Glasgow-based tech startup Gigged.AI has been awarded £100,000 in funding to scale development of its digital talent sourcing platform.
The Scottish Enterprise grant will be used to re-platform the firm’s product following a period of heightened demand and expand into North American markets.
Using AI-driven technology, the Gigged platform matches businesses with internal talent and external freelancers for projects. A talent matching algorithm then pairs the client with the most suitable people from either the company’s internal workforce or Gigged.AI’s talent network of freelancers.
Commenting on the funding, CEO Rich Wilson said: “In 2021 we launched our Minimum Viable Product (MVP) to test demand. We learnt quickly there was a huge demand from SMEs to tap into freelance talent while a huge opportunity for larger enterprises to tap into internal talent.
“This grant allows us to build both solutions on one platform which will boost innovation and reduce staff attrition.”
Wilson added: “North America is a huge target market for Gigged.AI and we have a significant pipeline already generated.
“This grant allows us to deliver to that pipeline in early 2023 while SDI have already created strong links with future investors and clients in Silicon Valley.”
Rhona Allison, interim MD of Business Growth at Scottish Enterprise, commented: “Not only has Gigged.AI developed an innovative tech solution that transforms how businesses can recruit and retain talent, but they are also building a successful company with the potential to grow quickly and at scale.
“We’re delighted to support Gigged.AI as part of our Scaling Services portfolio as they take the next step on their exciting global journey.”
Gigged.AI was founded in 2021 by Rich Wilson and Craig Short in response to the rapid growth of the gig economy and changes to working practices during the coronavirus pandemic.
The company has grown rapidly since launch. In October last year, the Glasgow-based startup secured £600k in an oversubscribed funding round led by Techstart Ventures.
The investment boost fuelled significant expansion which saw the firm double its headcount.
Source: DIGIT