Pictured above: Eleanor Watson

Birmingham Science Park Aston (BSPA) has proven that technology-based businesses aren't just for the boys, with the addition of two new companies headed up by women.

Innovative e-commerce company Poikos Limited, and social games studio The Play Mob are among the latest budding businesses to join BSPA's Entrepreneurs for the Future (e4f) business incubator.

A unique incubation programme, e4f supports technology start-up companies in achieving growth and commercial success by providing funding support, expert advice and mentoring for six months.  Companies taking part in the programme also benefit from office or desk space alongside access to telephone and internet services.

Katherine Preston, Business Incubation Manager, e4f, said: "There's no denying that the technology sector gives the impression of being a predominantly male-dominated environment, so it's great that we are working with companies such as Poikos and The Play Mob who combat this stereotype. 

"The e4f programme is perfect for technology start-up businesses like these, because we can open doors to funding streams and other business support services. I would like to wish The Play Mob, Poikos and all of the other companies based in the incubator the best of luck in launching their products."

Pictured above: Jude Ower

Established in July 2010, Poikos Limited aims to help deliver custom-fit, custom-designed clothing at affordable prices, thanks to an intelligent piece of software that accurately captures the dimensions of a person's body and can be run through any web camera.

Eleanor Watson, founder of Poikos, said: "Being based at the Science Park puts us right next to other tech entrepreneurs, which provides some real inspiration and insight into different markets, as well as some great networking opportunities.  Being able to make use of the e4f facilities has been instrumental to our success so far."

Alongside enabling the production of made-to-order apparel, Eleanor is also exploring the possibility of licencing her technology to large, established retailers And the healthcare industry.

Play Mob develops games that are designed to tackle environmental and social issues such as reforestation or the impact of negative emotions in young people and has already worked with companies including Shell and Futurelab. Play Mob has also recently received funds from both the US and Singapore governments.

Jude Ower, Chief Executive of The Play Mob, said: "The connections to mentors and other companies that the Park provides is truly outstanding, with a broad range of different networking events that enable us to engage with different businesses from around the city."

Based at BSPA, the e4f incubation scheme is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund.  Since launching in November 2009, the e4f programme has contributed to the creation of 35 new innovative businesses in Birmingham and over 40 new jobs.  Following the launch of the programme's third phase earlier this year, e4f is now looking for more start-ups to join what is fast becoming the centre of Birmingham's tech community.