Latest news with #DavidHarris
Entrepreneur
15-07-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Breathe, Then Build
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. You're reading Entrepreneur United Kingdom, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. David Harris never set out to be a founder. For more than 30 years, he worked behind the scenes of the respiratory drug delivery industry, quietly growing frustrated with its obsession with imitation over innovation. Inhalers were treated as afterthoughts - mere packaging for the drug - and time after time, projects failed not due to lack of funding, but due to a lack of understanding of the physics that actually governs how patients breathe. In founding CHI, a Cambridge based healthcare technology company, Harris made a bold bet: that true change comes not from copying what exists, but from finally solving what doesn't. And to do that, he had to strike out on his own. Entrepreneur UK finds out more.... What inspired you to start your business? I've worked in the respiratory drug delivery industry for over 30 years, and my frustration has accumulated over this time as the industry has simply tried to copy existing tech - rather than addressing the real need. There is a huge sector set up around copying existing technology on the market. For example, I worked at a number of product and technology development consultancies and the vast majority of project work was focused on developing generic 'me-too' devices that didn't offer any improvement whatsoever for the patient. Pharmaceutical companies develop drugs - and treat the inhaler as packaging - and if it is easier to just copy something that is already proven, they aren't going to try and improve things. Copying existing devices isn't easy or cheap, so it is a false economy. Almost all of these projects fail, and never reach the market, or the patient. I didn't start my career dreaming of starting my own business. I've focused on inhalers because I want to improve patient outcomes. Over time I came to realise that this is what needs to be done for the industry to see real change, and as the consultancies I worked at were limited to do what was asked of them, starting a company to really innovate in this area seemed to be the most logical choice." What was the biggest challenge you faced in the early stages? Money. We nearly went under a few times, and that is hard especially when you have bills to pay. Developing technology takes time, licensing it takes time, and then getting through regulatory hurdles takes time, and there aren't many VC companies out there who have the patience for such long exit times. As a result, we've had to keep a tight control on costs while at the same time taking a lot of risks. Technically there are challenges too. The equipment that you need to acquire data is very expensive, so we had to invent cost-effective ways of testing the technology to prove out concepts, test our assumptions and to be able to confidently show potential customers and partners. There is also a significant lack of understanding within the pharmaceutical companies, and in fact generally, about respiratory physics. In a laboratory setting you can set up an experiment to mimic a patient inhaling in a very controlled manner - but in the real world it is a dynamic, transient, and complex event. Trying to work out what actually goes on has historically been difficult to do precisely, which is why clinical trials often just don't go as expected. That shows that the underlying physics are just not understood. How has the UK's economic environment impacted your business decisions? Ten years ago, it was possible to apply for grants, but there are fewer grants available and much stronger competition now. We've tried to stay clear of VCs as much as we can because we need people who understand the long timescales that are necessary for medical products, and the challenges of innovation. Instead, we've looked to partner with larger companies (like Aptar Pharma) in the industry who can bring expertise and commercial reach that we don't have. It was a model born out of necessity, but it is a very promising approach as it gives us a clear route to scalability, and that is important to our customers. How do you stay ahead of industry trends and innovate within your field? We listen and we try to understand the future barriers and challenges that the industry will face. For example, patients have very different inhalation capabilities, which can be affected by the condition that you are trying to treat. This lack of consistency among patients and in clinical trials is an issue, so we developed a platform called Aeolus, which has an in-built amplifier. This means that the formulation inside the inhaler doesn't know if it is being inhaled by an old person with poor lung function or an Olympic swimmer - they'd get very similar doses. Another example is that we also heard from the industry that new generations of large molecules (like biologics) will require larger masses of drug to be delivered. Rather than expecting a patient to use a traditional inhaler multiple times, we set about developing Quattrii, which is a platform specifically for large fill masses. There are many other trends that we've identified that impact on the decisions we make. But sometimes, inspiration comes from left field. When it comes to 'how' we innovate, that requires hiring the right people and creating the right culture. What steps do you take to build a strong company culture? We hire the right people. Being based in Cambridge gives us access to incredibly creative people, but we need people with integrity and who are open, honest and trustworthy. We empower everybody to contribute towards solving problems and, importantly, give them permission to fail. The reality is that we fail more than we succeed, but if we take the time to understand and challenge our failures, we can learn and improve. If you hire good, honest people and offer them a safe space, then they will feel able to take responsibility and have the freedom to explore solutions. What advice would you give to someone thinking about starting a business in the UK today? Don't let your ego get in the way. Pursue your ideas but don't become blinkered. Challenge your ideas and biases or find people who can. It's also important to be prepared for the financial risk, which can be difficult as you get older. I was in my late 40s when I started CHI, which meant that I had a good amount of industry experience and a large network, but at the same time I have children and a mortgage. At times, these financial pressures have felt overwhelming, especially in the early stages.
