A COMPANY that developed out of Queen Mary University, the East End powerhouse of knowledge, has been a hit with investors: its initial share offer has been a hit on the alternative investment market.

Shares in Actual Experience, a software analytics group, went up by 500% on the first day of trading on the AIM. Its founders are now, in terms of the share value, millionaires.

The university, which started in 1887 as a philanthropic centre in Mile End to help Cockneys with educational, cultural and social activities, has a good record in technology and other innovation, making it a popular choice with would-be entrepreneurs.

As it says on its website, “…one of the largest colleges of the University of London, Queen Mary… can offer you access to new technologies and academic expertise, collaboration on cutting-edge research, assistance recruiting interns and graduates or hire of our award-winning facilities”.

Hamish Scott 020314 

* Pictured, the Isle of Dogs, eastern extension of the City of London financial district.

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