Partner Article

York Science Park’s ‘Springboard’ and the Biorenewables Development Centre shortlisted in UKSPA Awards

York Science Park’s specialist start-up space, Springboard, and the Biorenewables Development Centre, which is based in the Park’s Bio Centre, have both been shortlisted in the prestigious UK Science Park Association 30th Anniversary Awards which are due to be announced at a gala dinner at the ICC, Birmingham on 10 July.

York Science Parks’ Springboard is one of three finalists in the category for ‘incubation or innovation centre with the best track record of developing start-up and high growth business’, sponsored by Growth Accelerator. Springboard is designed to provide a stimulating and flexible environment for early stage businesses whilst they become established and has been a great success since it was launched in 2010.

The Biorenewables Development Centre (BDC) is also one of three finalists, in the category for ‘innovation partnership’. The BDC bridges the gap between the world-class science base at the University of York and the needs of industry to develop and scale-up new greener processes and products. It can offer funded support and equipment grants to Yorkshire businesses looking to use or improve bio-based materials (including plant, food or feed wastes) in their plants, processes or products. To date the BDC has supported over 100 regional small to medium sized businesses (SMEs) through their European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) programme.

Tracey Smith, Managing Director, York Science Park, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been shortlisted for the ‘most successful innovation/incubation centre’ category for the work we do at York Science Park and for Springboard in particular. Springboard has been a phenomenal success since we launched it in 2010 and has already been the base for 21 new businesses, has assisted 80 companies and created 73 new jobs. We are up against some impressive competition from around the country and are looking forward to showcasing our entry at UKSPA’s 30th Anniversary Awards Dinner in July.

I’d also like to congratulate the Biorenewables Development Centre for their achievement and wish them luck in the ‘innovation partnership’ category. They have made a significant impact since they launched and are going from strength to strength in helping businesses develop greener processes and products.“

UKSPA Chief Executive Paul Wright said: “The shortlist for the 30th Anniversary Awards celebrates the achievements of the sector, our partners, members and their tenant companies. The work undertaken on over 100 Member locations demonstrates world class innovation within the UK and shows how our members and their teams work together to create business success.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Susan Kay .