New York Times
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Times
Art Led the Way to a Very Hot, and Spicy First Date
David Brian Harris, who goes by Spooky Harris as an artist, was finishing up his latest project in March 2023 when he was spotted by Heather Johnson Phillips. He was in downtown Manhattan Beach, Calif., outside a spa under construction, covering floor-to-ceiling windows with self-care-themed words and images in ink on seamless paper. 'Oh my God, he's so cool,' said Ms. Phillips, 50, turning to her friend. 'I'm going to say 'hi.'' Mr. Harris, 52, whose work has appeared in galleries and shows in New York and Los Angeles, was in his work wear, a paint-splattered jean shirt and jeans, and an indigo-dyed scarf. 'I usually don't do this,' said Ms. Phillips, who had recently admired his work at the Right Tribe gallery-boutique nearby and on Instagram. 'I'm Heather.' In the brief exchange, she came off as 'very stylish,' he said, in 'cool sunglasses, aviator, but Italian.' In April, they chatted a bit more, laughed a lot, and exchanged numbers when she stopped by his studio, a garage in Redondo Beach, to pick up a 50th birthday gift for a friend — a black and white painting of a Swiss cheese in Sumi ink, which she had spotted on Instagram. 'You're fun,' texted Mr. Harris, then wanted to kick himself for being so forward. But Ms. Phillips thought it was the perfect thing to say. Want all of The Times? Subscribe.
Yahoo
03-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
BWX Technologies (BWXT) Subsidiary Kinectrics Expands HV Cable Testing Capacity
BWX Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:BWXT) is . On June 5, Kinectrics Inc., a subsidiary of BWX Technologies, signed a contract with HIGHVOLT, a supplier of high-voltage testing systems. According to the announcement, the agreement is designed to increase Kinectrics' high-voltage (HV) cable testing capacity in the field. Specifically, Kinectrics will purchase an additional 10 mobile resonant test systems (RTS) from HIGHVOLT. The 'multi-million-dollar investment' solidifies Kinectrics as the largest independent global provider of on-site HV cable testing services, the statement said. It stated further that the expansion is a strategic response to the anticipated growth in the HV cables market, which is 'expected to quadruple' due to the increase in renewable energy construction projects. This growth is leading to a higher demand for reliable commissioning services for newly installed subsea and underground transmission networks. David Harris, Kinectrics' President and CEO, emphasized that while dependable HV testing tools are essential, the knowledge gained from years of field experience is equally vital. Harris highlighted that Kinectrics remains a technical leader in the sector through ongoing innovations in diagnostic methods, the frequent publication of research and technical papers, and active participation in international standards organizations such as IEC, CIGRE, and IEEE. BWX Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:BWXT) is a specialty manufacturer and service provider in the nuclear sector. It produces nuclear components, fuels, and reactors for both government and commercial clients, including the U.S. Department of Energy and Department of Defense. While we acknowledge the potential of BWXT as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 10 Best Healthcare Penny Stocks to Buy According to Analysts and Goldman Sachs Energy Stocks: 10 Stocks to Buy. Disclosure: None.
