Female-founded construction tech startup Scopey Onsite has secured $604.000 in a pre-seed funding round led by UK-based SFC Capital. Supported by Enterprise Ireland, the investment will accelerate the growth of its AI platform designed to streamline project documentation. The company aims to reduce costly disputes by improving record-keeping for construction teams across Australia, Ireland, and the UK.
A Novel Approach to Construction Documentation
Scopey Onsite’s platform leverages artificial intelligence to convert unstructured communications like WhatsApp messages and voice notes into organized project records. This innovative system allows field crews to capture critical site events in real-time using familiar tools. The structured data is then made easily searchable for office-based teams, bridging the gap between the site and project administration.
The technology was designed for seamless adoption, integrating directly into the daily habits of construction workers. Co-founder Gillian Laging explained that by using existing chat-based workflows, the platform avoids the steep learning curve of new software. This user-centric approach ensures consistent data capture without pulling crews off-site for extensive training, promoting wider and more reliable use.
Addressing Industry-Wide Challenges
The primary goal of the software is to mitigate the commercial risks associated with poor documentation in the construction sector. CEO Jenna Farrell highlighted that the platform enables teams to prepare substantiation with confidence, reducing disputes caused by incomplete information. By providing a clear and accessible evidence trail, the system helps protect contractors from potential claims and financial losses.
This solution arrives as the industry faces increasing pressure to enhance evidence capture at the source to prevent project delays and cost overruns. According to Enterprise Ireland’s Niall Casey, disputes and claims consume vast commercial resources, making efficient documentation essential. Scopey Onsite offers a practical tool to address this pain point, improving accountability and information flow on complex projects.
Strategic Funding and International Growth
Founded in Australia in 2022 by Jenna Farrell and Gillian Laging, the company has since established a global footprint. The headquarters was strategically relocated to Ireland to tap into European support networks while maintaining a strong Australian presence. This dual base allows Scopey Onsite to effectively serve its initial target markets in both hemispheres and build a diverse team.
The investment from SFC Capital, a leading UK Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme fund, is a significant endorsement of the startup's potential. This funding provides the necessary capital to scale the platform and expand its reach across the UK, Ireland, and Australia. It positions the company for sustained growth as it addresses a universal need within the global construction industry.
Overcoming Barriers in Tech and Construction
This successful fundraising round is a notable achievement in a venture capital environment where female-founded companies are significantly underfunded. With women-led startups receiving less than four percent of VC investment, Scopey Onsite’s ability to secure international backing is a major milestone. It highlights the compelling nature of their solution and the founders' perseverance in a competitive landscape.
Ultimately, Scopey Onsite's pre-seed funding marks a critical step forward for the company and the construction tech sector. The investment validates its innovative approach to solving documentation challenges and supports its mission to reduce project disputes globally. As a female-led venture, its success also serves as an important example of breaking barriers in both technology and construction.