Leading UK law firm, Shepherd and Wedderburn is for the third year, actively participating in and sponsoring the Edinburgh Centre for Carbon Innovation’s Low Carbon Ideas Lab.
Since its launch in 2014, the Ideas Lab has been providing support, mentoring and world class accommodation for fledgling start-ups in the green technology space. To date the scheme has benefited individuals and groups who have generated product ideas capable of propelling Scotland towards a low carbon economy.
The first three phases of the Ideas Labs have already supported entrepreneurs from various sectors (water, smart cities, transport, big data) and this year’s intake of seven ‘labbers’ will also be able to tap into similar support to help them commercialise their product ideas.
The group will be working on a diverse range of products. Examples include: a small wave energy device that can be used at fish farms and offshore platforms; and an affordable solar lantern for use in developing countries.
The initiative has so far helped produce a number of success stories, such as the two Edinburgh-based innovators, Artur Napiórkowski and his business partner, Denny Schenk. The pair were mentored by Shepherd and Wedderburn on intellectual property issues, and have since gone on to market their product commercially. They have also found fame with their product, the Retromixer — an easy to use, adjustable and affordable adapter that mixes hot and cold water streams — by appearing on the BBC’s hit show, Dragon’s Den.
As well as sponsoring a ‘desk’ at the Ideas Lab office, Shepherd and Wedderburn corporate solicitor, Eilidh Gillanders will provide Ideas Lab residents with legal advice in important areas such as: forming a company; understanding contractual issues; and exploiting and protecting intellectual property. She said: “It’s great to be working with this talented team, all of whom show strong conviction in taking their low carbon products to market. I am certain that their boundless energy, talent and enthusiasm will be rewarded.”
Danny Lee, Corporate Partner, Shepherd and Wedderburn said: The firm has a strong tradition and considerable experience in advising and helping innovative technology and renewables businesses realise their objectives, so we look forward to playing our part in helping the Ideas Lab residents understand and navigate the operational and legal challenges they may face in these sectors.”