Public-i is the UK’s leading provider of live stream and audio-visual software to local government
The deal represents Sweden based private equity group Lyvia’s entry into the UK market and will fund accelerated growth of SaaS platform
Rickitt Mitchell worked alongside its German partner, Active M&A to deliver the deal.
Public-i was founded in 2003, has 40 employees, and offices in Hove and Halifax. Traditional streaming platforms have not been able to meet local government requirements for security, accountability and voting technology, which has generated a period of growth for Public-i as demand for their bespoke service increases.
Public-i’s proprietary technology clears the way for remote and hybrid government meetings during which participants can vote and share confidential information in a secure environment, boosting participation and guaranteeing security, transparency, and governance.
It is currently used by over 30% of local governments and councils in the UK, along with several partners in Ireland and Denmark, and plans to support more local agencies in the UK and Europe in coming years.
The acquisition marks the entry of Lyvia Group into the UK private equity market. The Stockholm-based company has a successful track record investing in technology-related companies across the Nordic region and beyond.
Lyvia Group is privately owned and specialises in backing entrepreneurial companies offering software solutions and niche IT services. It has opened a new office in London and plans to build a portfolio of alluring, high growth niche technology companies in coming years.
“Democracy needs an injection of technology,” said Rob Dembitz, Investment Partner at Lyvia Group in the UK. “Local governments take the decisions that affect everyone directly. Public-i clears the way for people everywhere to get involved in these crucial discussions.”
