WHY LOUGHBOROUGH UNIVERSITY?

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Loughborough University is committed to regional wealth creation and its track record in establishing successful start-up companies demonstrates its 'can do' attitude in the field of innovation. The applied nature of the University's research and its excellent links with industry make Loughborough the ideal location for the Innovation Centre.

WHO ARE THE PARTNERS BEHIND LOUGHBOROUGH INNOVATION CENTRE?

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Loughborough Innovation Centre is a partnership between Loughborough University, Loughborough Advanced Technology Initiative (LATI) and Charnwood Borough Council, with funding from the East Midlands Development Agency (emda). On-site support is available from Business Link / Small Business Service; East Midlands Business Angels; and Connect Midlands.

The Centre also forms part of the wider East Midlands Incubation Network (EMIN).

HOW SECURE IS THE SITE?

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All units within the Centre are alarmed and access to the building is via swipecards issued to tenants. All vehicles entering and leaving the security patrolled University Campus must pass through barriers that are activated by electronic 'swipe' cards. All visitors report to the Security Gatehouse, which is staffed 24 hours a day. Should specific tenant companies require them, additional security measures may be installed in liaison with the University's Security Manager. A large, well lit car park adjacent to the Centre is available for tenants and their visitors.

HOW IS THE CENTRE MANAGED?

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There is a dedicated Centre Manager who is responsible for co-ordinating a comprehensive mentoring and incubation service for all tenants.

WHAT INCUBATION SERVICES ARE ON OFFER?

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The following services are available to support companies right through their development from pre-start up to graduation from the Centre:

• Mentoring, information provision, and sign-posting to other services.
• Access to specialist advice including legal, contractual and intellectual property advice.
• Assistance with applying for start-up and development funds.
• Business planning support, networking, training, mediation.
• Receptionist services.
• Access to University expertise, and membership of Loughborough Enterprise Club (free membership) and LATI (Leading Advanced Technology and Innovation, membership from £25/year)

WHAT FACILITIES / SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE ON SITE?

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• Business rates *
• Central reception *
• Broadband internet *
• Telephone points
• Meeting rooms *
• Conference room
• Plasma screen and data projector
• Fax and photocopier
• Catering i.e. kitchenettes *
• Security / alarm on main building *
• Rent-a-desk / workshop / lab space
• Adjacent car parking
• Adjacent bicycle parking *
• Heating, cleaning and lighting of communal areas *
• Repairs and renewals *
• Centre management team *
• 24 / 7 access *

* denotes included in monthly rental fee

WHAT TYPE OF COMPANY CAN APPLY?

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As well as hosting University spin-outs, the Centre seeks applications from all regional and national, new and early stage companies with the potential for high growth. Any innovative high growth company can apply for tenancy, however those with high tech capabilities will have an advantage.

HOW ARE TENANTS SELECTED?

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Through assessment of applications and interviews. Priority will be given to companies who fulfill the following criteria:

• University spin outs
• Start up companies researching and developing products
• Young technology / knowledge based companies of one to five years' standing
• Service or manufacture to support any of the above
• Prototype or low volume manufacture companies
• Scientific product or market testing
• Companies, which have, or will benefit from Loughborough University collaboration

HOW LONG ARE COMPANIES EXPECTED TO OCCUPY THE CENTRE?

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Companies will be given full support throughout their residency to help them to mature to a stage where they can be fully independent, at which point they would be expected to graduate. Graduation to independent premises will be based on criteria such as trading success and growth. Companies will be fully supported in their search for follow-on accommodation and relevant second stage funding.

WHAT IS THE NOTICE PERIOD?

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Tenancies are flexible, with one month's notice either side.