Zudu began as a digital transformation consultancy founded by James Buchan, working with organisations navigating complex technical and regulatory environments.
Over time, that work led to the creation of ePass, a licensing platform designed to modernise how governments manage regulation. Originally developed within Zudu, ePass has since been spun out into a standalone company following early traction, including delivery of the Scottish Government’s national tobacco and vape register and funeral services register.
Building in complex, regulated environments
Zudu operates in a space where technology meets regulation. The company specialises in building scalable platforms and helping organisations unlock value from AI, working with clients including the Scottish Government, Asahi, Weir, NHS, Havas and ScotRail.
As demand for AI-enabled solutions has increased, so has the complexity of delivery.
“AI is no longer a buzzword – it’s becoming the operating system for modern business,” says James. “The challenge isn’t just adopting AI tools, it’s integrating them meaningfully into organisations.”
That challenge is particularly acute in regulated sectors, where reliability, compliance and trust are critical.
ePass was built to address exactly that - providing regulators with modern infrastructure to manage licensing systems at scale.
From agency roots to product thinking
As Zudu grew, the team began shifting from a consultancy model toward a more product-led approach. That transition required a different way of thinking.
Scaling a product like ePass meant sharpening investor conversations, prioritising commercial focus, and making faster strategic decisions. It also required learning from others who had already navigated that path.
Being based at CodeBase placed Zudu inside one of the UK’s most active startup environments, surrounded by founders building and scaling companies in real time. That proximity made a difference - day-to-day conversations, exposure to new ideas, and access to talent all helped shape how ePass evolved as a product.
The role of Techscaler
As the company entered a period of rapid growth, Zudu engaged with Techscaler to access more structured support.
Through the programme, James began working with Entrepreneur in Residence Hannah Mercer, whose experience in safety-critical technology brought a practical perspective to scaling challenges.
That mentorship helped refine Zudu’s investor strategy, strengthen fundraising conversations, and navigate key decisions with more clarity.
At the same time, introductions through Techscaler expanded the company’s network.
This included warm connections to Haatch and access to international opportunities through Techscaler’s Silicon Valley mission, giving the team exposure to global markets and new ways of thinking about scale.
Scaling the business
Zudu has since entered a strong growth phase.
The company has doubled its headcount and is targeting revenue of around £3.5 million in 2025, with ambitions to reach £10 million by 2027.
To support this growth, Paul Duffy was appointed Managing Director, joining from ClearSky Logic to help lead the next stage of expansion.
“Inheriting incredibly talented tech and leadership teams is an absolute privilege,” Paul said.
“There is a shortage of experts in our space, and we feel it’s time to support business growth and AI enablement across sectors.”
The combination of growing demand, a strong client base, and a clear product direction positions both Zudu and ePass for continued expansion in the UK and internationally.
How community supported the transition
For James, one of the most valuable aspects of the journey has been the combination of community, mentorship and access.
Working within CodeBase created an environment where learning happened continuously - not just through formal programmes, but through everyday interactions with other founders.
Techscaler built on that foundation by providing targeted support at the right time.
Together, these elements helped Zudu move from its origins as a consultancy toward a more scalable, product-focused future.
Growth and Milestones Highlights
Zudu and ePass have reached several key milestones:
- Development and spinout of the ePass licensing platform
- Delivery of national regulatory systems for the Scottish Government
- Doubling of team size amid rising demand for AI-enabled solutions
- Projected £3.5 million revenue in 2025 with a target of £10 million by 2027
- Strengthened investor strategy through mentorship and introductions
- Expansion into international networks via Techscaler’s Silicon Valley cohort
Zudu’s journey reflects a broader shift seen across many startups - moving from service delivery to scalable product.
With ePass now established as its own company, that transition is well underway.
And with the continued support of community, mentorship, and network, the next stage of growth is already in motion.
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