Government backed support organisation the Technology Strategy Board yesterday released the prospectus for a new technology and innovation centre focused on high value manufacturing.
With no destination chosen as yet, organisations are being invited to register their interest in hosting all or part of the centre.
It’s aim will be to bring together academic institutions and businesses, commercialising the results of research where there are potential multi-billion pound global markets.
The manufacturing branch will be the first of six to eight such technology and innovation centres, with the others focussed on energy and resource efficiency, transport systems, healthcare, ICT, electronics, photonics, and electrical systems.
Universities and Science Minister, David Willetts, said:
“I am pleased that the first of these centres will be focused on high-value manufacturing as a strong manufacturing base is an essential component of a balanced and dynamic economy, where exports and investment drive growth.
“Technology innovation centres will work in partnership with universities and businesses. They will bridge an important gap giving innovative firms access to facilities and technical expertise, enabling them to undertake essential development work which can often be beyond the capability of individual businesses.”
In its prospectus, available on its website, the Technology Strategy Board calls for business, academic and other interest groups to comment on the proposals and help shape how the centres will be developed.
The organisation received funding of £200m in the Comprehensive Spending Review to open the centres.
Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg labelled the programme “a key part of our strategy to rebalance the economy” while Business Secretary Vince Cable said the centres “will help to equip UK industry with the ability to capitalise on the future global market opportunities”.
To register your interest in hosting the centre, or to comment on the proposals, see www.innovateuk.org.
