The judges commented that they had been impressed by the rapid progress the company had made from University of Cambridge spin-out to established, revenue-generating startup.

Hanadi Jabado, of sponsor Cambridge Judge Business School, said: “This Award is for the most exciting startup in any sector founded in the last 12 months and the science and technology presented for this prize shows how Cambridge remains ahead of the curve with its new generation of startups.

“8power is commercialising novel vibration energy harvesting technology developed by researchers from Cambridge University. The company recently raised around $1 million investment. Target markets are self-powered wireless and IoT devices for sensing and measurement in industrial applications and major infrastructure projects.”

CEO of 8power, Dr Antony Rix, collected the award on behalf of the team: “We are delighted that 8power has been acknowledged as a leader in this field and would like to recognise the University of Cambridge researchers who invented the highly distinctive intellectual property that we are now using.

“The award reflects the strength and commitment of my co-founders and the 8power team developing this technology to power smart sensors. We are grateful for the continuing support of our investors, Cambridge Enterprise, the University of Cambridge Enterprise Funds, and IP Group, as we grow the company to address this exciting market opportunity.”