How Business Sheffield Helped SafePlant Grow in Sheffield’s Tech Ecosystem

At Business Sheffield, we’re proud to support innovative startups that are shaping the future of Sheffield’s growing tech community. Through initiatives like the TechForge Accelerator, we help founders access expert advice, connect with investors and build the networks they need to turn great ideas into successful businesses.

When Zahra first arrived in the UK, she had a clear vision. She wanted to create SafePlant, an AI-based platform that helps farmers and growers diagnose pests and diseases affecting their crops. Her goal was to make food production more sustainable and efficient by combining artificial intelligence with agricultural expertise.

She faced the challenge of building a company without local connections or knowing where to find the right support. Through the University of Sheffield, she was introduced to Morgan Killick, one of Business Sheffield’s Tech Advisors, who guided her through Sheffield’s tech ecosystem and connected her with the TechForge Accelerator.

“As a new person in the UK, I didn’t know anyone who could help me,” says Zahra. “Through the University of Sheffield, I got introduced to Morgan. He had some training courses in Business Sheffield through TechForge, and through that, I entered into a new world of entrepreneurs that were gathering there together.”

With Morgan’s support, Zahra was able to meet other entrepreneurs, access accelerator programmes and explore funding opportunities designed to help high-tech startups grow.

“Through his help, we could find accelerators that could support us,” she explains. “He introduced us to many other organisations that can help high-tech businesses. Without Morgan’s help, we couldn’t have got those funding events and accelerator support to grow our business.”

Today, SafePlant is part of Sheffield’s thriving community of tech innovators tackling real-world challenges with smart, sustainable solutions.

At Business Sheffield, we’re proud to help founders like Zahra access the support, connections and confidence they need to succeed. Whether you’re developing new technology, looking for funding or joining the TechForge Accelerator, our advisors are here to help.

If you’re building a tech startup in Sheffield, get in touch with our team at businesssheffield@sheffield.gov.uk or call 0114 224 5000 to find out how we can support your journey.