When Daniel Bumby and Jason Garner co-founded Simoda in May 2019, their vision was clear: to become the UK’s leading independent technology provider. What wasn’t so clear was how they would transform this ambitious vision into a reality. Starting from Daniel’s back bedroom, they knew they needed the right environment to grow. That’s when they began their journey at Sheffield Technology Parks (STP), a step which helped them move from a two-man startup to an award-winning,  multi million-pound enterprise.

Making the move to STP

In June 2019, just a month after starting the business, Daniel reached out to STP to inquire about office space, knowing about their commitment to supporting startups. Given the early stage they were at, Daniel explained the need for a low-cost solution to give Simoda the breathing room to establish itself.

Tom offered a nine-person office—far too big for Daniel and Jason at the time but all that was available—rent-free for the first three months. Reflecting on this opportunity,  Daniel says, “It gave us an address, a purpose, having a space to come into every day really spurred us on. We made good use of the facilities and everything that was on offer and we felt like part of the community.”

Collaboration and community

The dynamic, collaborative community at the Technology Parks created opportunities that accelerated Simoda’s growth. Daniel highlights the value of attending workshops and events hosted in STP’s boardroom:
“Each time, it felt like every single company that was there wanted to work together, if they could. I also built a relationship with the AMRC through one of these workshops, a relationship I still hold today, which has been very valuable to us.”

Simoda also partnered with other STP companies, including Ferrio, building a network of relationships that boosted the company’s growth. For Daniel, the culture of openness and friendliness was just as important as the professional opportunities. “Whenever you’re in the building, everybody is friendly. People talk to you and that makes a difference, as simple as it sounds,” he says.

Growth that outgrew the space

Within a year, Simoda was on a rapid upwards trajectory. By mid-2020, their team had grown to nine, and it was time to move to larger premises in Kelham Island. Leaving STP was bittersweet. As Daniel reflects, “It was a very sad day when we left the Tech Parks, but it was the right thing to do. I honestly believe that without the organisation we wouldn’t be here today. STP gave us the purpose we needed to focus and grow.”

Global reach

Five years on and Simoda is a true success story. The company now boasts a team of 40, an annual turnover of £8.5 million, and a client base that spans local, national, and international markets. The team has recently established an entity in Amsterdam to meet the demands of UK clients with European operations, while continuing to innovate in fields like AI and cyber security.

Locally, Simoda aims to increase its presence, with a newly formed team targeting small, medium and enterprise sized companies in Sheffield and the surrounding areas.

The right support at the right time

Simoda’s journey from a back-bedroom startup to the successful company it has grown to is testament to a clear vision and message, driven by Daniel and Jason’s commitment. Sheffield Technology Parks is proud to have played a role in Simoda’s incredible success, providing not just a workspace, but an environment for innovation and growth, just when they needed it.

Find out more about Simoda: www.simoda.co.uk