Sky News AU
02-07-2025
- Business
- Sky News AU
NSW Government to offer concession card holders discounted washing machines in partnership with The Good Guys in new cost of living support initiative
The New South Wales Government has announced a new cost of living relief measure by offering some 8000 people across the state with a discounted washing machine. The measure comes after the Minns Government handed down the state budget, which was pitched as a cost-of-living relief budget. Part of this budget included a move to install more energy efficient appliances in homes and rentals across New South Wales, with the government partnering with electrical retailer The Good Guys to offer discounted washing machines. The program will benefit some 8000 households and will be focused mainly on those who are in social housing, pensioners and veterans. The washing machines, which usually retail for $686 will instead be offered to those eligible categories for $250, with the fee covering the delivery, installation as well as a two-year warranty and the removal and recycling of their old appliance. 'This could not come at a better time, we know people are struggling with cost-of-living pressures and high water and energy bills are a huge part of that,' said minister for water, Rose Jackson. 'We're not just talking about cost-of-living relief, we're delivering it. This program will lower power bills, cut water use, and make life a little bit easier for thousands of people,' she said. 'These new washing machines are not only good news to help people save, but they're also better for the environment too, saving an estimated 20,000 litres of water each year,' the water minister added. Minister for Veterans David Harris said, 'This is a fantastic initiative allowing veterans, pensioners and social housing tenants to get their hands on a great appliance valued at more than $650 for just $250, including installation and removal.' 'Veterans served in defence of this great land, so the least we can do to assist in lowering their energy bills. 'This is just one of the ways the NSW Government is helping people every day with cost-of-living pressures," he said. The Minister for seniors, Jodie Harrison added, 'I encourage pensioners to apply for one of these new washing machines. 'At a highly discounted rate, this service will take your older machine away and replace it with a new and improved model,' she added. 'Not only will you end up with a brand-new washing machine at less than half price, but it could also potentially lower your utility bills, too.' Managing director of The Good Guys, Biag Capasso added, 'We're delighted to be teaming up with the NSW Government to roll out these subsidised washing machines across the state to people who need them most. It's one of many ways The Good Guys help families with their day-to-day needs. 'This program will be in high demand which is why we have plenty of stock, and our delivery team is ready to help customers, in both regional and metro areas, by removing old top loaders and install the new Westinghouse machines.' The discounts come as the Albanese government announced a $1.8 billion extension of the Energy Bill Relief Fund by six months in the 2025–26 Budget. Households and eligible small businesses with electricity bills will receive up to $150 in energy bill rebates until the end of 2025, but critics have argued this does nothing to solve the cost of wholesale electricity prices which increased to 9.7 per cent under new rules set by the Australian Energy Regulator.
Daily Mail
23-06-2025
- Business
- Daily Mail
NSW Labor government commits $202million to help improve the lives of Aboriginal Australians and close the gap
The 2025/26 NSW Budget, to be handed down on Tuesday, will allocate $202million to Closing the Gap initiatives to help improve the lives of Aboriginal Australians. This investment will be delivered partnership with Aboriginal organisations and communities, to achieve more targeted and tangible outcomes for Aboriginal people across health, education, employment, criminal justice, and economic development. The funding includes $20million for Aboriginal-led, culturally safe programs that support Aboriginal adults and children leaving custody, aiming to reduce reoffending. It also includes $13.4 million for the NSW Aboriginal Legal Service and the Department of Communities and Justice to reduce the over-representation of Aboriginal children in the criminal justice system through Aboriginal-led solutions. An additional $17.9 million will support Aboriginal organisations, such as Local Aboriginal Land Councils, to acquire and activate land - such as through rezoning - to unlock economic opportunities. Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris said the Labor Government has maintained a strong focus on delivering real outcomes for Aboriginal people. 'Delivering on Closing the Gap and creating a more equitable state, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, is not only the right thing to do; it builds a better NSW by strengthening our society, economy, culture and communities.' The budget will also allocate nearly $80 million to position NSW as the best place to innovate, attract investors, and scale businesses. NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey says his third budget declares the state is 'open for business' to help expand its $900 billion economy. 