Cybersecurity spin-out LastingAsset, born from research at Edinburgh Napier University, has been announced as a finalist in the Converge Challenge, Scotland’s leading university entrepreneurship competition.

Co-founded by Zakwan Jaroucheh and Nanik Ramchandani, LastingAsset is tackling the growing threat of impostor fraud, where scammers impersonate trusted organisations using phone calls, texts, and increasingly, deepfake and voice cloning technologies.

Their innovative solution enables organisations and employees to securely authenticate themselves to customers, colleagues, and vendors, preventing impersonation attacks without requiring major changes to existing security infrastructure. Using advanced cryptographic techniques such as public-key cryptography and homomorphic encryption, LastingAsset’s technology ensures trust and safety across communication channels.

About the Converge Challenge

The Converge Challenge celebrates high-potential, research-driven spin-outs and start-ups emerging from Scotland’s universities. Finalists were selected from a highly competitive pool, with projects spanning quantum computing, biotechnology, and engineering - all united by a mission to solve real-world challenges. 

From AI-powered medical robotics and neurodivergent-friendly wearables to aerodynamic transport innovations and accessible laser systems, this year’s cohort reflects the depth and diversity of university-led entrepreneurship. Finalists were selected for their potential to deliver meaningful impact across sectors including health, sustainability, and digital security, with enhanced prize offerings and new challenge categories supporting their journey from research to real-world application.

Winners will be announced at the Converge Awards on Thursday 2 October 2025 at Prestonfield House Hotel, Edinburgh, attended by senior academic leaders, investors, and government representatives.

Learn more about Converge Challenge 2025 finalists here >

Congratulations to the LastingAsset team on this well-earned recognition.

Find out more about Lasting Asset here >