It is the irrepressible hallmark of our species to gaze at the cosmos with wonder and to question, explore and innovate. We are driven by an innate desire to push forward the frontier of human knowledge and understanding.

This unending quest has been helped by the scientific method, a rigorous and systematic approach which helps us understand the world in greater clarity, and which has enabled the technologies that have shaped the modern world.

Those who channel that spirit by taking risks, creating opportunities, and building things — entrepreneurs — have made an extraordinary contribution to the world, helping us live healthier, happier and more meaningful lives.

ABOUT

The Maxwell Forum is The Entrepreneurs Network’s hub for British entrepreneurs working in science and technology. It seeks to bridge the gap between the lab, boardroom, and Westminster. 

It focuses primarily, though not exclusively, on the areas prioritised by the Government in its Science and Technology Framework: advanced connectivity technologies, artificial intelligence, engineering biology, quantum technologies and semiconductors. 

It was created to investigate how the UK can better harness science and technology for national prosperity, and to ensure Britain is the best place in the world to start and grow a business. 

The Forum is named after the renowned Scottish physicist and mathematician James Clerk Maxwell (1831 – 1879), who is responsible for the classical theory of electromagnetic radiation — the first theory to describe electricity, magnetism and light as different manifestations of the same phenomenon. The Maxwell Forum is led by Dr Mann Virdee.

Aims

  • Policy and advocacy: We identify the regulatory and legislative barriers, from R&D tax credits to planning reform, that prevent scientists from becoming founders and startups from becoming unicorns.

  • Thought leadership: We conduct deep-dives into new ideas in deep tech, life sciences, and innovation, ensuring policy-makers understand the needs of the frontier economy.

  • Connecting the ecosystem: We host high-level briefings and events that bring together the UK’s leading scientists, venture capitalists, and political leaders to solve the commercialisation gap.

  • Talent and migration: We champion the UK as a global magnet for the world’s brightest and brightest minds.