Tue, 08 Sep 2026 | ADMINISTRATION
Smart Data Foundry Limited, a not-for-profit data analytics firm based in Edinburgh, has fallen into administration, with buyers now being sought for the company’s assets, including intellectual property.
Founded in 2022, Smart Data Foundry was established with the aim of unlocking the value of private sector financial data for the benefit of the public via secure data sharing, research and analytics.
The company sought to support organisations from the public, private and third sectors in their efforts to address an array of societal challenges through responsible data use.
However, administrators say that the business had experienced intensifying financial pressure this year amid a funding shortfall and ongoing constraints on its cashflow.
A number of alternative options were explored, but, with the company ultimately unable to meet its financial obligations, directors opted to place the business into administration. Upon the appointment of administrators, the company ceased trading, with 25 staff made redundant.
Five members of staff have been retained for a short period in order to assist the joint administrators in preserving and safeguarding Smart Data Foundry’s assets, principally its intellectual property.
Following their appointment, the joint administrators have worked with key stakeholders as they seek to maximise value from the business’ assets for the benefit of its creditors.
One of the company’s joint administrators said: "The directors and management team worked hard over an extended period to secure a sustainable solution for the business, exploring a range of options before the company entered administration."
“Smart Data Foundry has made significant efforts to demonstrate how financial data can be used to support economic wellbeing objectives, including helping to address poverty and inequality.”
“Our immediate focus is on supporting affected employees and preserving the value of the Company's intellectual property. We are now exploring opportunities to realise value from the assets for the benefit of creditors and encourage any interested parties to contact us."
In accounts for the year to July 31 2025, Smart Data Foundry Limited reported turnover of £3.5 million, down from £4 million a year earlier, while operating losses widened from slightly under £335,000 to nearly £349,000. At the time, its current assets were valued at close to £1.4 million, but net liabilities exceeded £659,000.
Find out what's driving the wave of consolidation reshaping the UK estate agency market
Opportunity to acquire a financial software provider with an integrated suite of cloud-native banking solutions. The business boasts a mature, modular software suite and an established global customer base.
Discover a unique opportunity to acquire a cutting-edge B2B wholesale commerce platform that revolutionises the offline purchasing process into a seamless digital workflow.
This bespoke software development agency is renowned for its custom web, mobile, and integrated solutions, boasting a highly technical team and strong client retention across various sectors.
Looking for more businesses? Try our off-market tool.
Please choose your settings for this site below. For more information please read our Cookie Policy
These cookies are necessary for our website to function properly and provide you with access to all features.
These are analytics cookies that help us to improve the way our website works.
These are used to improve the functional performance of the website and make it easier for you to use.