Member Article

Boost for Stockport project to support fledgling businesses

Stockport Council’s business support project has received a major boost.

Oxford Innovation has been appointed as the new manager of the project, Stockport Business Incubator.

Oxford Innovation has extensive experience in operating state-of-the-art incubator facilities. Currently managing a network of 20 centres across the UK used by over 700 companies, Oxford Innovation aim to provide businesses with a structured and supportive environment where companies can readily access first class business support as well as flexible workspace. Business incubation offers young companies high quality flexible facilities, designed to nurture and develop small businesses with the potential for growth.

From its base on the 3rd floor of Broadstone Mill in Reddish, Stockport Business Incubator is part of the Council’s portfolio of managed workspace facilities and provides a high quality environment for new or growing businesses ranging from small technology-based firms to creative and cultural enterprises. Developing the Incubator to become a destination of choice for young businesses was made possible through the Council securing £400,000 from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). The funding will enable tenants to access dedicated on-site business support to help them achieve their growth aspirations. Since the Incubator was established in 2010 it has been a hub for entrepreneurial and business activity within Stockport whilst also supporting over 35 businesses as they seek to grow and thrive. Councillor Iain Roberts, Executive Member for Regeneration and Economic Development, said: “We’re proud of the achievements that companies have made as a result of the support from Stockport Business Incubator.

“Appointing an organisation of the calibre of Oxford Innovation is significant for Stockport as it will help ensure that the business incubation facilities on offer are first class. The ERDF funding is a great boost as it helps guarantee the continuation of this facility locally in the coming years.” Chris Allington, Managing Director of Oxford Innovation’s Business & Innovation Centres division, added: “We are delighted to have been appointed to manage the Stockport Business Incubator and to have this opportunity to assist local businesses to succeed and grow.

“We are pleased to be working in partnership with the Council and our intention is to further develop the Stockport Business Incubator to ensure that it becomes a flagship centre for enterprise and business growth in the area.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Simon Malia .