London technology startups to showcase wares in US trade mission

New London mayor's first overseas trip to tout tech startups' technology

Twenty-three London startups will travel to the US later this month to showcase products in a trade mission that will also serve as Sadiq Khan's first overseas trip as London mayor.

The International Business Programme trip takes in Chicago and New York during a seven-day visit.

The startups will have the chance to secure more funding and connect with and pitch to senior-level tech executives and potential clients and partners.

Companies on the programme include PCA Predict, Screendragon, Sky-Futures and Rocketseed.

Khan explained that taking the firms to the US underscores London's position in the world's economy.

"London is one of the most vibrant and diverse places in the world to start and grow a technology business," he said.

"These high-growth companies have the potential to become the next global tech giants and I am delighted that they will join me in showing the world that London is open to talent, business and collaboration."

Another company on the trip is Shopitize. Carl Englemarc, the startup's general manager, said that the event will be invaluable in expanding its connections in the US.

"We are delighted to have been chosen as one the London technology firms to travel to America for the mayor's International Business Programme," he said.

"It gives us a chance to network with talented individuals and companies and, as well as being a fantastic opportunity to progress with our international expansion plans, allows us to discuss Shopitize and how our unrivalled technology can be used to the highest standard."

The trip will also be interesting for the firms to see how the recent Brexit vote has been received by investors in the US looking at the UK as an opportunity.