Edinburgh-based startup SWURF — a platform for remote workers — has landed a six-figure investment and appointed three seasoned industry leaders to its board, signalling a new phase of growth across the UK and Europe.
The latest investment round includes follow-on funding from existing backer Gareth Williams, co-founder of Skyscanner.
Joining as chair of the board is Alison Grieve, the founder of G-Hold and a recognised expert in product innovation and international scaling.
Scott Leckie, SWURF’s former Fractional CTO, now takes a permanent board seat to steer the company’s tech evolution.
Daniel Rodgers, founder of Scottish success story QikServe and a leader in tech innovation and strategic development, joins the board as non-executive director.
The fresh funding is backed by the Techscaler programme, Scottish Enterprise and private investors.
The company is also laying the groundwork for a £1 million raise later this year to support further global expansion.
Nikki Gibson, CEO and Co-Founder of SWURF, said: “With Alison guiding our international rollout, Scott shaping our tech strategy, and Daniel bringing a proven track record in tech innovation, strategic development, and digital transformation, SWURF is positioned to grow with purpose and precision. Their leadership is a game-changer as we take SWURF to new markets and new heights.”
Launched during the pandemic, SWURF connects remote and hybrid professionals with underused hospitality spaces, from cafés and hotels to co-working hubs, turning them into off-peak workspaces. Unlike traditional venue apps, SWURF builds community, offering exclusive perks and a growing calendar of co-working events.
Data collected from SWURF indicates that the platform has generated £1.8 million in revenue for host partners, while building a user base of over 11,000 and activating more than 300 venues across the UK.
Grieve said: “In an economic environment where both hospitality and commercial property sectors are seeking new models of resilience, SWURF is targeting a fast-evolving segment of the flexible work economy. This next phase of funding will help us transform more everyday venues into productive, community-driven workspaces, powered by technology and a hospitality-first mindset.”
Rodgers said: “SWURF solves a real pain point for me. When travelling, it’s often difficult to find welcoming spaces to work. I am also passionate about supporting hospitality to find new markets and opportunities. Swurfers typically spend £15–£30 per visit.
“By extending traditional service windows, hospitality operators can tap into this community and create incremental revenue that supports profitability and reduces waste.”