Dave Norwood is the founder of IP Group PLC and Oxford Science Innovation, now Oxford Science Enterprises, the largest university venture fund globally, which has brought over £1.5 billion of investment into Oxford since its inception in 2015. He has spoken about Oxford's potential as a hub for innovation, particularly in AI and quantum computing.

He has also founded and been a director of numerous UK technology companies including Oxford Nanopore, Proxy Imogen, Synergen, 4D Pharma, Index IT, Evolution Group and Aura Capital. Dave is also a grandmaster in chess and has represented both England and Andorra internationally.