A software developer who has helped companies in the automotive supply chain create ingenious solutions for its customers is hoping a move to new Coventry premises will enable him to reach a much wider market.
Simple Bytes, founded by Ovidiu Nicolescu, is aiming for rapid growth after its move to the Business Innovation Centre – part of the University of Warwick Science Park – in Coventry.
After great success with providing its services to automotive clients, Ovidiu wants to use the Innovation Centre as a base to reach clients in connected industries and potentially take on permanent staff.
Ovidiu, who previously worked as a software engineer for Jaguar Land Rover, Dolphin N2 and Volta Trucks, founded Simple Bytes after wanting to work with smaller businesses due to their faster pace.
The company delivers tailored engineering solutions for its clients, specialising in reverse engineering, software development, in-depth debugging and root-cause analysis. It also supports customers through comprehensive validation and verification services, including the design and build of bespoke validation rigs.
After building up the business through trusted contacts and word of mouth, Ovidiu was ready to acquire permanent space and take Simple Bytes to the next level.
He knew that the University of Warwick Science Park offered incubation spaces for small businesses, and reached out to its SME Engagement Lead Dirk Schaefer, who was able to offer him space through its Ignite incubation programme at the Business Innovation Centre.
Ovidiu said: “I knew a lot of smaller suppliers from my time working in the automotive industry, so I was able to build a core client base and get a feel for running my own business.
“I wanted to find suitable office space that I could work from during the evenings without any issue, as I’m often away on-site with customers during the day.
“Once I’d spoken to Dirk and viewed the Innovation Centre, I thought the Ignite office space there would be perfect for me. It has allowed me to store equipment if I need to test out software, and it is open to me during late hours.
“It’s also a great place to bring potential clients, which is crucial if I am to grow Simple Bytes beyond my circle of contacts. While I’ve had a lot of success with automotive clients, my software expertise can apply to a wide range of other industries too.
“I currently work with a great network of collaborators, but I’m looking for the right time to increase Simple Bytes’ own headcount.”
Emma Turner, centre manager at the Business Innovation Centre, said: “We’re really pleased that Ovidiu has chosen the Innovation Centre as a place to grow Simple Bytes as a business as well as a space to nurture client relationships.
“The Ignite programme continues to offer flexible occupancy arrangements to allow for rapid growth in line with business need, and gives start-ups access to one-to-one business support from our team of experts.
“We’re looking forward to supporting Simple Bytes to make the most of those benefits, reach new markets and create a new chapter in the growth of the business.”
Made Smarter is a national movement to drive growth amongst UK makers and advance the UK economy. Backed by world renowned businesses and the UK government, it will improve the development and adoption of emerging technologies. Making a real, everyday difference to people from the boardroom to the factory floor.
Sign-up to receive the latest business news, events and opportunities for Coventry & Warwickshire businesses.
We'll send you our weekly round-up but, don't worry, we'll only send you information intended to support business growth, and you can opt-out at any time!
Part of the Government-supported growth hub network and the CW Growth Hub Group
