University of Warwick Science Park's Newsletter
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Welcome to the Autumn Edition of SPARK
2025 has already proven to be another remarkable year for the UWSP community. Our Business Innovation Centre in Binley celebrated its 25th Anniversary and summer networking events brought everyone together in a shared celebration and purpose to deliver impact, innovation, and inspiration.
While the heatwaves made headlines, it was the energy of our community that truly shone. From major milestones of 90%+ occupancy at most of our centres, to the return of former tenants Aluflam UK and Rimac Energy, and the launch of Warwick Agri-Tech, this summer has been packed with achievements worth celebrating.
Our innovation centres have been buzzing with activity—from workshops and founder meetups to investor showcases—demonstrating our ongoing commitment to nurturing talent and driving inclusive growth. Nowhere was this more obvious than at the Venture Centre which welcomed the return of the Loaf & Co café by popular demand.
Support for early-stage ventures was strengthened by the extension of Business Ready to 2026, the continued vibrancy of our Ignite Alumni Network, and the increased membership of the Business Lounge we launched in Spring.
Finally, with the future in mind, sustainability also took centre stage with graduate Mihir Rathi leading a bold new strategy to futureproof our estate and to engage our community in doing this.
With so much momentum, the future looks brighter than ever!
Mark Tock, Chief Operations Officer
University of Warwick Science Park
Business Innovation Centre marks 25th anniversary
Over 200 cutting-edge companies have called the Business Innovation Centre in Binley – part of the University of Warwick Science Park – their home since it was opened in 2000.
Fast-forward 25 years and there has been a fantastic mix of long-standing and new tenants taking occupation at the centre, meaning the building in Harry Weston Road will achieve 90 per cent occupancy within the next month.
Business Ready programme extended to 2026 to help more Warwickshire businesses
A highly successful business support scheme which advises Warwickshire firms with high growth potential will be able to support even more in the county after being extended for another year.
Global Growth Programme brings Swedish manufacturing expertise to Warwick
A lean manufacturing specialist that uses technology to improve business performance originally from Sweden is aiming to crack the UK market after settling into a new base in Warwick through an initiative to help overseas companies find success in the country.
BEAS – Helping Businesses cut Energy Costs
The Business Energy Advice Service (BEAS) is a government-funded pilot programme designed to help businesses reduce energy costs and drive growth through free energy assessments and 50% match-funded grants.
The importance of a competent professional in your R&D tax claims
Understand HMRC’s definition of a ‘competent professional’ in R&D tax claims. Learn the key requirements, evidence needed, and how Edwards Chartered Accountants can support your claim.
Much-loved cafe returns to Venture Centre by popular demand
A much-loved café has made a welcome return to a leading Midlands science park, following overwhelming demand from businesses based on-site.
Business students’ bright ideas having major impact on Science Park
Bright ideas from business students are continuing to have a positive impact on a leading Midlands science park after a placement scheme was extended following great success last year.
New pilot facility to drive agricultural innovation
Warwick Agri-Tech, established in 2022, is a pioneering initiative that brings together the expertise of two leading University of Warwick departments – WMG and the School of Life Sciences. By integrating advanced engineering with plant science, the initiative aims to shape the future of agriculture.
Dirk and Jane celebrate 25 years at the University of Warwick Science Park
This year marks a special milestone at the University of Warwick Science Park as colleagues Dirk Schaefer and Jane Talbot both celebrate 25 years of service.
Overcoming barriers when expanding business internationally
For many business owners, expanding business internationally can be an ultimate goal. It opens the door to fruitful new markets, a diverse new talent pool and, of course, increased revenue potential. However, the road to international growth is rarely smooth.
The Quiet Power of Co-working Communities
The working world has changed since the pandemic in 2020, and our ideas of networking are slightly different to what they were before. Usually, we think of networking as crowded industry events or endless scrolling through LinkedIn, but this is no longer the case.
Ignite Business Lounge Coffee Morning
📆 25 September: Meet fellow founders and local tech businesses while experiencing the energy and flexibility of the Ignite Business Lounge, and have a coffee on us.
The Basics of Email Marketing: A Guide for Small Businesses
📆 26 September: Join this free, 90-minute Business Ready webinar to learn how to cut through the noise, giving you a clear, practical introduction to email marketing for small businesses.
Organisational Excellence Webinar
📆 02 October: Join this free Business Ready webinar to get an introduction to the subject of 'Organisation Excellence', reasons why this is important and an explanation of best practice models.
Festival of Entrepreneurs - NEC Birmingham
📆 08 - 09 October: Learn how Britain’s top entrepreneurs built their businesses, raised capital, and reached new markets — plus meet the experts who can help you do the same.
Rugby Borough Council - Business Engagement Event
📆 09 October: Connect with local businesses through workshops, panels, and speed networking, share ideas, spark collaboration, and create growth opportunities together.
Go West to the USA or Go East to Japan!
📆 15 October: An afternoon at UWSP exploring fresh opportunities for UK businesses in USA and Japan, bringing together experts in foreign direct investment and market entry strategy.
