Mobile Safety Solutions develops web-based software for mobile workers, while MyKnowledgeMap provides learning technology to the public and private sectors.

YHEF, which is backed by public money, can invest up to £250,000 in an initial tranche.

Mobile Safety Solutions was formed in 2006 by directors Brian Alsford, Tony Preston and Nick Barr. Originally developed for the health and safety market, the company’s technology is aimed at inspectors or surveyors who need to record and process data whilst on site. Its customers include project management consultancy Faithful+Gould.

Says Alsford: ‘Our software has many applications beyond health and safety and increasingly our customers are expanding its use to different areas within their businesses.’

York-based MyKnowledgeMap was founded in 2000 and its clients include the British Council, Leeds University, haircare company GHD and Tesco. The company’s web-based software helps organisations assess skill gaps in their workforce and provide online learning tools.

In the past 12 months YFM has invested in deals worth over £19 million in 37 companies in the Yorkshire and Humber region.