Exploration meets execution.
A UK-based innovation studio and entrepreneurial platform, purpose-built to channel creative and technical pursuits.
About Portola Ventures
More than just a holding company, Portola Ventures is a dynamic venture lab dedicated to building, scaling, and nurturing high-impact digital products and communities.
Founded with the spirit of the western frontier and named in homage to Portola Valley, California, the company draws deep inspiration from the Bay Area's ethos of bold experimentation, pioneering ambition, and unbounded potential.
What We Do
We create digital products and services that combine elegant design with powerful functionality.
Web & SaaS
Digital tools that solve real problems with elegant simplicity and scalable architecture.
RAAS Platform
Modular, reusable infrastructure to accelerate innovation and empower creators.
Founder Support
Mentorship and resources to accelerate your journey and overcome challenges.
Have a project in mind? Let's discuss how we can help.
Get in touchOur Philosophy
Self-reliance with Scale
Combining indie hustle with systems thinking to build sustainable ventures. We believe in creating self-sustaining businesses that can grow organically while maintaining their core values and vision.
Learn moreFrontier Spirit
Embracing exploration, experimentation, and calculated risk as the path to innovation. We're not afraid to venture into uncharted territory, testing new ideas and approaches to solve complex problems.
Learn moreCraft Over Hype
Prioritizing depth, utility, and polish over buzzwords and trends. We focus on creating products and services that deliver real value, with meticulous attention to detail and quality in everything we do.
Learn moreCommunity First
Believing that ideas become impactful when shared, shaped, and scaled with others. We actively foster communities around our ventures, creating spaces for collaboration, feedback, and collective growth.
Learn moreOur Team
A team of visionary builders and problem solvers dedicated to creating meaningful impact through technology.
Joe Duckers
Founder & CEO
A strategic thinker with a passion for solving complex problems through technology. With a strong academic background in data-driven analysis and a deep understanding of business fundamentals, he brings a unique perspective to building sustainable, impactful solutions. His experience in both technical development and business strategy enables him to bridge the gap between innovative ideas and practical implementation. He has a proven track record of driving growth and innovation in various industries, and is committed to fostering a culture of collaboration and creativity within the team.
Our Portfolio
A selection of innovative ventures we're proud to be building.
The Tariff Research Company
Tailored, affordable trade intelligence for SMEs navigating global tariffs. Delivers actionable insights within 12 hours, helping businesses mitigate risks, ensure compliance, and uncover cost-saving opportunities.
Razorglass
Patented glass blade technology offering exceptional sharpness, durability, and sustainability. Products span personal care, medical instruments, and industrial tools with an emphasis on environmentally responsible materials.
Will Legacy
Fast, solicitor-approved online will-writing service for just £20. Create a legally binding will in under 20 minutes, with expert-reviewed documents delivered via email within 3 hours. Includes free lifetime updates and secure digital storage.
Reduce My Council Tax
Assists UK residents in identifying and appealing incorrect council tax bandings. Analyzes property valuations and historical data to help determine eligibility for reductions, potentially saving hundreds of pounds annually.
Savvy Remortgage
AI-powered mortgage monitoring platform that continuously scans the market to identify better mortgage deals. Provides timely alerts when significant savings are available, potentially saving homeowners an average of £200,000 over a 25-year term. Fully FCA-regulated with a strong focus on data security.
Why "Portola"?
Portola Ventures is named after Portola Valley, a serene and storied corner of Northern California known for its natural beauty and proximity to the heart of Silicon Valley.
The name reflects not only a geographical fondness, but also a mindset: one of constant discovery, openness to the unknown, and reverence for the ecosystems—natural and human—that enable great things to grow.
Learn more about our storyGet in Touch
Ready to explore what's possible? We'd love to hear from you about your project or idea.