Start-up hub ‘could create 2,000 jobs’
UP to 2,000 jobs could be created by a new £2m tech incubator in Manchester.
Located at Manchester Technology Centre, part of Circle Square, the hub will be home to start-ups working in areas such Artificial Intelligence, Data Analytics, Cyber security, Cloud technologies, Internet of Things, Smart Cities and Digital Health.
It is being driven by Manchester Science Partnerships (MSP) – a publicprivate partnership involving Bruntwood, the University of Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust and Manchester, Cheshire East and Salford City Councils.
MSP already owns and operates office and laboratory space on three main campuses – Manchester Science Park, Citylabs, and Alderley Park.
The incubator was launched last week at an event attended by more than 250 people including the Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham, Professor Danielle George from the University of Manchester, leading members of the Manchester business community, as well as industry figures, academics and scientists.
Tom Renn, managing director of MSP, said: “MSP has an unrivalled track-record of helping our customers grow from start-up to scale-up to market leadership by providing a unique and comprehensive range of business support services that delivers real growth. We are passionate about creating communities where innovation and entrepreneurship meet and flourish and we’re excited and proud to be bringing this to Circle Square.
“We are therefore delighted to launch this incubator.
“Manchester is already a European top 20 digital city and this new incubator will play an important role in strengthening the city’s status as a leading location for technology businesses over the coming years.”
MSP believe up to 2,000 jobs will be created at the hub over the next decade.
Start-ups will be provided with services including access to finance, talent and markets advice provided by delivery partners including the leading sector trade body Manchester Digital, talent support services company Complete Resourcing, and Sharp Futures, the social enterprise supporting diverse young people into employment in the digital sector.
The city region’s digital and tech economy is, according to the 2017 Tech Nation report, worth nearly £3bn a year and already supports more than 60,000 jobs.