Member Article

Open for business: The BIC still going strong after 17 years in business

Providing custom-crafted accommodation and provisions for burgeoning businesses has been the order of the day at the North East Business and Innovation Centre (BIC) for over 17 years now, and in 2011 the privately held organisation is showing no signs of slowing down, as some of the region’s most exciting enterprises continue to grow their operations at the Sunderland site.

This open day will provide an opportunity for new businesses, or existing firms who are looking to grow their operations from a new base, to see the available accommodation first-hand, and be introduced to the full range of services on offer from the North East BIC.

Situated on a 14 acre site upon the banks of the river Wear, at a location formerly held by one of the region’s most productive shipyards, the BIC has been at the coalface of North East since 1994, providing a platform for many businesses which have become significant contributors to both the local and national economy.

Paul McEldon, chief executive of the BIC, says: “I believe the variety of companies we attract to base themselves onsite is down to our ongoing approach. As well as the range of incubator units, industrial units, office suites and bio-science labs we offer in terms of accommodation, the BIC has always aimed to provide our tenants with more than this, in the form of ongoing support from a range of experienced business advisers.

“In 1994 we created ideal accommodation for burgeoning internet companies such as the Leighton Group, as well as providing resources and support to allow them to grow. In 2010 our new Jupiter Centre was purpose built as a hi-tech hub to house a range of cutting edge businesses, which also benefit from the experience of our on-site support team.”

As well as becoming home to home to a growing number of flourishing software-based companies, including Bond Solutions and Viper RF, the Jupiter Centre was recently shortlisted for a RICS North East Renaissance award, where it was the only Wearside build highlighted in a category alongside notable developments across the region, including the Eldon Square extension, Quorum Business Park development, and the Metro Centre Qube.

The new centre was also commended in the Best Commercial Building up to £1 million category at the Northern Region LABC Building Awards, which aim to recognise excellence achieved through building standards, technical innovation and sustainable designs.

Drop in on Wednesday or make an appointment to view any of the premises, which range from 150 - 6,000 sq ft, by contacting Donna Surtees on 0191 516 6066, email donna.surtees@ne-bic.co.uk, or register online at www.ne-bic.co.uk.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Christina Wood .