Ben Ridgway and Jamie Cooke, the entrepreneurial duo behind the successful proptech company iamproperty, have been awarded honorary degrees by Northumbria University. The co-founders each received an Honorary Doctorate of Civil Law in recognition of their substantial influence on both the property and technology sectors, as well as their wider contribution to the economic and social fabric of the North East.
The pair established iamproperty in 2009, shortly after graduating from Northumbria University, where they met while studying real estate management and estate management, respectively. The university played a crucial role in supporting the initial launch of their venture, which aimed to revolutionise the homebuying and selling process. From its humble beginnings as a two-person operation, iamproperty has expanded significantly, now employing over 750 people across the UK and providing services to more than 7,000 estate agency branches.
Jamie Cooke expressed gratitude for the recognition, highlighting the company's foundational goal to enhance the speed, security, and transparency of property transactions. He acknowledged the many individuals and partners who have supported their vision throughout the years, contributing to the company's ongoing efforts to improve the homebuying experience for consumers and professionals alike.
This accolade underscores the growing importance of the proptech sector in the UK economy. Companies like iamproperty are leveraging technology, including advanced software platforms and data analytics, to streamline traditionally complex and time-consuming processes in real estate. Their innovations aim to make transactions more efficient, reduce administrative burdens, and potentially lower costs for consumers and businesses.
The recognition of Ridgway and Cooke by their alma mater not only celebrates their individual achievements but also highlights the university's role in fostering entrepreneurial talent within the region. It serves as an example of how local academic institutions can contribute directly to economic growth and technological advancement, particularly in emerging sectors such as proptech.