Tech firm celebrates 16 years in business in Witney

Witney-based digital agency Olamalu, founded in 2010 by husband-and-wife team Kate Berman and Christoph Corvin. , has grown into an award-winning company supporting organisations across Oxfordshire and beyond.

Reflecting on the milestone, co-founder Kate Berman said: “Reaching 16 years in business is a huge moment for us and one we’re incredibly proud of.

“When we started Olamalu, we wanted to create a business that delivered brilliant technical solutions but also genuinely cared about people – from our clients and team to the wider community around us.”

Built on values of creativity and community, the company has expanded its reach while remaining committed to its original mission.

Olamalu has gained particular recognition for its support of the Oxfordshire community and its investment in youth.

It runs an apprenticeship scheme aimed at helping young people build careers in technology without needing to relocate to bigger cities.

In 2024, the company was named SME Apprentice Employer of the Year in the South East regional finals and was highly commended nationally.

Niall Middleton, software developer team leader and former apprentice, said: “My skills grew and grew as I went through my apprenticeship and now I’m at a place where I’m proud to say that I can tackle complex software development projects and develop the skills of our newer apprentices.

“I want to give back to this company after what they’ve given me: a chance to stretch myself, grow and learn these new skills.

“I want to feed that back into the business and be one of the driving forces of Olamalu’s growth.”

The business also supports charities including Homeless Oxfordshire, MyVision Oxfordshire, Oxfordshire Community Foundation, Cogges Heritage Trust, and Wychwood Forest Trust.

Its team runs school coding clubs, attends careers events, and offers work experience to students interested in tech.

Ms Berman said: “Helping young people into careers in tech and building long-lasting relationships has always been just as important to us as the work itself.

“Looking back over the last 16 years, we’re incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received and excited about what comes next.”

Olamalu’s commitment to the community has been recognised by clients such as Cogges Manor Farm.

Guy Reed, general manager at Cogges, said: “Cogges Manor Farm were one of Olamalu’s first customers.

“As a small, independent heritage charity, our website is the heartbeat of our business.

“We’ve just launched a brand-new site which Olamalu developed, and it’s made a difference to us already.

“We’re grateful for the 16 years of support and wish Olamalu a very happy birthday.”