14. zeebox

Founders: Anthony Rose and Ernesto Schmitt
Founded: January 2011 (November 2011)
Website: www.zeebox.com

Through its free smartphone app, Zeebox adds a new dimension to the experience of watching TV.  The clever app knows what’s on each channel, and can give you more information about the shows. But that’s not all. It will also allow you to buy and download relevant products; tell you which shows are most popular in real time; and show you what programmes your friends are watching.

Since launch five months ago, it has attracted over a million users. Clients in the form of advertisers, broadcasters and programme makers have also been impressed, as has Sky, which bought a 10% stake in the company, as well as business angels, who have so far invested £3.8m.With an impressive start-up team, an intriguing concept and significant start-up capital, Zeebox is a name to watch.