life-enhancing investments

We invest in, build and accelerate businesses that improve the world around us.

“It all comes down to people. Relationships are essential to good business and that’s where we add value.”

Robert Pugsley, Managing Director

  • Robert Pugsley is an optimizer. He invests in people and their innovative ideas, connecting them with capital so their businesses can flourish, and nurturing relationships.

    As the managing director of Scimitar Ventures, Robert harnesses his considerable investment and consulting experience to help founders build successful, pioneering businesses and maximise their potential. From foreign exchange, tech and biotech firms to high growth SME’s in Africa, his portfolio is as broad as his interests.

    In addition, Robert is a partner at IMS Digital Ventures, a market-leading venture builder which co-founds and invests in disruptive technology businesses. Collaborating with visionary entrepreneurs, industry leaders and influential corporations, IMS fast-tracks both the launch and scaling phases of its ventures.

Case studies


Pupil

With its world-leading AI, Pupil is pioneering the most accurate 3D mapping and geospatial data location software ever developed. Accurate to within 0.1mm, the digital twins it creates of properties drive efficiency, sustainability and lower emissions in the built environment, transforming planning, marketing and finance, and increasing transparency and trust. A true gamechanger for the property industry.

fat llama

Air B+B for your stuff! This geo-located tech platform enables people to rent (almost) anything from within their local neighbourhood. Recently acquired for €41 million by Sweden-based online rental marketplace Hygglo, Fat Llama contributes to the circular economy by encouraging people to buy and spend less, while owners can earn an income leasing out their belongings.

kamma

Founded to ensure that no tenant lives in unsafe accommodation, Kamma confirms that properties meet and exceed the highest environmental standards and is striving for Net Zero. Using cutting-edge geospatial technology, Kamma’s platform locates, extrapolates and displays ESG data for all UK properties, providing an estimate for retro-fitting to make homes safer.

whiskygenius

The world’s first blockchain-based global whisky NFT marketplace, WhiskyGenius brings the power of Web3 to one of the most sought-after investment classes. With a first rate team of whisky, tech and crypto experts, asset-backed platform WhiskyGenius unites all whisky industry stakeholders to educate the public and brings trust and authenticity into rare whisky investment, while offering unique experiences.

Portfolio


technology partner


With in-house capability of over 300 top-tier software engineers, digital marketers and business development talent, IMS Digital Ventures is able to fast-track both the launch and scaling phases of ventures.