Hi-tech business gets a cash boost
Apr 16 2009 by Sam Wood, The Journal
Its latest investment will be used for the provision of support for software entrepreneurs, mentoring, finance, facilities and services.
It will provide dedicated premises for new and growing software companies to co-ordinate and bring together a mix of skills.
BIC chief executive, Paul McEldon, said: “We recognise that the software sector is a competitive market and we need effective marketing and business support for enterprise to reflect this.
“We also want to stimulate more interest in innovation and technology and raise the aspirations of young people in disadvantaged areas to work in the software sector. Our dedicated software incubator will utilise 360 square metres of space to let, providing up to eight separate units as well as communal areas. Businesses locating there will also have access to all of our training and meeting facilities.”
One North East head of European and skills strategy Lesley Calder, said: “The BIC has an enviable track record as the birthplace and home of hundreds of businesses.
“They know how to support businesses in a range of sectors, but in particular those which are innovative and need the right technical environment.
“Support from the European Union and the agency is ensuring vital infrastructure, first class business accommodation and communications connectivity to fulfil the growing demands of the software industry.” Paul Watson, Leader of Sunderland Council, said: “Sunderland City Council is delighted to be one of the key partners in the Sunderland Software City initiative and extremely pleased to see the North East Business and Innovation Centre in Sunderland secure this important investment for the city.
“We continue to work closely with ONE, Sunderland University and all public and private partners in doing everything we possibly can to further develop the city's new and thriving software economy.
“The council has shown its commitment to the Software City initiative through investments such as the Evolve Business Centre at Rainton Bridge South Business Park, and we are committed to continued development of the city's information technology sector.”
