Ian Hogarth is a distinguished investor and entrepreneur known for his significant contributions to the tech and music industries. He co-founded Songkick in 2007, a pioneering live music startup that revolutionized concert experiences. Under his leadership, Songkick became a key player in the music scene, launching innovative initiatives like Detour, a crowdfunding platform for concerts. Hogarth’s entrepreneurial spirit earned him recognition on Inc. magazine’s 30-under-30 list in 2010 and the British Council’s UK Young Music Entrepreneur of the Year award, showcasing his impact on the industry.
In addition to his work with Songkick, Hogarth co-founded Silicon Milkroundabout in 2010, a career fair designed to connect tech startups with talented graduates. This initiative addressed the talent gap in the tech sector, fostering a vibrant community of innovators in East London. His commitment to nurturing the startup ecosystem reflects his dedication to empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs.
In 2021, Hogarth co-founded Plural Platform, an early-stage venture capital firm that has invested in over 150 companies, including more than 50 in the AI sector. His keen eye for promising ventures has positioned him as a leading figure in the investment landscape, driving growth and innovation in emerging technologies.
Hogarth’s influence extends into the realm of artificial intelligence, where he has co-written the State of AI report since 2018 and serves as Chair of the UK Government’s AI Safety Institute. His leadership in AI safety research underscores his commitment to addressing the ethical implications of technology, ensuring a safer future for all.