Recite Me, a website accessibility software business based in Gateshead, has secured 拢4.6 million follow-on investment from BGF.
The firm was founded in 2010 by Ross Linnett after he was diagnosed with dyslexia when he left university. Inspiration struck when he was working on a laptop with integrated assistive technology and questioned why websites weren鈥檛 already more accessible.聽
Linnett then developed a plugin toolbar for websites that opens extensive accessibility and language functionality, allowing users to customise their online experience.
The assistive technology removes online obstacles for those with disabilities, visual impairments, learning difficulties, the population of older age, as well as those who speak English as a second language.
The funding – which takes BGF鈥檚 total investment in Recite Me to 拢8.8m – will help to drive international growth and expand its product offering.
鈥淭his marks a significant step forward in our growth ambitions and is another positive milestone on our investment journey with BGF,鈥� said CEO Linnett.
鈥淚n the last 12 months, our pioneering technology has supported more than 7 million users across Europe, the United States and Australia. Our ambition is to extend that reach 鈥� not only to accelerate our own growth, but to help millions more people to access online content around the world.鈥�
BGF investor John Healey added: 鈥淪ince 2012, Ross and the team have built up a strong reputation as leaders in website accessibility software in the UK. However, the market potential is vast with 98% of the world鈥檚 websites having accessibility issues.
鈥淭he follow-on funding will enable the team to strengthen their position in this exciting and attractive market, while investing further to develop their industry-leading technology that to date has had a fundamental impact on the lives of millions of people across the world.鈥