University of Warwick Science Park celebrates strong growth in latest Impact Report

IASP member University of Warwick Science Park has released its 2023/24 Impact Report, showcasing its growing influence on start-ups, students, and the wider regional economy. The announcement was marked with a celebratory event at the Venture Centre on campus, where the Science Park was also recognised for a second year in the Financial Times’ prestigious ‘Europe’s Leading Start-Up Hubs’ list, the only UK science park to earn the distinction.

The Impact Report highlights an 8% increase in occupancy across its four key sites: the University campus, Warwick Innovation Centre, Business Innovation Centre in Binley, and Blythe Valley Innovation Centre. A total of 152 businesses now call the Science Park home, 16 of which are graduates of the Ignite incubator programme, designed to support early-stage companies with flexible space and expert guidance.

The Science Park also played a vital role in helping companies raise £11.2 million in equity, grants, and debt, supporting their next stages of development. In total, its business support services reached 890 companies and contributed to the creation of 153 new jobs in the last financial year.

The new Ignite Business Lounge, recently opened as the first in a planned series, offers a flexible base for entrepreneurs who wish to benefit from the Science Park’s community without requiring full tenancy.

Mark Tock, Chief Operations Officer at the University of Warwick Science Park, said: “The figures in the Impact Report, alongside our FT ranking for a second year running, are testament to the dedication of our team and the strength of our ecosystem. As we celebrate the University’s 60th anniversary this year, we are excited to continue providing space, support, and funding opportunities to help innovative companies grow.”

Professor Stuart Croft, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Warwick, echoed the sentiment: “The Science Park plays an essential role in supporting business innovation and economic growth. The impact we’ve seen is impressive and absolutely worth celebrating.”