Lincoln Sparkhouse celebrates 10 years of business support

A start up business incubation centre in Lincoln is celebrating 10 years supporting new companies in the region

The University of Lincoln’s business centre, Sparkhouse, opened in 2003 on the Brayford Pool campus, and has since helped 230 companies get started, creating 370 jobs.

Tenants have contributed £2 million to the local economy.

As well as providing physical and virtual space, Sparkhouse provides business mentoring, workshops and informal advice.

Anyone with a creative, technology-based and innovative idea can receive help from the centre, with current tenants including software developers, graphic design agencies, online news media, film-makers, photographers, and Stonebow Media, publishers of The Lincolnite.

Director of Research & Enterprise at the University Andrew Stevenson said: “The first 10 years of Sparkhouse have been a huge success story.

“We have provided an environment where innovative ideas can take root and grow into successful businesses which serve as a catalyst for local economic growth.

“Sparkhouse is a gateway for businesses of all sectors and sizes to access the talent and expertise we have here at the University. That could be finding the right graduate to fill a particular vacancy, or commissioning research from our world-class academics.”

Sparkhouse held a special event on Thursday with previous and current tenants, partners and staff to celebrate the occasion.