Technology start-up SICCAR is a Tier Two Member at the AFRC. Their mission is to connect and protect business and society with trustworthy data. Based in Edinburgh, the growing firm enables organisations to share sensitive data through one trustworthy digital platform. The SICCAR platform adopts distributed ledger technology, like blockchain, to deliver a cyber-secure platform for organisations to collaborate on reliable data.
Their platform facilitates data sharing where security, protection, integrity, and governance are required. Initially focused on a public sector audience, SICCAR was keen to explore new markets, such as oil and gas and renewables, and shape its product to target this new customer base. The firm would benefit from the specialist expertise and powerful networks accessible through the AFRC, helping it tap into and better understand new markets.
The AFRC approached SICCAR after identifying an opportunity for its technology in the oil and gas sector, which requires manufacturing traceability across multi-party supply chains. Introducing a new technology and breaking into high-integrity markets, such as oil and gas, requires a high level of confidence from end-users and so our team supported SICCAR with navigating this complex landscape.
The technology’s initial concept was proved quickly and effectively through a proof-of-concept project working with SICCAR to understand the entry points to market, also introducing them to a leading oil and gas firm. This enhanced SICCAR credibility, allowing it to work with AFRC bid writers to build a business case and apply for Oil and Gas Technology Centre (OGTC) funding for a collaborative research and development project worth significant value.
We helped build the consortium of partners, which includes the AFRC, the OGTC, Lloyd’s Register as an inspections and certification body, a leading oil and gas equipment manufacturer, and a major global oil and gas operator.
The programme is designed to assist SICCAR on its route to commercialisation. Our business development and product realisation teams also supported SICCAR to shape its product through constructive feedback sessions. We made a series of recommendations to help the firm address a more commercial audience and customise the features within its platform.
The AFRC approached us, and working with them we gained real insight into the priorities and problems of the industry. They helped us form connections to a new high-value market and the network to secure a funded Oil and Gas industry consortium project, allowing us to increase our team and platform development. Partnering with the AFRC has been a great experience for a growing technology start-up.
Peter Ferry
CEO, SICCAR
The OGTC programme is ongoing and the key funding award received as part of this has enabled SICCAR to employ two new members of staff. Working with the AFRC has also helped SICCAR cultivate a trusted reputation within the oil and gas industry and stimulate interest across relevant parties.
The firm has also learned how to secure quick wins to help build confidence in its product, while at the same time building a strong route to market. Our team has subsequently identified another application for SICCAR technology and has introduced it to a leading UK renewables firm.
The two organisations are now entering into a programme that will use distributed leger technology to track components.
Since receiving funding, the company has: