What Moves Us

What Moves Us: Is Now the Moment for Start-ups to Supply into Rail?

In this fourth instalment of our How to be a Start-Up in Rail series, we dive into the critical material that start-ups need to navigate the rail sector: the challenges, the opportunities, and why there’s never been a more exciting time to get involved.

We ask the big question: Is now the moment for start-ups to supply into rail? With a growing recognition from government of the barriers small tech companies face, and the need to embrace technology to drive efficiency, is there finally a plan to improve access and make the most of what start-ups have to offer?

We highlight how small companies—agile and tech-driven—are often best placed to bring cutting-edge solutions to market quickly.

The GB rail ecosystem is brimming with the talent, ideas, and energy needed to drive digitisation, boost sustainability, and improve passenger experience. But what’s the best route in? Should start-ups look to collaborate with larger, established suppliers to fast-track their journey—especially ahead of the formation of Great British Railways?

We also unpack different start-up mindsets: those aiming for scale and exit, and those in it for the long haul.

Finally, we offer practical guidance on accessing funding, especially R&D grants—ideal for early-stage support—and share top tips for writing a strong application: start early, be clear, and prepare well.

 

Find out more about the Rail Innovation Group at: railinnovationgroup.com

What Moves Us: Skills Beyond Scale

In this episode, Deb, Johannah, and Liam discuss the Rail Innovation Group's latest research report, Skills Beyond Scale, which explores the skills landscape within our vibrant community of startups and small digital companies. They highlight the crucial role our members play in driving innovation and shaping the future of rail through cutting-edge technology.

Join the conversation as they discuss how the community is harnessing AI, data analytics, and other advanced technologies to:

• Develop groundbreaking digital solutions
• Transform customer experiences
• Enhance operational efficiency

The team also examines the emerging skills our members need to stay ahead and the challenges they face in upskilling for the future. This report launch marks the start of a series of events throughout 2025, so stay tuned for more discussions on this critical topic.

Download the report: railinnovationgroup.com/thoughtpieces

What Moves Us: Shaping the Future of Great British Railways

In this episode - the second part of our discussion on the Great British Railways (GBR) foundation consultation, A Railway Fit for Britain's Future) - Liam and Johannah explore their response, breaking down key implications for start ups and innovators in the rail sector.

We delve into how innovation and commercial incentives could be prioritised and measured in GBR’s new structure and discuss the need for a framework that fosters continuous improvement, grassroots creativity, and new products that enhance passenger experience.

We also make the case for stronger collaboration between government, start ups, and small digital companies ensuring that rapid, innovative solutions can meet both immediate and long-term transport needs. Who is best placed to deliver these solutions; and how can we make sure start ups have a seat at the table?

Finally, we share practical advice on how to respond to consultations effectively with a focus on solution-driven contributions.

Make your voice heard! Join the Rail Innovation Group to amplify your impact and help shape the future of rail. Get in touch with your thoughts—we want to hear from you!

 

https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/a-railway-fit-for-britains-future

What Moves Us - How to be a Start Up in Rail - Intro

With the launch of the consultation on the foundation of Great British Railways (A Railway Fit for Britain's Future), we kick off a special series exploring a key question: how to be a start up in rail? Or perhaps more importantly - would you even want to be one?

In this episode, Johannah and Liam break down the themes of the consultation document, examining how different structural models and outcome priorities could shape the industry's willingness to engage with small suppliers.

We also share initial thoughts on whether the proposed framework will allow for flexibility - particularly in adapting to evolving Government priorities - and what it could mean for private operators. Finally, we outline key topics for future episodes in this series.

Join us as we unpack what this transformation could mean for startups looking to make their mark in rail.

 

See the consultation: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/a-railway-fit-for-britains-future

 

What Moves Us - Employer Branding with ThinkinCircles

In this episode, Deb Carson and Liam Henderson speak with James Whitelock, Managing Director of ThinkinCircles, about the power of employer branding and how companies can better attract and retain the right talent.

As we prepare for our upcoming Skills Beyond Scale report, this conversation is perfectly timed. We explore the perception of rail - does the industry's image need improving before individual companies can stand out? James shares expert insights on differentiating your employer value proposition, shouting about the exciting opportunities within the sector, and using innovative strategies to attract talent in ways you haven’t considered before.

