Why Cambridge Start-Ups Choose Visiativ and SOLIDWORKS for Success

A recent Forbes article highlighted Cambridge as a thriving hub for start-ups and scale-ups, and it’s no surprise why. With its rich ecosystem of innovation, world-class talent and proximity to cutting-edge resources, Cambridge is the ideal launchpad for ambitious businesses.

At Visiativ, we’re proud to be at the heart of this vibrant community, with our head office located just five minutes from Dassault Systèmes’ – the creators of SOLIDWORKS – UK Headquarters.

A Strategic Location for Strategic Solutions

Being based in Cambridge gives Visiativ a unique advantage. Our close relationship with Dassault Systèmes allows us to offer unparalleled access to SOLIDWORKS and 3DEXPERIENCE software, tailored specifically for start-ups through the SOLIDWORKS for Start-Ups scheme. This programme provides eligible businesses with industry-leading design and engineering tools at a fraction of the cost, empowering them to advance faster and compete globally.

But it’s not just about software. Our proximity to Dassault Systèmes means we can facilitate direct communication, ensuring your feedback reaches the developers shaping the future of SOLIDWORKS. This connection, combined with our comprehensive training and support services, positions Visiativ as the go-to partner for Cambridge start-ups looking to accelerate their product development.

Why SOLIDWORKS for Start-Ups?

Cambridge start-ups operate in a fast-paced, competitive environment. Whether you’re developing cutting-edge hardware, medical devices or consumer products. SOLIDWORKS offers a robust platform to streamline your design process. From simulation and product data management, the 3DEXPERIENCE Works portfolio equips you with tools to bring ideas to market quickly.

Through the SOLIDWORKS for Start-Ups scheme, Visiativ helps early-stage companies by providing 12 months of free access to SOLIDWORKS and 3DEXPERIENCE Works. Alongside these, you’ll gain access to simulation, visualisation, collaboration and data‑management tools. We also provide expert training to ensure your team maximises the software’s potential, with dedicated support to resolve any challenges. Our goal is simple: to help you focus on creating while we handle the technical details.

Cambridge start-ups go from strength to strength

By providing new organisations in Cambridge with the SOLIDWORKS for Start-ups scheme, Visiativ has helped a diverse range of businesses thrive, from science and technology innovators to university spin-outs and product designers. This support empowers start-ups to bring ideas to life faster and compete with confidence.

“At Swing Fitness, we’re harnessing smart engineering and a digital-first platform to transform parks into accessible outdoor micro-gyms for everyone. Visiativ’s SOLIDWORKS for Start-ups scheme has allowed us to accelerate development with the full SOLIDWORKS Premium Suite. Having their expert advice and technical support as we’ve grown has helped us get the most out of SOLIDWORKS ensuring we stay agile as we grow”, said Dr Sarah Briggs, Chief Medical Officer.

University of Cambridge spin-out, ZOMP, is thriving thanks to the scheme, too. Gillies Kleboe, Co-Founder of ZOMP told us: “We’re building the world’s first 3D imaging flow cytometer and cell sorter. This uses advanced microfluidics requiring detailed 3D design which normally involves buying costly software. Visiativ’s SOLIDWORKS for Start-ups scheme has allowed us to accelerate microfluidics development by utilising the full SOLIDWORKS Premium Suite at a start-up-friendly price. They’ve been a great support from day one.”

A Partner Embedded in Cambridge’s Ecosystem

As a Cambridge-based business, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities start-ups face in this region. Our team is deeply embedded in the local ecosystem, working closely with incubators, accelerators and academic institutions to support emerging businesses. We’re not just a software provider; we’re a partner committed to your success.

The Forbes article rightly praises Cambridge’s collaborative spirit, and at Visiativ, we embody that ethos. By combining our local expertise with global tools from Dassault Systèmes, we offer a service that’s both personal and powerful. Whether you’re a hardware start-up building a prototype or a scale-up improving production. We’re here to help you succeed.

Join the Cambridge Innovation Wave

Cambridge is more than a location; it’s a community of creativity and ambition. If you’re a start-up or scale-up in the region, Visiativ is uniquely positioned to support your journey. With our head office in Cambridge, near to Dassault Systèmes, we offer software, training and support tailored to your needs.

Ready to bring your product development to the next stage? Contact us today to learn more about the SOLIDWORKS for Start-Ups scheme.