Former Mivan CEO named Business Angel of the Year

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  • One of Northern Ireland’s leading entrepreneurs has been named as the 2014 Halo “Business Angel of the Year.”

    Mervyn McCall, co-founder of Mivan Ltd, was awarded the accolade by Halo, the NI Business Angel network, at Belfast City Hall last week.

    Mervyn, who owns MNV consulting, has invested over £1million into eight different startups in Northern Ireland, including group buying website TreatTicket and Tactility Factory, which blends textiles and concrete.

    Alan Watts, Director of the Halo Programme based at the NI Science Park, said, “Mervyn’s commitment to the Northern Ireland startup scene has been remarkable. His ability to not only believe in a product, but also in the people behind the product is what makes him a rousing business angel. The time and dedication he affords to the companies in which he invests has been continually applauded.

    “To be at the top of your game and to want to give something back by investing in the smaller companies coming through is testament to all our Halo angels and we are delighted with their ongoing commitment this year.”

    Seven early-stage companies pitched to over 50 investors at a special event last night, where Mervyn was presented with his award by Stephen Houston, non-executive director at Sophia, who was named as the Business Angel of the Year in 2013.

    Mervyn McCall, previous Chairman of the Institute of Directors Northern Ireland, said he was honoured to have been selected, “I am inspired by the vibrant startup scene here and truly believe the quality of our new companies is world-class. Growing companies need not just funding but also guidance and advice, and it’s very rewarding to be a part of nurturing that growth.

    “Thanks to the work of Halo, the wider network of private sector investors and Halo’s pitching events, there is now a great foundation for angel investment in Northern Ireland- infrastructure and opportunities which were not available when I was starting my own business. I am delighted to receive this award and look forward to future investments in Northern Ireland. ”

    Belfast Lord Mayor Nichola Mallon said, “I want to congratulate Mervyn on this fantastic achievement. He is a worthy recipient of this coveted award. His selfless actions have helped so many people achieve their goals within their new startup businesses. Not only is Mervyn a business investor but he is also an investor in people.”

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