From environmental policies to EDI initiatives, we discuss how great workplace culture isn’t just about remuneration - it’s about positioning your company as an attractive, forward-thinking employer. But beyond that, how does securing top talent make your business a more attractive supplier, aligning with client priorities and industry expectations?

We also dive into branding a 200-year-old rail industry as a place of innovation, the international opportunities available in rail supply, and why giving the rail community a voice is crucial for future growth. Plus, James shares invaluable advice for founders and small business owners navigating employer branding and talent retention.

Listen now to uncover fresh perspectives on employer branding in rail!
Want to hear more? Join James and the ThinkinCircles team at our Meet Up on 13th May - head to our website for event details.

Links:

Meet Up: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/meet-up-becoming-an-employer-of-choice-tickets-1207299558479

ThinkinCircles: https://thinkincircles.com/employer-branding-service/

Blogs: https://thinkincircles.com/?s=employer+branding&et_pb_searchform_submit=et_search_proccess&et_pb_include_posts=yes

James Whitelock: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameswhitelock/

James' Pod: https://www.themarketingrules.com/

 

What Moves Us - In Conversation with Legal Pythia

In our first episode of 2025, hosts Liam and Johannah kick off the year with an exciting conversation about innovation, challenges, and growth. Joining them are Jeremy Bormann, CEO, and Raymon Ceasar, Head of R&D at Legal Pythia, a cutting-edge startup leveraging AI to detect fraud in documents and datasets.

This insightful discussion dives into:

• The diverse, international team behind Legal Pythia and how their unique mix of cultures fosters innovative problem-solving.
• Navigating compliance challenges and preparing for the EU's upcoming AI regulations.
• The journey of pivoting as a startup to meet customer needs and refining the value proposition.
• Communicating effectively with customers to demonstrate the impact of their solution.
• Insights on securing government grant funding and the critical role of product testing and user interface design.
• Overcoming the talent challenge: how startups can attract top-tier talent while competing with established tech giants.

Plus, we hear the team's advice for new start ups and close with a warming message about the friends you meet along the journey!

What Moves Us - Predictive Maintenance with Predge

In this episode, Jesper Westerberg, Chief Product Officer at Predge, shares insights into the role of predictive maintenance in the rail industry. We discuss how data-driven solutions are transforming maintenance strategies, reducing costs, and improving reliability.

Jesper highlights real-world applications, including innovative algorithms for predicting wheel damages and transforming maintenance planning. We also explore the challenges of adopting new technologies in a traditional sector and the importance of partnerships and modular solutions.

Whether you're a rail professional or curious about innovation in transport, this episode offers a practical look at the potential of predictive maintenance and how smaller suppliers can drive change.

What Moves Us at InnoTrans 2024

Deb, Johannah & Liam reflect on their experience at InnoTrans 2024, where the world of rail meet in Berlin for networking, demonstrations, conversations and more. We were pleased to see many members of the Rail Innovation Group present to promote how small companies can supply great solutions to support the industry's future.

What Moves Us: Atmo Technology

In this episode Johannah & Liam are joined by Guy Barkley, CEO and Founder of Atmo Technology - our newest member!  To celebrate this new partnership, Guy joined the pod to discuss Atmo’s environmental capabilities and the impact they aim to achieve in the rail industry. This podcast delves into the innovative solutions Atmo offers and their contribution to a sustainable future for rail transport. We take the time to explore how a company develops from a 'spin off' to a fully fledged SME in the supply chain, and the challenges along the way. With great advice for new start ups the team covers aspects including responding to industry challenges, procurement routes, grant funding and trade shows, all while maintaining a healthy work environment.
Links: https://www.atmotech.co.uk/

What Moves Us - Small Voices Expanding Horizons

In this episode, Johannah, Deb and Liam discuss the first steps taken by the new UK Government to improve and integrate the transport system. With reference to the bills proposed in July 2024's King's Speech. We cover our hopes and anxieties of the new, more comprehensive public transport investment and operational model.

We also discuss our most recent thoughtpiece, released in June 2024, Small Voices Expanding Horizons - Reflecting UK Start Ups International Growth: which looks at the successes and challenges faced by our members as they venture into international markets. The report draws on research and firsthand accounts to highlight the strategic approaches, partnerships, and innovations that have enabled our members to overcome barriers and succeed internationally. Download the report at www.railinnovationgroup.com