DISCOVERING the need for a training solution that combines the effectiveness of face to face impact with digital efficiencies led Patrick Holtby to create York-based 5th Wall.

The business offers an innovative web solution, pushing technological boundaries, to create an interactive e-learning experience which brings real life situations into the training environment to play a role in the up-skilling individuals.

The business is entering the Technology Business of the Year award, as well as the Best Business to Higher Education Link category in light of how it has developed through a variety of projects with computer science academics at the University of Hull and York St John University.

Mr Holtby came up with the idea for a new training solution, but it wasn't until Autumn 2013 when he met York St John University's business support team at York Business Week that he recognised his product was achievable.

Encouraged by what he had found at York Business Week, Mr Holtby applied to the Yorkshire Innovation Fund (YIF) for investment in his plan to redefine online learning.

With YIF support he collaborated with Mike O'Dea of York St John University, and subsequently, with Dr Darren Mundy's Digital Media Team at the University of Hull, to develop an online tool that would allow 5th Wall to recreate their dynamic training room experience online.

5th Wall has also partnered with the Student Internship Bureau at the University of York, creating two twelve-week internships to help bring this product to market.

Mr Holtby said: "These crucial higher education links have enabled 5th Wall to break the limited, binary approach to learning and development, and provide a fresh means to online training.

"The ability to deliver training remotely has led us to explore the international market, particularly the increased online activity has generated interest from American companies.

"With the development of 5th Wall online, the launch of a new website, and the appointment of new employees, 2015 has been an exciting year for 5th Wall.

"Reflecting on the business journey over the past 18 months, I'm confident this product will match the needs of tomorrow's organisations but also see ongoing collaboration with the two universities as vital in ensuring our online product continues to evolve in the future."