The Benefits of Science Parks for Start-Ups: Insights from Sci-Tech Daresbury

Starting a new business is both exciting and challenging. Start-ups often struggle to access funding, resources, and networking opportunities, which are crucial for growth. Science parks offer a strategic solution by providing an ecosystem designed to support innovation and collaboration.

In this blog, we will explore the various benefits of science parks for start-ups, drawing insights from Sci-Tech Daresbury. We will cover:

• Challenges Faced by Start-Ups
• Access to Advanced Facilities
• Networking and Collaboration Opportunities
• Support Services and Access to Talent & Expertise
• Access to Funding and Investment Opportunities
• Collaboration with Academic and Research Institutions
• Enhanced Visibility and Credibility<

Challenges Faced by Start-Ups

In the early stages, start-ups face numerous challenges. Securing funding and development of a business strategy are often the most significant hurdles. Many tech start-ups also lack access to advanced facilities and equipment, which are essential for research and development. 

Additionally, finding the right mentors, experts and networking opportunities can be difficult. Without these critical resources, many start-ups struggle to grow and compete in their respective industries.

Science Parks as a Strategic Solution

Science parks provide an ecosystem designed to support start-ups with integrated access to state-of-the-art facilities, funding, networking opportunities, and access to high-level expertise.

Science and Innovation campuses like Sci-Tech Daresbury have helped numerous start-ups overcome their initial challenges, develop and implement a business plan and achieve sustainable growth. The environment and resources available are a great example of the benefits that science parks can offer to emerging businesses.

Access to Advanced Facilities

One of the most significant advantages of being part of a science park is access to advanced facilities. State-of-the-art laboratories, modern office spaces, and access to specialised equipment that start-ups would not be able to afford on their own are readily accessible.

These facilities enable businesses to accelerate their research and development processes, leading to faster innovation and time-to-market for their products.

For example, Perfectus Biomed Group (PBG), a leading international Contract Research Organisation (CRO) at Sci-Tech Daresbury, utilised the incubation lab facilities within the STFC incubation facilities at Sci-Tech Daresbury when starting out. This gave them access to a range of laboratory equipment for sample preparation and analysis that was critically important in those early days of the business.

This provided strong foundations for the business to expand into their own fitted-out laboratories purposely developed for their expanding business in Techspace One. During the COVID pandemic, they were able to quickly expand their activities moving into additional laboratories in the Techspace One building.

They leveraged their virology expertise to cater to the growing demand for testing biocidal products, such as disinfectants and hand sanitising gels, making it quicker for high-standard products to reach the market. 

This shows how access to advanced facilities  can significantly boost a start-up's capabilities and growth.

Networking and Collaboration Opportunities

Science parks are hubs of innovation, bringing together businesses, researchers, and investors. Many host regular networking events, workshops, and seminars, creating a collaborative environment where ideas can flourish. These interactions often lead to successful partnerships and collaborations. 

Sci-Tech Daresbury established their network called Network Hub back in 2006. It meets monthly with over a 100 people from tech companies and organisations involved in supporting these companies across the North West meeting to identify potential collaborative and business opportunities and be better informed about the wealth of support available. 

For instance, through programmes like the Digital Business Incubation Centre (Digital BIC), companies like Spotlight Pathology are developing AI tools to streamline the diagnosis of blood cancers. 

This initiative improves the diagnostic capacity of pathology services and reduces turnaround times for patients, showcasing the powerful impact of collaboration. 

Support Services, Mentorship and Access to Talent & Expertise

Beyond physical space and facilities, science parks offer a range of support services. Available networks often provide business development advice, marketing support, and legal guidance to new companies.

Mentorship programs connect start-ups with experienced professionals who can provide valuable insights and guidance through critical growth phases.

For example, as part of the Future Club programme at Sci-Tech Daresbury, new businesses receive tailored support, including mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs. 

One such success story is Enturi Solutions, which recently benefited from the guidance and resources provided by the Sci-Tech Daresbury network. This support helped Enturi accelerate their progress and gave them the competitive edge as a start-up business.  

Access to funding and Investment Opportunities

Securing funding is a major challenge for many new start-ups looking for investment. Science parks often have strong relationships with venture capitalists, angel investors, and grant providers. 

Sci-Tech Daresbury offers access to a range of VC funds, angel networks and grant funding organisations through its network and range of events. For example, the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II presented at its recent networking event in July 2024.

Success stories include Evove, a tech company, which secured £5.7 million in funding. 

This investment came from both existing and new international investors specialising in climate-tech and additive manufacturing. The capital will enable Evove to expand their manufacturing capacity and tackle significant water and energy challenges globally.

Collaboration with Academic and Research Institutions

Being close to universities and research institutions provides significant advantages for start-ups. This proximity facilitates collaboration on research projects and offers access to a pool of talented graduates and postgraduates. 

Such collaborations often lead to groundbreaking innovations. Sci-Tech Daresbury's location near leading academic institutions has enabled start-ups to partner with universities to develop new materials and technologies with applications in various industries. One in four companies at Sci-Tech Daresbury collaborate with the University of Liverpool and one in six with the University of Manchester.

These partnerships not only advance research but also provide start-ups with access to top-notch talent, accelerating their growth and innovation potential.

Enhanced Visibility and Credibility

Joining a renowned science park can enhance a start-up's visibility and credibility. This association can attract attention from potential customers, investors, and partners. Many start-ups have gained significant growth and industry recognition due to their presence at a science park and the association they have with the technology companies and knowledge partners that are either located to or partner with the science park. 

For instance, Autentica Car Parts developed a groundbreaking digital marketplace for 3D-printable car parts. This platform uses blockchain and NFT technology to certify genuine parts, significantly reducing costs and carbon footprint. 

With the support of Sci-Tech Daresbury and Innovate UK funding, Autentica Car Parts has successfully launched its product, gaining substantial industry recognition and securing major contracts

The path forward for start-ups and high-growth SMEs

Science parks offer numerous benefits that help start-ups overcome initial challenges and achieve sustainable growth. From advanced facilities and funding opportunities to networking and collaboration, being part of a science park can provide a significant boost to a business in the early days.. 

Start-ups looking for the right location should consider these advantages. Sci-Tech Daresbury provides an environment where businesses can thrive, innovate, and grow. To learn more about how Sci-Tech Daresbury can support your start-up, get in touch with us today.