Life Science Accelerator to Operate from Newcastle Helix

Newcastle City Council has appointed BioCity, the UK’s largest life science incubator to run a life science accelerator and business support programme from The Biosphere, a brand new purpose-built 90,000 sq. ft commercial lab and office facility located on Newcastle Helix.

BioCity will focus on creating and growing small businesses and accelerating entrepreneurial activities and speeding new products and ideas to markets. The process will include delivery of workshops around networking, connectivity, skills and acceleration and events that will test the commercial viability of ideas. In addition, they will offer bespoke support and advice on securing funding, establishing a network of experts and upskilling management teams to ensure the long-term sustainability of new and existing businesses.

Councillor Ged Bell, Cabinet Member for employment, Newcastle City Council said: “It’s all about creating the right environment for new, ambitious and growing life science businesses to grow and thrive. Thanks to vital funding from the European Regional Development Fund this programme will play a crucial role in supporting our city to create a dynamic fast-growing life science sector. This will not only support our ambition for long-term economic growth within the life sciences sector, it will accelerate demand for The Biosphere and demand for future phases.

“The development of commercial lab space and the launch of this accelerator programme underpins Newcastle’s commitment to the sector and provides us with a platform to build a strong and internationally recognised life science sector. This accelerator programme directly facilitates the creation of new sustainable life science businesses and we are delighted to have BioCity on board.”

Toby Reid, CEO of BioCity Group, added: “The Biosphere is an exciting new development for the life sciences sector in the North East and we are delighted to have been selected to run its Accelerator Programme. Newcastle has a growing reputation for health and life sciences and with the largest NHS Hospital Trusts outside of London and the strength of the local universities; we believe there is a huge potential for new and ambitious life sciences ventures as well as help existing ones to scale.”

The Biosphere has secured significant funding through the current European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the Government’s Local Growth Deal through the North East Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP). Both funds help local areas stimulate their economic development by investing in projects which will support innovation, businesses, create jobs and local community regenerations.

BioCity will host an Accelerator Programme on the 23rd – 25th April. For more details visit www.biocity.co.uk