Helsinki-based 7signal Oy, a technology company ensuring the constant quality of wireless networks, has been chosen as Business Incubator Company of the Year. Highly commended in the competition was Mikkeli-based A. Graveolens Ltd. This company has developed an innovative ceramer, which is a non-combustible and non-toxic alternative to traditional plastics and polymers.
The results of this year's competition were announced at Otaniemi in Espoo on 27 November 2009. The competition, which was being held for the sixth time, highlights the most interesting growth-oriented companies in technology incubators. It is organised by the Finnish Science Park Association TEKEL and TEKEL’s Business Development Team.
In the opinion of the judges, 7signal Oy has identified a growing market in the proliferation of wireless broadband networks.
“The market need for network quality monitoring is clear, and the worldwide market opportunities are considerable. 7signal Oy impressed the judges with its single-minded and systematic development, which is evident in such things as the make-up of its team and in the procurement of finance and other resources. The company has also taken great advantage of the assistance offered by the incubator, says Olli Mankonen, Chairman of the panel of judges.
7signal is a technology company that ensures the constant quality of business-critical wireless broadband networks. Unconditional performance is required of a wireless network, for example in the monitoring of operations at airports and seaports, and when a doctor is using it to monitor a patient's vital functions. 7signal’s monitoring system measures a network’s performance, service level and the operation of applications that are utilising it. A problem can be located and solved before the user even notices it.
“The business idea is based on the solution of a major, growing problem. The product has been produced in an innovative way that is worth protecting, and there is a clear global market for it. Not even the major players in the industry have an answer to this challenge,” says Mikko Kaarela, Development Advisor at Technopolis Ventures Oy.
The potential has also been noted elsewhere in the world. For example, in January 2009 the internationally-renowned Red Herring magazine selected 7signal as one of the world’s 100 most promising technology companies.
