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The University of Southampton
Interdisciplinary Research Excellence

Have an intriguing technology or science led business idea?

Published: 18 May 2015

Applications Now Open for Leading Science and Technology Business Incubator

The Catalyst Centre at the University of Southampton Science Park is once again welcoming applications from budding entrepreneurs with an intriguing technology or science led business idea. Limited places are available from September 2015. It’s not essential to have commercial experience or even a business plan at this stage – just a great concept and the drive and determination to succeed. Successful entrants should expect to be based at Southampton Science Park.

The South Coast hot bed of entrepreneurial spirit leads the way when it comes to helping science and technology start-ups fulfil their potential. Since its inception in 2012, the business incubator has helped many fledgling businesses launch and flourish. Along with coaching and support from a dedicated mentor over a six month period, free accommodation in a lively and collaborative office and up to £1000 towards business expenses, the Catalyst Centre, quite unusually, takes no equity from the businesses it supports. What’s more, because it is solely focused on supporting science and technology-driven ideas, the opportunities for peer support, knowledge sharing and collaboration through networking within the entrepreneurial community of the Science Park are significant and have proved to be invaluable for the companies that have participated to date.

Visit http://www.usspcatalystcentre.org.uk/ for further information, and to submit an application prior to the closing date of Monday 25th May. Entrants will be asked to complete a short online form describing their business idea and a shortlist will be invited to pitch their proposition to a judging panel comprising successful entrepreneurs and business experts.

Peter Birkett, CEO of the University of Southampton Science Park, said: “The Catalyst Centre initiative has demonstrated each year how intensive support and coaching can stimulate businesses to grow and develop. It's not for the fainthearted - the Catalyst Centre process certainly tests commitment - so only dedicated and hardworking people need apply. The fast track growth potential however is considerable."

Graduate company BluPoint is one example of how the Catalyst Centre can truly benefit your business. Company Founder Mike Santer, commented: “I had a great experience. Being at the Catalyst Centre has given my company so many opportunities I wouldn’t otherwise have had and being based on the Science Park has meant that I’ve met a plethora of people that have enabled me to strive forward every day.”

Apply before Monday 25th May at www.usspcatalystcentre.org.uk

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