Birmingham technology hub opens applications for support programme

A technology hub based in Birmingham has opened applications for a smart cities incubator programme to help technology startups.

The programme, which is being set up by Innovation Birmingham, will enable tech start-ups to receive support and mentoring. The Serendip Smart Cities Incubator will be located in the new £8 million iCentrum building.

Businesses will have access to office space and a presentation auditorium, and will have the opportunity to attend workshops and network events. Startups will also receive mentoring with commercial partners and work closely with them to develop their products.

Opportunity

Innovation Birmingham CEO Dr David Hardman MBE commented on the programme, stating that the company is “thrilled” to be working with corporate partners to deliver the Serendip Smart Cities incubator, creating a “unique facility” in the UK.

“This challenge-led programme will provide a fantastic opportunity for UK startups to work directly with established commercial partners and benefit from their longevity and expertise,” he said.

Hardman outlined the benefits that the programme will have, stating that it is “very exciting” for the region and will help to “drive the city’s reputation as a national centre for digital excellence.” He added that it will also create many high-value jobs in high-growth businesses, which will have “fantastic economic benefits” for Birmingham.

Plans

In addition to the Serendip Smart Cities incubator, Innovation Business also has plans to create four more Serendip incubators in other areas of tech, including Digital Health, Intelligent Mobility, the Internet of Things, and an additional incubator that has not yet been named.

The incubators will be delivered in collaboration with the West Midlands Academic Health Science Network, Centro and the Transport Systems Catapult, RWE npower and Barclays.