These Black Creators Are Using AI, AR, And VR To Transform Music, Gaming, And More

The Black Founders Programme, by Digital Catapult and Sony Music UK, is back for its second year, supporting Black British entrepreneurs in creative technology.

Ten new startups have joined the 2024 cohort, applying immersive technologies like virtual, augmented and mixed reality to creative industries.

Supporting Black Deep Tech Innovation

The initiative focuses on improving investment readiness through mentorship, knowledge sharing, and partnerships. Last year, over 80% of participants saw growth in investment readiness, securing key corporate partnerships and investor interest.

This year’s cohort explores immersive technology in storytelling, music production, gaming, and education, providing founders with visibility and investment opportunities.

“Breaking down barriers to successful scaling and commercialisation for underrepresented entrepreneurs lies at the heart of the Black Founders Programme,” said Jessica Rushworth, Chief Policy & Strategy Officer at Digital Catapult.

“The new cohort’s innovative new solutions will undoubtedly unlock new opportunities to grow the UK’s creative economy.”

Meet the 2024 Black Founders Programme Cohort

Here’s a look at the startups driving change this year:

• Code and Culture: Transforming how audiences engage with rap lyrics and cultural content through immersive storytelling platforms.
• Cambridge XR: Developing a VR system to explore aviation history, bringing historical events to life in virtual reality.
• Mismatch Studios: Pioneering digital clothing for virtual gaming worlds, providing sustainable solutions for fashion designers.
• Immersely: Enhancing gameplay experiences by using biometrics to fine-tune game design and player interactions.
• SymphoMe: Personalizing music education with AI-driven, multimodal technology that adapts to individual learning styles.
• Syncd:inLimited: Simplifying global music rights and metadata management for Black artists, making the process more transparent and accessible.
• TwoShot LTD: Addressing copyright issues related to AI-generated music using advanced voice detection technology.
• BeGenio Tech Ltd: Improving educational outcomes with immersive gaming assessments that engage and motivate learners.
• Certi.fi World: Leveraging blockchain and augmented reality to create tamper-proof certifications for artists and entertainers.
• Wellvrse: Merging health, art, and virtual reality to enhance mental well-being through immersive experiences.

Feature Image Credit: Digital Catapult