Dynamic cluster is priority

Building a dynamic cluster of life sciences companies is a key priority within the economic diversification strategy for the north-east.

The region has established strengths in areas including biologics and medical technology, and a sector ecosystem comprising a triple helix of academic researchers, clinicians and businesses, which provides the ideal environment to create and grow companies.

At Opportunity North East (One), we are investing in projects and programmes to develop the entrepreneurial culture of innovation across our universities, research institutes, the NHS and our companies.

At the heart of the sector ambition is the creation of an innovation hub for life sciences, healthcare and medtech businesses on the Foresterhill health campus in Aberdeen.

It will accommodate start-up, spinout and growth companies, and capitalise on the opportunities across the research, clinical and commercial communities.

The innovation hub will also enable company creation and growth, help to anchor businesses here long-term and be a catalyst for inward investment.

Alongside this physical space, we will deliver a comprehensive programme of bespoke support to enable the successful development of life sciences businesses at all stages of their growth.

One has committed major funds to this and is working with other potential funders on the overall support package.

Professor Stephen Logan