Thornton Science Park’s High Growth Centre and Energy Demonstrator shares industry and academic expertise in the North West

A new centre to support economic growth and develop innovative products for North West businesses has been launched.

The newly-developed High Growth Centre is located at Thornton Science Park formerly Shell Technology Centre at Ince, near Chester. Co-funded by the University of Chester and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), the High Growth Centre offers SMEs (Small Medium Enterprises) and new start-up businesses valuable advice and support. Designed specifically for companies operating in the Advanced Manufacturing, Automotive, Engineering and Environmental sectors the unique blend of industry, innovation and academia will deliver a much needed boost to the region.

Companies are able to access a wide range of specialist equipment and advice with additional support from the University’s Faculty of Science and Engineering working along-side the team of specialist advisors. Advice and support is available in the following areas: business development; export; sales and marketing tactics and strategic planning; supply chain options; personalised intellectual property and commercialisation, in addition to the technical and Research and Development support from the University’s Faculty of Science and Engineering.

This impressive list of services is available to companies based throughout the North West. Up to 41 flexible workspaces are available for enterprises close to the High Growth Centre. Competitively priced office, laboratory and industrial workshops are in the process of refurbishment and businesses are encouraged to contact the High Growth team to discuss bespoke requirements.

The scale, skills and facilities available to businesses to tap into across the region has to be seen to be believed. Regardless of whether you are a new start, spin-out or SME seeking business or technical support it is well worth an informal discussion with the High Growth team to explore the possibilities.

The High Growth Centre has been set up to encourage new business creation and help existing businesses to develop. It will facilitate the sharing of knowledge between business and the University and develop greater links with local, regional and international businesses.

A recent visit by The Secretary of State for the Department for Work and Pensions, the Rt Hon Iain Duncan Smith MP confirmed additional funding for an exciting energy focused project. The Thornton Energy Demonstrator will enable energy companies to test at scale new power saving and distribution technologies, enabling the development of low cost, environmentally responsible sources of energy. It will also explore behavioural aspects of energy consumption over the next 30 years.

Businesses can find out more about the High Growth Centre by emailing highgrowth@chester.ac.uk

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