'There is a global race for capital ... and we want NSW at the front of that race.' The state has a world-leading workforce and offered businesses stability and connection to global industries, Mr Mookhey told reporters on Monday. 'What we want to add now is the confidence for businesses to get on and make the big calls to sign off on the $1 billion-plus investments that drive growth,' he said. Housing affordability would remain a major issue but supporting business confidence was a major factor to boost jobs and wages and address unaffordability, Mr Mookhey said. 'We're pretty determined to get the balance right,' he told AAP in the lead-up to the budget. 'There's a lot of opportunity and a lot of ambition in NSW, and the changes we're making are designed to hold on to what we love.' The government will duplicate efforts to speed up planning, with an Investment Delivery Authority to receive almost $18 million. Similar to the Housing Delivery Authority which started in December, the four-person panel will override councils and accelerate planning approvals for businesses amid complaints making major investments in NSW is too complex and time-consuming. Other funding announced on Monday includes $38.5 million for Australia's largest technology and innovation hub, Tech Central, and $20 million for emerging technology commercialisation to help boost growth in the housing and energy sectors. In 2024, NSW accounted for 65 per cent of Australia's venture capital investment, and hosts five out of eight 'unicorn' companies - privately-held start-ups valued at over $1 billion. Major projects to be considered by the new panel may include hotels, data centres, renewable energy projects and commercial developments. Too many major projects from the private sector were getting bogged down in red tape, Premier Chris Minns said. 'It's costing us high-paid, high-skilled jobs in our modern economy, and something has to change,' he told reporters on Monday from data centre operator NextDC's facility in Sydney's north. NextDC chief executive Craig Scroogie said the announcement would help the company move on its $15 billion investment pipeline. 'The planning system was never designed to move at the speed that technology is moving, let alone the speed that artificial intelligence is changing the way we live and work every day,' he told reporters. 'This is a global opportunity for Australia to be a leader in artificial intelligence and large-scale infrastructure, and it needs modern planning systems to be deployed.' NSW LABOR GOVERNMENT BUDGET PLEDGES TRANSPORT: * $452 million to increase bus services, including $56 million to buy 50 new 'bendy' buses and $150 million for more regular school bus services in outer Sydney and regional areas * Road upgrades and new signage around Western Sydney Airport precinct totalling $80 million EDUCATION: * $9 billion across four years for public school infrastructure, largely focused on growing suburban communities, including three new public primary schools with attached public preschools in west and southwest Sydney * $3.4 billion towards TAFE and upskilling, including $40 million to enable 23,000 construction students to complete their apprenticeships for free HEALTH: * Another $700 million towards construction of the $2 billion Bankstown Hospital and relocation of Bankstown TAFE * A statewide pathology hub to be established at Westmead, with the $492 million investment to include an upgrade to a high-security lab researching dangerous pathogens such as Ebola and measles * $23 million to cut down the overdue surgery list by 3500 * $83 million to bolster maternity care ABORIGINAL AFFAIRS: * $202 million for Closing the Gap projects, including $23 million towards community-led suicide prevention programs LAW AND ORDER: * $125.8 million for cybersecurity upgrades to NSW Police, including $50 million to upgrade outdated hardware * Victims' Support Service funding boosted by $227 million across five years to help victims of violent crime access counselling * Upgrade of Downing Centre to create 15 new physical and virtual courtrooms and $48.3 million to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for more solicitors HOUSING: * $145 million across four years for the state's Building Commission to hire more prosecutors, investigators and inspectors to weed out dodgy residential builds * $30.4 million crisis intervention package for homelessness services * Extension of build-to-rent tax concessions beyond slated 2039 end date INNOVATION AND BUSINESS: * $80 million in innovation funding, including $38.5 million to boost technology hub TechCentral * A four-person Investment Delivery Authority to fast-track planning approvals for billion-dollar projects ENVIRONMENT AND PUBLIC SPACES: * $110 million to maintain public spaces, including the repair of heritage-listed Pyrmont Bridge and maintenance of fire trails * Construction of the Newcastle Logistics Precinct, housing wind turbines and electrical transformers used in renewable energy projects, for $115.5 million * Commonwealth Veteran Card holders will receive free vehicle entry to all NSW National Parks CULTURE: * Establishment of a $100 million fund to find a suitable location for a second major film studio in Sydney * $280 million to support the screen and digital games sector, including rebates for NSW-based visual effects and digital games productions
