAC Tech Growth Programme.

The initiative helps British scaleups unlock commercial opportunities in 11 markets across the Asia Pacific region.

The company will benefit from a six-week business development initiative involving in-depth market research, direct engagement with potential customers and partners, and the development of a bespoke business expansion strategy for Japan.

The UK-APAC Tech Growth Programme is delivered on behalf of the government by international business development consultancy Intralink.

IGii has developed a sustainable, low-cost, 3D foam comprising carbon atoms which retains graphene’s properties while overcoming its scalability challenges. The innovative material enables the creation of highly accurate sensors for industries such as healthcare, water and food quality, agriculture, and battery storage.

“Japan’s in vitro diagnostics and point-of-care testing sectors have seen rapid growth in recent years, presenting opportunities to integrate our revolutionary nanomaterial, Gii, into a variety of products,” Dr Joanne Holmes, sales manager at iGii, said.

“From assembling an expert support team to translating for us during meetings, the team at the UK-APAC Tech Growth Programme is already proving instrumental in connecting us with potential customers.”

Recommended reading

• Scots Tech Firm iGii Secures £8.8M to Accelerate Growth
• iGii In Multi-million Deal For At-home Perimenopause Diagnosis Kit
• Novosound Creates ‘World’s First’ Ultrasound Blood Pressure Monitor

Jeremy Shaw, who heads the UK-APAC Tech Growth Programme at Intralink, said: “Japan is increasingly looking to the UK for technologies to tackle the pressing challenges it faces, including climate change and cumbersome, traditional business practices. We’re excited to support iGii as it taps into the significant opportunities for its innovative products in Japan.”

The UK-APAC Tech Growth Programme helps high-growth technology companies explore and expand into the APAC region. Participating companies benefit from market entry guidance, business development support and connections to potential partners and customers. The programme covers 11 markets including Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan and Australia.