Trailblazing partnership creates one-stop shop for business support

Derby City Council, the University of Derby and East Midlands Chamber have announced they are joining forces to create a one-stop shop for business support.

The trio have formed a partnership, which is set to benefit small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) across the city and beyond.

Under the arrangement, the city council’s Economic Growth team has started sharing working space at the university’s Lonsdale House, with plans for both to liaise closely with the chamber.

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, the city council’s cabinet member for city centre regeneration, culture and tourism, said: “We are fully committed to supporting businesses of all sizes to locate, innovate and thrive in Derby.

“By working together collaboratively, we can ensure that partners complement each other in providing easy access to expert business support, advice and funding opportunities.”

Professor Kathryn Mitchell, vice-chancellor of the University of Derby, said: “This initiative is a superb example of key organisations coming together to support the prosperity and ambitions of our region.”

The co-location essentially creates a one-stop shop for business support, with access to the university’s research and training, talent pool of students and graduates, and state-of-the art equipment, as well as funding advice and opportunities from the city council and membership benefits from East Midlands Chamber.

Among the university teams which will be sharing the space are experts from the Regional Economic Observatory, which conducts regional business research to inform and influence government policy.

Researchers working on the university’s Zero Carbon theme will also be based on site, providing opportunities to collaborate with businesses and share insights into the latest innovations in the drive towards net zero.

Businesses from the advanced manufacturing, net zero, life sciences, creative and digital sectors are among those expected to benefit from the partnership.

The space also houses key organisations, such as the Rail Forum.

Lonsdale House is currently undergoing a major refurbishment to accommodate the latest cutting-edge facilities for business and research, as well as adaptable conference and meeting spaces and a flexible hot desk area.

Matthew Montague Architects has been appointed to work on the revamp of the building.

Adam Doyle, the university’s head of business engagement and employability, said: “Co-location is intended to ensure a solutions-based support approach, no matter what size the business.

“In addition to the large organisations that are our strategic partners, around 99.9% of British businesses are SMEs.

“Supporting them is crucial to the growth of the wider economy.

“Having access to this range of services, advice and expertise in one place will improve the speed with which business owners can have their questions answered and receive the support they need.”

Professor Mitchell added: “In addition to the benefit to businesses, this collaboration provides opportunities for our students and graduates to engage in placements, internships and mentoring and to showcase their talent to potential employers.”

To find out more about the business support services offered by the University of Derby visit https://www.derby.ac.uk/business-services/ .