A FAST-GROWING Teesside innovation and tech consultancy has secured major contracts for the Welsh Government as it continues developing Cleveland Police’s first public-facing app.

Alt Labs, set up by Imran Anwar in 2017, has been built on the back of his extensive career in delivering innovative projects for blue-chip clients including the Go-Ahead Group, Govia Thameslink Railway service in London and National Express Group.

The police app is being developed as a convenient and effective way to engage with the police, allowing residents to raise concerns and provide feedback about community issues in their local area.
On hearing the contract was awarded to a local company, Ben Houchen - Tees Valley Mayor said "It’s great that this app will be developed in Teesside for Teessiders, crucial to ensuring safer streets across our region.

Imran said: “Following Alt Labs success with Govia, we were approached to work with the Welsh Government on its rail developments to help drive innovation, technology and start-up growth in Wales.

"We are already working with great, innovative tech partners as well as Alt Labs developing apps and a website for TFW (Transport for Wales) to address challenges and are looking forward to delivering them.”

Read more: North East apprentices learn about tech careers

Imran Anwar, who has already created ten jobs and is about to recruit two more roles, has two strands to his business. He offers a fast-tracking process to get to the heart of a business’s problems and then delivers a five-day ‘Design Sprint’ which goes from the idea to proof of concept.

Talking about his success he said: “I’m proud of my Teesside roots and that I’m building my business in this area.

"Alt Labs is a problem-solving agency. We don’t want to put a plaster over a crack. We want to see why there’s a crack in the first place."

Imran, who has Pakistani heritage is passionate about combating racism and ensuring everyone has the opportunity to develop their careers, from whatever background.

Alt Labs is part of the North East England Chamber of Commerce which has a RED commission that encourages businesses to put diversity at the heart of their operations.

Alison Preston, Chamber relationship manager said: “Imran is a fantastic role model for budding entrepreneurs and his ability to tackle challenges and find solutions is outstanding."

Imran’s background and passion for entrepreneurship started at eight when he learnt about retailing first-hand in his parents’ business.

He was then on track to become an RAF pilot, spending time with the Tornado squadron through Air Cadets before a rugby accident resulted in him having to change his career.

 

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