Start-Up Spotlight: IoHu

IoHu is a new South Wales-based business exploring the possibilities of waste repurposing and sustainable product design. Its founder Andrew Roberts, aims to give surplus materials a new lease of life. He does this by transforming items that might otherwise go to waste into useful, practical products.

Working with local businesses and social enterprises, IoHu is developing an approach to product design that puts resourcefulness and sustainability at its heart. From unwanted wood and metal to surplus straps and other materials. The company is exploring how everyday waste can become the starting point for something new.

We spoke with Andrew about his plans for IoHu and his experience with the Welsh ICE and Visiativ partnership. We also discussed how the SOLIDWORKS for Start-Ups Scheme will support his product development journey.

From Waste Materials to New Products

At the heart of IoHu is a simple idea: finding new uses for materials that businesses no longer need.

Rather than starting with a product and sourcing new materials to manufacture it, Andrew begins by identifying surplus resources he can repurpose. He connects with local companies and organisations to find materials such as wood, metal and straps that they would otherwise dispose of.

These materials then provide the inspiration and building blocks for new product ideas, including bags, boxes and storage solutions.

By exploring the potential of existing resources, IoHu hopes to demonstrate how thoughtful product design can help reduce waste while creating practical, useful products.

This approach reflects the principles of the circular economy. Where materials are kept in use for as long as possible rather than being discarded after their original purpose has ended.

The Stacker, a concept product design by IoHu.

The Welsh ICE and Visiativ Product Founders Challenge

Andrew first discovered Visiativ and the SOLIDWORKS for Start-Ups Scheme through the Visiativ and Welsh ICE Inventors & Product Founders Challenge, an initiative created to support entrepreneurs and early-stage businesses developing physical products.

Organised in partnership with Welsh ICE, the challenge brought together inventors, designers and entrepreneurs from across Wales, giving them an opportunity to present their ideas, receive feedback and connect with organisations that could help them take their businesses forward.

And Andrew went on to win the competition! For him, taking part provided an introduction to Visiativ and the opportunities available through their SOLIDWORKS for Start-Ups Scheme, helping him take another step towards developing IoHu’s product ideas.

L-R: Mike Jones of Visiativ, Andrew Roberts of IoHu and Tom England of Visiativ.

The SOLIDWORKS for Start-Ups Scheme

Andrew: “One of the biggest attractions of the SOLIDWORKS for Start-Ups Scheme was the opportunity to access SOLIDWORKS software for free, allowing me to focus my resources on developing IoHu and exploring new product ideas.

“The benefits extend beyond the software itself. The training, shared marketing opportunities and the potential for collaboration. Visiativ’s wider network of businesses and industry contacts has also been incredibly valuable.”

IoHu’s Design Process with SOLIDWORKS

Andrew: “Unlike traditional product development, where designers often begin with a specific product brief, IoHu’s design process starts with the materials available.

“My first step is to establish relationships with businesses and organisations that have surplus equipment. Wood, straps, metal anything that they would need to dispose of.

“I will then be using that waste to create products such as bags, boxes and other storage equipment in SOLIDWORKS.

“Using 3D design software will allow me to visualise these ideas. I can experiment with dimensions and explore how different components might fit together.”

What’s Next for IoHu?

Andrew: “As a new business, IoHu is still at the beginning of its journey, with plenty of opportunities to explore new products, materials and partnerships.

“A key part of its development will be continuing to build relationships with local businesses and social enterprises across South Wales. Identifying surplus materials and exploring how they can be put to better use.

“It’ll be great to have access to SOLIDWORKS through Visiativ’s SOLIDWORKS for Start-Ups Scheme. I’ll be able to develop and refine my product ideas using professional design tools. Supporting my ambition to turn discarded materials into something valuable.

“Beyond developing sustainable products, IOHU aims to create opportunities for collaboration with manufacturers, community organisations and social enterprises.

“By connecting material suppliers, product design and production partners, the business hopes to develop commercially viable products while supporting inclusive employment and creating wider social value.”

Find out more about IoHu on their website.

Are you developing a new product or starting your own business?

Discover how Visiativ’s SOLIDWORKS for Start-Ups Scheme could help you bring your ideas to life.