A Newcastle business that brings American Football analytics to fans has received £200,000 of investment.
Pickwatch was founded by Shaun Lowrie five years ago when he realised he could not find the analysis he wanted to know about the NFL online.
He initially set up his own website as a hobby but it has now developed into a growing business employing five members of staff.
The company is based at Clavering House, in Newcastle city centre, and the online platform attracts millions of users.
Mr Lowrie said: “I’ve been a huge American football fan since I was little. I developed the site as it’s something that as a fan I really wanted and when I started sharing it, it really took off.
“I’m keen to bring analytics to the average person, making it accessible and easy to understand. Interest in NFL is increasing, and this investment will help us take the business to the next level.”
Pickwatch works by tracking American football experts at organisations such as ESPN, CBS and Profootballfocus, and compares them for accuracy.
The business has secured £200,000 from the North East Innovation Fund. The fund is managed by Northstar Ventures and Supported by the European Regional Development Fund.
Mr Lowrie intends to use the cash to develop the website and grow his team further. The company currently employs five members of staff but is now looking to recruit another developer.
Rick Charnley, investment manager at Northstar Ventures, said: “Pickwatch has created a substantial user base and with that an opportunity to create a significant business.
“The potential and market timing of a predictive, personalised data analytics platform for the US market, as well as Shaun’s ability to attract experienced angels, means we’re very happy to be involved in the next stage of Pickwatch’s journey.”
