SQR ANNOUNCED AS INTERCELTIC STARTUP CHALLENGE 2025 REGIONAL WINNER
15 July 2025

SQR, a leading innovator in tokenised digital identity verification and KYC solutions, is thrilled to announce it has won the prestigious Interceltic Startup Challenge 2025. This accolade celebrates SQR's innovative approach and its significant contribution to building a more secure, trusted and inclusive digital future.
The Interceltic Startup Challenge, launched by the Interceltic Business Forum, supports and elevates high-potential startups from across the Celtic nations: Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, Brittany, and the Isle of Man. Following weeks of rigorous regional selection and jury deliberation, SQR emerged as one of six companies representing Celtic entrepreneurship.
Rob Mercer, MLC, Political Member for Business Isle of Man, commented: “We are delighted to see SQR selected to represent the Isle of Man at the Interceltic Startup Challenge 2025. We congratulate the team for their pioneering approach to privacy-first identity verification and look forward to seeing their continued progress at this important event in Lorient”. He added, “2025 marks the first year for Business Isle of Man as member of the Interceltic Business Forum, a community that fosters economic cooperation and collaboration among Celtic nations. We are pleased to support initiatives like this that enhance international visibility for the Isle of Man, create opportunities for export growth and business development, and support local businesses in expanding into new markets.”
SQR's tokenised digital identity technology stood out for its ability to enhance security, streamline operations, and build trust in an increasingly digital world. This win underscores the growing importance of secure and efficient digital verification in various sectors, aligning perfectly with recent legislative developments such as the UK's Data (Use and Access) Act.
"We are incredibly honoured and proud to be recognised as a winner of the Interceltic Startup Challenge 2025," said Shelley Langan-Newton, CEO of SQR. "This win is a tremendous validation of our team's dedication and our pioneering work in tokenised digital identity. We are particularly proud to put the Isle of Man on the map as a hub for digital innovation, and look forward to showcasing how SQR is building a more secure, inclusive and efficient future for businesses across borders. We're eager to engage at the Interceltic Business Forum in Lorient and explore new partnerships."
As a winner, SQR will take the stage at the Interceltic Business Forum in Lorient, France, on August 4th, to pitch its tokenised identity and KYC solutions, connect with potential partners, and contribute to the future of cross-border innovation.
About SQR
SQR is a leading provider of tokenised digital identity verification and AML/KYB solutions, designed to empower businesses with secure, efficient, and compliant customer onboarding and ongoing verification. By putting individuals in control of their digital identity, SQR helps mitigate fraud, streamline operations, and build trust in the digital economy. Headquartered in the Isle of Man, SQR is committed to driving innovation in RegTech and secure data exchange.
About the Interceltic Startup Challenge 2025
The Interceltic Startup Challenge 2025 is an initiative designed by the Interceltic Business Forum to identify, celebrate, and propel high-potential startups from the Celtic nations onto the global stage. It aims to foster cross-border innovation and highlight the rich entrepreneurial spirit within Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, Brittany, and the Isle of Man.
About Business Isle of Man
Business Isle of Man, an agency of the Isle of Man Government’s Department of Enterprise, is participating in the Interceltic Business Forum for the first time in 2025. Its aim is to strengthen the Isle of Man’s connections with other Celtic nations and to showcase the Island as a dynamic, sustainable, and innovative place to do business. The Agency’s participation includes joining the Interceltic Business Forum as a member, supporting local businesses to attend and present, and enabling Isle of Man companies to compete in the Interceltic Startup Challenge.
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