Purple Transform secures £4.5m to expand AI technology in rail and other sectors

Purple Transform, an AI technology developer based in Oxfordshire, has successfully raised £4.5 million in funding, a round led by Henley-in-Arden headquartered Mercia Ventures through the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II and supported by Sure Valley Ventures. The new funding is intended to support Purple Transform’s growth following contract successes in the rail sector, enabling it to deploy its technology to other industries and expand operations within the West Midlands.

The company’s AI system, known as SiYtE, integrates data from sources such as CCTV cameras and IoT sensors, utilising AI, machine learning, and computer vision to produce actionable insights. Designed to identify potential risks, SiYtE can operate with existing cameras, offering a cost-effective solution without the need for equipment upgrades.

The firm employs over 50 staff and has plans to establish a new technology and logistics centre in the West Midlands, a move projected to create new jobs in the region. This location is strategic, providing Purple Transform with access to manufacturers and a skilled workforce, including engineering and IT graduates from local universities.

“Purple Transform brings together a very high-calibre team with an in-depth knowledge of the rail industry and a strong culture of innovation. The company gained early traction and is now growing rapidly, winning significant contracts in the UK and beyond. This funding will help it to establish itself in the Midlands as the leader in the rail sector and expand into other industries,” commented Jonny Nixon of Mercia Ventures.

Purple Transform’s SiYtE system is deployed across UK rail infrastructure as well as in public and private facilities, including hospitals, schools, and data centres. SiYtE monitors and analyses data from various sources, alerting users to unexpected or suspicious behaviours, thus enhancing safety and operational efficiency.

Recently, the company released Version 3 of the SiYtE platform, which includes a ‘Use Case Builder’. This feature allows users to customise protocols, defining specific incidents to observe or prevent, thereby supporting adaptability and regulatory compliance.

“Purple Transform’s mission is to unlock the full potential of technology to enhance safety, security, efficiency, and overall human well-being. Having successfully deployed our technology in rail, which is a highly complex environment, we’re looking forward to expanding into critical national infrastructure, ports, and manufacturing, among other new areas,” said Gregory Butler, co-founder and CEO.

Image source: SiYtE